Irresistibly Delicious Seared Salmon Recipe for a Perfect Dinner

If you're looking to impress your family or guests with a mouthwatering dish, look no further than this seared salmon recipe. Salmon is not only a delicious……

If you're looking to impress your family or guests with a mouthwatering dish, look no further than this seared salmon recipe. Salmon is not only a delicious fish but also packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making it a healthy choice for any meal. This recipe combines simple ingredients with a cooking technique that enhances the natural flavors of the salmon, resulting in a dish that is both elegant and easy to prepare.

### Ingredients

To create this stunning seared salmon recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

- 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, your choice)

- Salt and freshly ground black pepper

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as dill or parsley)

### Instructions

1. **Preparation**: Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps achieve a crispy skin when searing. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

2. **Heating the Pan**: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to shimmer but not smoke. This is the perfect temperature for searing.

3. **Searing the Salmon**: Carefully place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if using skin-on. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to work in batches. Cook for about 4-5 minutes without moving the fillets. The goal here is to develop a beautiful golden crust.

4. **Flipping the Fillets**: Once the skin is crispy and the salmon is cooked about two-thirds of the way through, gently flip the fillets using a spatula. Add the butter and minced garlic to the pan at this stage. As the butter melts, spoon it over the salmon for added flavor and moisture.

5. **Finishing Touches**: Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked to your desired doneness. If you like your salmon a bit rare in the center, aim for an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C). For more well-done salmon, aim for 145°F (63°C).

6. **Serving**: Once cooked, remove the salmon from the skillet and drizzle with fresh lemon juice. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs for an added pop of color and flavor.

### Pairing Suggestions

This seared salmon recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with:

- **Roasted Vegetables**: Seasonal vegetables such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots, drizzled with olive oil and roasted until tender.

- **Quinoa Salad**: A refreshing quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette adds a healthy touch.

- **Mashed Potatoes**: Creamy mashed potatoes or a cauliflower mash can provide a comforting balance to the dish.

### Conclusion

This seared salmon recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience. The combination of crispy skin, tender flaky fish, and aromatic garlic butter creates a symphony of flavors that is sure to delight your taste buds. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is versatile enough to fit any setting. Impress your loved ones with this easy yet sophisticated dish that highlights the beauty of fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques. Enjoy every bite!