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Crispy Pan Seared Salmon Recipe Easy Lemon Dill for Tender Flavorful Fish

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A quick and easy pan seared salmon recipe featuring a crispy skin and tender, flavorful fish enhanced with a fresh lemon dill sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz / 170 g each), skin-on, preferably wild-caught
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • Fresh lemon juice from 1 medium lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
  • Thin lemon slices for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried dill)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon dry on both sides using paper towels, about 2 minutes.
  2. Season both sides of the fillets with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
  3. Preheat a non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes.
  4. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter to the skillet. Wait until butter foams and oil shimmers but does not smoke.
  5. Place the fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Press gently with a spatula for 10 seconds to prevent curling.
  6. Cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crisp.
  7. Flip the fillets carefully using a fish spatula and cook for another 2-3 minutes for medium doneness (internal temperature about 125°F / 52°C). For well-done, cook an additional minute.
  8. Lower heat to medium-low. Add minced garlic to the pan and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  9. Remove from heat, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon, and sprinkle chopped dill on top.
  10. Transfer fillets to a warm plate, garnish with thin lemon slices, and let rest for 1 minute before serving.

Notes

Patting the salmon dry is crucial for crispy skin. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Use medium-high heat for best results and resist flipping too soon to avoid tearing the skin. Rest the fish before serving to keep it juicy. For dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut or avocado oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon, pan seared salmon, crispy salmon, lemon dill salmon, quick salmon recipe, healthy fish recipe, easy dinner, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/crispy-pan-seared-salmon-recipe-easy-lemon-dill-for-tender-flavorful-fish/