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Easy One-Pan Crispy Lemon Garlic Salmon Recipe for Perfect Dinner

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A simple and quick one-pan salmon recipe featuring crispy skin, bright lemon, and garlic butter for a flavorful and wholesome dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 salmon fillets, skin-on, about 6 ounces (170g) each
  • 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice and zest of 1 medium lemon
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh herbs (thyme or parsley), optional for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels, especially the skin side. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let rest at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and melted butter. Set aside.
  3. Heat a cast iron or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Heat until shimmering but not smoking (about 2-3 minutes).
  4. Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the hot pan. Press lightly with a spatula for about 10 seconds to prevent curling. Cook without moving for 5-6 minutes until skin is deeply golden and crispy.
  5. Carefully flip the salmon fillets and cook the flesh side for 2 minutes to get a light sear.
  6. Pour the lemon garlic butter mixture into the pan. Tilt the pan and baste the salmon repeatedly with the sauce for 1-2 minutes to infuse flavor and keep moist.
  7. Check doneness by flaking the salmon with a fork; it should be moist inside. Cook an additional minute if needed but avoid overcooking.
  8. Serve immediately, spooning any pan sauce over the salmon and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Pat salmon dry thoroughly to ensure crispy skin. Use a hot pan and do not move the salmon while searing skin-side down. Add garlic in the butter mixture after searing to avoid burning. If skin sticks, wait longer for it to release naturally. Fresh lemon zest is important for vibrant flavor. For thicker fillets, finish cooking in a 400°F oven for 3-5 minutes after searing.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon, lemon garlic salmon, one-pan salmon, crispy salmon skin, easy salmon recipe, healthy dinner, quick dinner

Find it online: https://breezybake.com/easy-one-pan-crispy-lemon-garlic-salmon-recipe-for-perfect-dinner/