Print

Crispy Pan-Seared Salmon Recipe with Lemon Butter and Capers

crispy pan-seared salmon - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy pan-seared salmon recipe featuring crispy skin and a bright, buttery lemon caper sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

  • Salmon fillets (skin-on, about 6 ounces / 170 grams each)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • Olive oil (1-2 tablespoons)
  • Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons)
  • Garlic cloves (2, smashed)
  • Capers (2 tablespoons, rinsed)
  • Fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
  • Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped)

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
  2. Heat a non-stick or stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Heat until a drop of water sizzles immediately, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the hot pan. Press gently with a spatula for 10 seconds to avoid curling. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden.
  4. Flip the salmon and cook the flesh side for another 2-3 minutes until the internal temperature reaches about 125°F (52°C) for medium doneness.
  5. While the salmon cooks, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add smashed garlic cloves and cook until fragrant and lightly golden, about 2 minutes.
  6. Stir in rinsed capers and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice.
  7. Remove salmon from the pan and place skin-side up on plates. Spoon the lemon butter and caper sauce over the top and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
  8. Serve immediately to enjoy the crispy skin and vibrant sauce.

Notes

Dry the salmon thoroughly before cooking to ensure crispy skin. Avoid overcrowding the pan and use medium-high heat. Press the fillets gently when placing in the pan to prevent curling. Monitor butter sauce carefully to avoid burning. For dairy-free option, substitute butter with plant-based butter or extra olive oil. You can finish the salmon in the oven at 400°F for 3-4 minutes after searing for perfect doneness.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon, pan-seared salmon, crispy salmon, lemon butter sauce, capers, easy dinner, quick salmon recipe, healthy seafood

Find it online: https://sofiaspice.com/crispy-pan-seared-salmon-recipe-with-lemon-butter-and-capers-for-easy-dinner/