Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon (Skillet)

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

  1. Prep the salmon
    • Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
    • Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat the skillet
    • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Add olive oil + 1 tbsp butter and let it melt and shimmer.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Finish
    • Return salmon to the skillet.
    • Spoon sauce over the fillets and cook 1–2 minutes, until flaky.
    • Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
  6. 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

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