Crispy Pan-Seared Salmon with Herb Butter
Crispy Pan-Seared Salmon with Herb Butter is the perfect combination of golden, flaky salmon and rich, flavorful herb butter. This easy seafood dinner recipe is packed with fresh herbs, buttery goodness, and restaurant-quality flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights or elegant family meals.
Ingredients
- For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ tsp paprika (optional, for color)
- For the Herb Butter:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme or dill (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Salmon: Pat salmon dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
- Heat the Pan: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
- Pan-Sear Salmon: Place salmon fillets skin-side down (if skin-on) in the skillet. Cook 4–5 minutes without moving, until the skin is crispy and golden. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove salmon from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Herb Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, lower heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic. Cook 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, thyme/dill (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Combine and Serve: Spoon herb butter over salmon fillets. Serve immediately.