Description
This Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce is a simple yet elegant dish perfect for any occasion. Featuring perfectly seared salmon fillets topped with a creamy, zesty lemon butter sauce, this meal is quick, delicious, and ideal for a weeknight dinner or a fancy feast!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine for added flavor)
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon:
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Salmon:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on) and cook for 4–5 minutes until the skin is crispy and the edges are golden brown.
- Flip the fillets and cook for another 2–3 minutes, or until cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine) and lemon juice, stirring to deglaze the pan. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the salmon to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the fillets to coat. Heat for 1 minute to warm through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- Pair with steamed asparagus, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- Use fresh dill instead of parsley for a different herbaceous flavor.