Easy Golden Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon
A quick and flavorful salmon recipe with a perfectly crisp golden crust and tender, flaky interior. Finished with fresh lemon juice and subtle garlic notes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or elegant dinners.
Equipment
- large skillet cast iron or stainless steel preferred
- spatula for flipping
- paper towels for drying salmon
- knife
- cutting board
Ingredients
- 4 salmon steaks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 fresh lemon (juiced)
- lemon wedges (for serving)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Pat the salmon steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and help achieve a golden crust.
- Season both sides of the salmon with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder evenly.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil until it shimmers.
- Place salmon in the skillet and cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes to form a crispy golden crust.
- Flip the salmon and cook for another 3–4 minutes until cooked through and flaky.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon while still in the pan to enhance flavor.
- Remove from pan and let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes to retain juices.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
Pat salmon dry before cooking for the best crust. Use a hot pan and avoid moving the fish too early. Fresh lemon juice is key for bright flavor. You can substitute olive oil with avocado oil or use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a stronger taste.
Nutrition
Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 34gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 320mgPotassium: 700mgVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg
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