Lunch & Dinner

Skillet Seared Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce – Recipes From Chef

Name: Skillet Seared Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce – Recipes From Chef
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil – for searing, bringing a rich flavor.; 2 garlic cloves, finely minced – adds aromatic depth.; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – for subtle heat that complements the salmon nicely.; 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken stock – provides a flavorful base.; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice – adds brightness and acidity.; 1/2 teaspoon pure honey – balances acidity with a hint of sweetness.; 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard – enhances depth in the sauce.; 3 tablespoons 3 plus 1 teaspoon unsalted butter, cut into tablespoon-sized cubes – creates a silky finish.; 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley leaves – for a burst of herbal freshness.; Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper – to season to taste.; 4 boneless, skinless salmon fillets, approximately 1 inch thick – fresh or thawed

Rosa Crumley July 27, 2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 20 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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When indulging in skillet-seared salmon with a garlic lemon butter sauce, the decision of what to pair with this delightful dish can elevate your experience. On the side, consider serving fluffy quinoa or a refreshing green salad. The lightness of a simple arugula salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar perfectly complements the richness of the salmon.

For a heartier option, roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts bring out the flavors beautifully. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc brings a refreshing zing that matches perfectly with lemony dishes.

You could also opt for wild rice, whose nuttiness pairs conceptually with the buttery sauce, completing your meal. So, let’s dive into the main attraction—the recipe itself.

What is Skillet Seared Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce?

At its core, skillet-seared salmon with garlic lemon butter sauce is about taking a few quality ingredients and transforming them into something extraordinary. Think of the salmon as your canvas, the garlic as the dynamic brushstroke, and the lemon butter as the vibrant palette that ties it all together.

The texture of the salmon, with its crispy edges and tender center, combined with the richness of the sauce, makes this dish truly remarkable.

What Makes This Recipe Different?

You might wonder: what does this recipe offer beyond the typical lemon butter sauces paired with salmon? It’s all about balance. Besides the classic elements of garlic and lemon, I have nuanced this recipe with a touch of Dijon mustard and crushed red pepper.

This gives a bright kick while maintaining an elegant flavor profile. I’ve tested many variations, and this combination ensures every bite brings delight and satisfaction.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Unlike other recipes that may drown the salmon in overpowering sauces, this one enhances the fish’s natural flavors without overshadowing them. It’s all about harmony in cooking, and this recipe exemplifies that.

How Does It Taste?

This dish is a flavor explosion! Imagine your taste buds dancing as the rich buttery base melds with the freshness of lemon and garlic. The salmon is flaky and tender, and the sauce has that perfect balance of savory, bright, and just a hint of heat. One bite will have you dreaming of future gatherings, where you serve it to adoring family and friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish:

2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil – for searing, bringing a rich flavor.
2 garlic cloves, finely minced – adds aromatic depth.
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – for subtle heat that complements the salmon nicely.
1/4 cup low-sodium chicken stock – provides a flavorful base.
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice – adds brightness and acidity.
1/2 teaspoon pure honey – balances acidity with a hint of sweetness.
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard – enhances depth in the sauce.
3 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon unsalted butter, cut into tablespoon-sized cubes – creates a silky finish.
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley leaves – for a burst of herbal freshness.
Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper – to season to taste.
4 (6 oz) boneless, skinless salmon fillets, approximately 1 inch thick – fresh or thawed.

How to Make Skillet Seared Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This is crucial for achieving a nice sear. Season both sides with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Set aside while you heat your skillet.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

In a large skillet, add the olive oil and heat over medium-high heat until shimmering. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Sear the Salmon

Carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Sear without moving them for about 4-5 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and releases easily from the pan.

Step 4: Flip the Fillets

Using a spatula, gently flip the fillets over. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the salmon is cooked through but still moist in the center. Remove the salmon from the skillet and keep warm on a plate.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Add the chicken stock, lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard to the skillet. Stir well, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 7: Add the Butter

Turn the heat down to low and begin adding the butter cubes one at a time, stirring until fully melted and combined. This gives the sauce a creamy texture and rich flavor.

Step 8: Finish and Garnish

Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes and chopped parsley. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. Carefully pour the sauce over the salmon fillets to serve.

Tips & Tricks for Making Skillet Seared Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Choose Fresh Salmon: Always opt for the freshest salmon available. Look for firm, bright fillets without any discoloration.
Pat the Fillets Dry: Moisture is the enemy of a good sear. Make sure the skin is dry before placing it in the skillet.
Use a Heavy Skillet: A heavy skillet helps with even cooking and heat distribution, which is key for perfectly searing salmon.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Let the butter and any other ingredients come to room temperature for better mixing and incorporation into your sauce.
Adjust the Spice: If you love heat, feel free to increase the crushed red pepper. Alternatively, you can leave it out for a milder dish.

Nutrition Information

A serving of this skillet-seared salmon with garlic lemon butter sauce contains approximately:

Calories: 320
Protein: 34g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 2g
Sodium: 200mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

How Do I Store This Dish?

Storing skillet-seared salmon is easy. Allow the salmon and sauce to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. This can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

What Other Substitutes Can You Use?

Fatty Fish: Trout can be used instead of salmon for a different flavor profile. It’s rich and delicious.
Butter Alternatives: Coconut oil can be swapped for butter for a dairy-free option. It adds a touch of sweetness.
Chicken Stock: Vegetable broth works well if you’re looking to keep it vegetarian or vegan.
Fresh Herbs: Instead of parsley, consider using dill for a fresh, aromatic flavor that pairs well with fish.
Lemon Juice: For an added twist, experiment with lime juice, providing a new yet zesty flavor.

Best Skillet Seared Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Conclusion

The journey of cooking adds soul to mealtime. This skillet-seared salmon with garlic lemon butter sauce encapsulates the ease and pleasure of home cooking. It’s quick, satisfying, and packed with flavors that will echo in your culinary adventures. Trust me—it doesn’t get better than this. Fired up about cooking? Grab those ingredients, and let’s get sizzling! Your taste buds will thank you.

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Skillet Seared Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce – Recipes From Chef

Author: Rosa Crumley Cuisine: Mediterranean Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 10 mins Total Time 20 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 320 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Ah, salmon. It’s like the gym coach of the dinner table—lean, fit, and always ready to deliver deliciousness. The recipe I want to share with you today merges the savory wisdom of traditional Italian cuisine with straightforward cooking techniques.

Imagine perfectly seared salmon fillets, kissed by garlic and enveloped in a luscious lemon butter sauce. It’s foolproof, flavorful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re serving a busy weeknight dinner or preparing for a small gathering, this skillet-seared salmon comes through every time. What’s more, it takes minimal effort without sacrificing flavor, making it the ideal dish for anyone looking to impress without the stress.