Description
Crispy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside—this Crispy Garlic Butter Salmon is the ultimate seafood dish! Seared to perfection and drizzled with a rich, garlicky butter sauce, this recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this salmon dish is guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 2 (6-ounce) fresh salmon fillets (skin-on)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Salmon
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and lemon zest.
2️⃣ Heat the Skillet
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3️⃣ Sear the Salmon
- Place the salmon skin-side down in the pan.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes, gently pressing with a spatula for even crispiness.
- Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the flesh is golden brown and cooked through.
4️⃣ Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes.
5️⃣ Finish and Serve
- Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the crispy salmon.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides!
Notes
Pat the salmon dry before cooking to remove excess moisture for crispier skin.
✔️ Use high heat for a perfect golden sear.
✔️ Don’t overcook – Salmon is best when tender and flaky inside.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: American