Go Back
Homemade Pan-Seared Salmon photo

Pan-Seared Salmon

This Pan-Seared Salmon is a quick and elegant dish! Crispy skin, tender flesh, and minimal ingredients make it a weeknight favorite.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients:
  • 4 fillets salmon skin-on, about 6 ounces each
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly cracked
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • to taste lemon wedges for serving

Equipment

  • Non-stick skillet
  • Spatula
  • Fish spatula (optional)
  • Meat thermometer (optional)
  • Plate

Method
 

Instructions:
  1. Step 1: Prepare the Salmon - Pat each salmon fillet dry with paper towels and season both sides with kosher salt and black pepper.
  2. Step 2: Heat the Skillet - In a non-stick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Step 3: Sear the Salmon - Carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes without moving.
  4. Step 4: Flip and Finish Cooking - Flip the fillets gently and cook on the flesh side for an additional 3-4 minutes until desired doneness.
  5. Step 5: Serve - Remove the salmon from the skillet and let it rest for a minute; serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

  • Ensure salmon is at room temperature before cooking for even results.
  • Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary.
  • Adjust cooking time for thicker fillets.
  • Try flavored olive oils for added taste.