Here’s a simple, foolproof way to turn those ingredients into a Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon that’s juicy and restaurant-worthy 🍋🧈🐟
Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon (Skillet)
Serves: 4
Cook time: ~10–12 minutes
Instructions
- Prep the salmon
- Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
- Heat the skillet
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add olive oil + 1 tbsp butter and let it melt and shimmer.
- Sear the salmon
- Place salmon skin-side down (if using skin-on).
- Cook 4–5 minutes without moving, until golden and crispy.
- Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes, until almost cooked through.
- Transfer salmon to a plate.
- Make the garlic butter sauce
- Lower heat to medium.
- Add remaining 2 tbsp butter to the same skillet.
- Stir in garlic and sauté for 30 seconds (don’t let it brown).
- Add lemon juice + lemon zest, stirring to combine.
- Finish
- Return salmon to the skillet.
- Spoon sauce over the fillets and cook 1–2 minutes, until flaky.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately
- Spoon extra sauce over the top for maximum flavor.
Pro Tips
- 🔥 Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.
- 🧂 If using salted butter, reduce added salt slightly.
- 🍷 Deglaze with a splash of white wine before adding lemon for extra depth.
Great Pairings
- Roasted asparagus or green beans
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Rice or orzo with herbs
If you want, I can also:
- Convert this to oven-baked or air fryer
- Add a honey-garlic or creamy version
- Adjust for meal prep or keto