Ready in: 20 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Pan-searing · Storage: Up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
Perfectly seared lemon pepper salmon is quick to make and delivers a burst of flavor, making it a delightful dish for cozy holiday gatherings.
As the chilly winds of fall sweep through New York City, I find myself gravitating toward cozy dinners that warm not only my belly but also my heart. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, I'm always on the lookout for simple yet elegant dishes to impress my family and friends during holiday gatherings. One recipe that never fails to delight is this Pan-Seared Lemon Pepper Salmon. It's quick to prepare, bursting with flavor, and captures the essence of seasonal eating.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful and elegant, sure to impress your family and friends.
- Healthy and packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
- Succulent lemon and pepper flavors that brighten the dish.
- Minimal cleanup required; uses just one skillet!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Pan-Seared Lemon Pepper Salmon:
Salmon and Seasonings
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Pan-Seared Lemon Pepper Salmon (Step-by-Step)
This dish is simple to make and is sure to become a favorite!
Step 1: Prep the Salmon
Begin by placing your salmon fillets skin-side down on a clean cutting board. Pat them dry with a paper towel. This is essential for achieving that beautiful, crispy skin when they hit the hot skillet.
Step 2: Season Generously
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and minced garlic. This fragrant seasoning mix not only brings out the best in the salmon, but it also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
In a 10-inch cast-iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Wait for the oil to shimmer; this indicates it's hot enough for searing. You want that golden crust, so be patient!
Step 4: Sear the Salmon
Gently place the salmon fillets in the skillet skin-side down. Press down lightly with a spatula for an even sear. Hear that sizzle? That's music to my ears! Cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and releases easily from the pan.
Step 5: Flip and Finish
Carefully turn each fillet over and add the lemon juice to the pan. It will create a tangy sauce that mingles beautifully with the salmon. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. You want to see a slight jiggle in the center for perfect doneness.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat, and garnish the salmon with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, perhaps a simple roasted vegetable medley or a light arugula salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Drying Step: Not patting the salmon dry can result in steam and soggy skin rather than a crispy texture.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too many fillets at once can lower the pan's temperature, leading to uneven cooking. Stick to 2-4 fillets depending on the size of your skillet.
- Not Waiting for the Oil to Heat: Placing salmon in an inadequately heated pan won't give you that coveted sear. Make sure it's hot!
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Choose the Right Cut: Opt for skin-on salmon fillets, preferably of a wild-caught variety for superior flavor.
- Invest in a Good Skillet: A quality cast-iron skillet is invaluable for achieving perfect searing and maintaining heat.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Salmon cooks quickly; keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking and losing moisture.
Variations
- Replace lemon with lime for a different citrus flavor.
- Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the seasoning mix for a tangy kick.
- Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or thyme instead of parsley for a unique twist.
- Top with a mango salsa for a tropical twist.
How to Serve
- Pair with a simple roasted vegetable medley.
- Serve alongside a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- Accompany with quinoa or rice pilaf for a hearty meal.
- Garnish with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: The seasoning mix can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the salmon in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through; avoid using the microwave to maintain the texture.
- Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but cooked salmon can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Testing this recipe reinforced the importance of concentrating on technique. A hot pan and proper seasoning make all the difference! Each bite of this lemon pepper salmon is a reminder that simple ingredients, prepared well, can transform any meal into a memorable experience-especially during the festive season.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~350 calories · 34g protein · 0g carbs · 22g fat
Recipe by:
Quick Pan-Seared Lemon Pepper Salmon
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by placing your salmon fillets skin-side down on a clean cutting board. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and minced garlic.
- In a cast-iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Gently place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes.
- Carefully turn each fillet over, add the lemon juice, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until done.
- Remove from heat, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking for the best results.
2. What can I serve with Pan-Seared Lemon Pepper Salmon?
This salmon pairs wonderfully with sides like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh arugula salad.
3. How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?
The salmon is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork, usually after about 7-9 minutes of cooking in total.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the salmon in advance and reheat it gently in the oven to maintain its texture.
5. What type of salmon is best for this recipe?
Skin-on salmon fillets, preferably wild-caught, are ideal for the best flavor and texture.
