Let me tell you, pan fried salmon with garlic butter sauce is one of those dishes that never fails to impress! It’s simple yet so flavorful, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or even when I have friends over. I remember the first time I whipped this up – my kitchen filled with that heavenly aroma of garlic sizzling in butter, and I couldn’t wait to dig in! The salmon gets that perfect crispy skin while staying tender and juicy inside. And the best part? It all comes together in just about 20 minutes! Trust me, this dish will become a staple in your home, and you’ll be craving it again and again. Ready to dive into this deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients List
- 2 salmon fillets (fresh, skin-on for that crispy texture!)
- 2 tablespoons butter (unsalted, because we want to control the saltiness)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (the more, the merrier if you’re a garlic fan!)
- 1 lemon, juiced (freshly squeezed for that zingy brightness)
- Salt, to taste (I usually go for a good pinch)
- Pepper, to taste (freshly cracked adds a nice kick)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (it adds a pop of color and freshness!)
How to Prepare Pan Fried Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce
- First, season your salmon fillets generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This is where the flavor starts to build, so don’t be shy!
- Now, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Let it melt completely, swirling it around the pan to coat the surface. You want a nice, hot skillet to achieve that crispy skin!
- Once the butter is bubbling (but not browned!), toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant. Careful, it can burn quickly, and burnt garlic is a big no-no!
- Next, place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. You should hear that delightful sizzle! Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes without moving them. This is key for getting that skin beautifully crispy.
- After the skin is nice and crisp, gently flip the fillets using a spatula. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, basting them with the garlic butter in the pan for extra flavor. You’ll know they’re done when they’re opaque and flake easily with a fork.
- Just before serving, drizzle fresh lemon juice over the top. This brightens everything up! Serve your salmon garnished with chopped parsley for that fresh finish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Packed with flavor thanks to the garlic butter sauce that elevates the salmon.
- Healthy option with omega-3-rich salmon that’s great for your heart.
- One-pan cooking means less cleanup—yay for easy cooking!
- Impressive enough for entertaining but simple enough for everyday meals.
- Versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.
Tips for Success
To ensure your pan fried salmon turns out perfectly every time, here are some tips that I’ve learned along the way! First, make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the salmon—this is crucial for achieving that crispy skin. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan; if you’re cooking more than two fillets, do it in batches to avoid steaming them.
It’s also important to let the salmon rest for a minute after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist and flavorful. And remember, every stove is different, so keep an eye on the cooking time! If you notice the garlic starting to brown too quickly, lower the heat a bit. Lastly, don’t skip the fresh lemon juice before serving—it really brightens up the dish! Happy cooking!
Variations
- Herb-Infused Butter: Try mixing in fresh herbs like thyme or dill with your butter for a fragrant twist. Just toss them in with the garlic for a burst of flavor!
- Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the garlic butter while it sizzles. It’ll add a delightful spicy note to the dish!
- Citrus Twist: Switch it up by using lime or orange juice instead of lemon. Each citrus gives a unique flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with salmon.
- Asian-Inspired: Add a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil to the garlic butter for an Asian flair. Serve with steamed rice and sautéed veggies for a delicious fusion meal!
- Vegetable Sides: Instead of just serving salmon, sauté some seasonal veggies like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers in the same pan after removing the fish. They’ll soak up that yummy garlic butter flavor!
- Different Proteins: Don’t limit yourself to salmon! This garlic butter sauce works beautifully with other fish like trout or even chicken breasts if you’re in the mood for something different.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to pairing sides with my pan fried salmon with garlic butter sauce, the possibilities are endless! I absolutely love serving it with a light and refreshing salad, maybe a simple arugula salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette. It complements the richness of the salmon beautifully!
Another fantastic option is to whip up some roasted or steamed vegetables. Think bright green asparagus or vibrant zucchini, lightly seasoned to keep the focus on that delicious garlic butter sauce. You could even sauté some spinach with garlic for an extra punch!
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, serve the salmon over a bed of fluffy quinoa or creamy mashed potatoes. Both options soak up the garlic butter sauce wonderfully and make for a satisfying meal. And of course, a side of buttery garlic bread never hurts—who can resist that?
Lastly, consider a light grain salad with farro or couscous mixed with herbs and lemon. It adds a delightful texture and keeps everything fresh and light! No matter what you choose, these sides will elevate your salmon dish to new heights. Enjoy!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have leftovers of your delicious pan fried salmon with garlic butter sauce, you’re in luck! Storing it properly ensures that you can enjoy those tasty flavors again. First, let the salmon cool down to room temperature, but don’t leave it out too long—no more than two hours, okay? Once it’s cool, wrap the salmon fillets tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Now, when you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, let’s talk reheating! The best way to warm up the salmon is in a skillet over low heat. Just add a tiny bit of butter or olive oil to the pan to keep it moist. Heat it gently for about 4-5 minutes, flipping once, until it’s warmed through. This method helps retain that flaky texture and keeps the garlic butter sauce intact.
If you’re in a rush, you can pop it in the microwave, but be careful! Use a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely (to prevent it from drying out), and heat on medium for about 30 seconds at a time until warmed through. Just remember, reheating in the microwave can sometimes make the salmon a little rubbery, so I prefer the skillet method whenever possible. Enjoy your leftovers!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying my pan fried salmon with garlic butter sauce, it’s nice to have an idea of the nutritional benefits! Each serving of this delightful dish typically contains about 350 calories, with around 30 grams of protein, making it a fantastic option for a healthy meal. It’s also rich in healthy fats, thanks to the salmon and butter.
However, keep in mind that nutritional values can vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so the precise numbers might differ a bit. For example, if you decide to add more butter or adjust the portion sizes, those changes will impact the overall nutrition. Always feel free to estimate these values based on what you have on hand! It’s all about enjoying great food while also being mindful of what goes into your body. Happy cooking and eating!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. This will help ensure even cooking and keep that delicious flavor intact. Pat it dry with a paper towel before seasoning for the best results!
What can I substitute for butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use olive oil or ghee instead of butter. Both will still give you a lovely flavor, and olive oil adds a nice depth to the garlic butter sauce! Just remember to adjust the heat as needed since olive oil has a lower smoke point than butter.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
While pan fried salmon is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time! Season the salmon and chop the garlic and parsley, then store everything in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just remember to cook it right before serving for that crispy skin!
What should I do if the garlic burns?
Oops! If your garlic starts to burn, don’t panic! Quickly remove the salmon from the pan, lower the heat, and wipe the pan out with a paper towel to get rid of any burnt bits. Then add fresh butter and garlic to start again—it’ll still be delicious!
How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?
You’ll know your pan fried salmon is cooked perfectly when it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach about 145°F (63°C). If you have a meat thermometer, it’s a great tool to have handy for ensuring it’s just right!
For more information on the health benefits of salmon, you can check out this article.
To learn more about cooking techniques, visit Serious Eats.
Print
Pan Fried Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce in 20 Minutes!
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Pan fried salmon with garlic butter sauce is a simple and delicious dish.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter.
- Once the butter is melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy.
- Flip the fillets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Drizzle lemon juice over the salmon before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley.
Notes
- Use fresh salmon for best flavor.
- Adjust garlic amount to your preference.
- Serve with vegetables or rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: pan fried salmon, garlic butter sauce, salmon recipe
