Pan-Seared Salmon with Crispy Skin & Lemon-Dill Butter Sauce

Want the best way to make salmon? My pan-seared recipe gives you crispy skin & tender, juicy flesh! Ready in minutes. Try it, you'll be hooked! ... Quick - Easy
- The Only Salmon Recipe You'll Ever Need
- Pan-Seared Salmon with Crispy Skin & Lemon-Dill Butter Sauce Recipe Card
- Why This Salmon Recipe Rocks
- Ingredients & Equipment: The Secret Sauce
- Pan-Seared Salmon: Crispy Skin Perfection
- Serving Like a Pro
- Storage Secrets
- Mixing it Up
- Nutrition Nuggets
- Frequently Asked Questions
Alright, let's get this show on the road. ever wondered about the best way to make salmon that's actually dead easy but tastes like it came straight from a fancy restaurant? i'm talking about pan-seared salmon with crispy skin and a lemon-dill butter sauce.
Trust me, this is a game-changer.
The Only Salmon Recipe You'll Ever Need
Seriously though, forget everything you thought you knew.
This recipe is my take on a classic. it’s inspired by simple british cooking, where the focus is always on quality ingredients and great flavour.
Plus, it is inspired by one from bbc good food – consider it "inspired by" not "copied from". this easy baked salmon is so good it's almost criminal.
Pan-Seared Salmon with Crispy Skin & Lemon-Dill Butter Sauce Recipe Card

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Why This Salmon Recipe Rocks
This pan-seared salmon gives you a crispy skin and stays super moist inside. plus, that lemon-dill butter sauce? oh my gosh! it’s what makes this dish special.
It elevates the salmon dishes to something truly special, but you get the recipe done under 30 minutes. this makes it ideal for when you have guests over, or for a very quick but sophisticated after work meal! and the best part? it's actually healthy.
Honestly, this recipe is perfect for date night or a quick weeknight dinner. it's loaded with protein, healthy fats and it is super quick to make.
This healthy salmon recipe is quick and easy.
Plus, getting your dose of Omega 3 acids is important, so I think you should make this as soon as possible.
Let's dive into the ingredients, shall we? If you are looking for oven baked salmon recipes , just wait I might write something similar later.
Alright, let’s talk salmon. i reckon the best way to make salmon at home is pan-seared. sounds fancy, doesn’t it? it's actually dead easy and delivers crispy skin with a moist inside.
Forget rubbery salmon, we want perfection. so, grab your pinny, and let's get started.

Ingredients & Equipment: The Secret Sauce
Honestly, using good quality ingredients will make all the difference. Don't skimp on that salmon fillet!
Main Ingredients
- Two 6-ounce/170g salmon fillets, skin on.
- 1 tablespoon/15ml of olive oil.
- ½ teaspoon/2.5ml of sea salt.
- ¼ teaspoon/1.25ml of black pepper.
For the salmon, look for fillets that are bright pink. avoid anything that looks dull or smells too fishy. fresh is best.
The oven baked salmon recipes are great, but there's nothing that compares to a pan-seared dish.
Seasoning Notes
This lemon-dill butter sauce? It’s essential . Trust me.
- 2 tablespoons/30g of unsalted butter.
- 1 minced garlic clove.
- 2 tablespoons/30ml of dry white wine.
- 2 tablespoons/30ml of fresh lemon juice.
- 2 tablespoons/30ml of chopped fresh dill.
- 1 tablespoon/15ml of chopped fresh parsley.
For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. if you're out of white wine, chicken broth works too! experiment a bit, oven baked salmon is great, but that garlic butter brings another level.
It's one of the greatest salmon dishes . you know, dill and lemon are a match made in heaven with fish.
Feel free to use dried herbs but fresh is better. also, consider to try healthy salmon recipes with less butter.
Equipment Needed
Keep it simple. No need for loads of kit.
- A 12-inch/30cm skillet (cast iron or non-stick).
- A fish spatula. Essential for flipping.
- A small saucepan for the sauce.
Don’t have a fish spatula? a thin turner will do in a pinch. i find cast iron gives the best sear.
The best way to make salmon is with cast iron. if you don't have that, make sure to check our oven baked salmon recipes .
You can use a thermometer, too. the sweet spot to get a butter salmon is at 145° f ( 63° c) .
Okay, let's dive into this best way to make salmon article, shall we? honestly, there are loads of salmon fillet recipes out there, but not all deliver that restaurant-quality vibe at home.
I'm aiming for that!
Pan-Seared Salmon: Crispy Skin Perfection
Ever wondered how restaurants get that perfectly crispy salmon skin? i did! this recipe nails it. we're talking pan-seared salmon with a luscious garlic butter salmon sauce.
It's way easier than you think. trust me, this is one of those salmon dishes that will impress your mates.
Prep Like a Pro
First, mise en place , darling! chop 2 tablespoons of fresh dill and 1 tablespoon fresh parsley. mince one clove of garlic.
Pat dry two 6-ounce healthy salmon fillets. dry is crucial! season them with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper.
Honestly, good prep makes all the difference. this will save you time later, for reals.
Let's Cook: Step by Step
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. The pan must be shimmering!
- Place salmon skin-side down. Press gently for 60 seconds . This ensures even crisping.
- Cook for 6- 8 minutes , or until the skin is golden brown. Don't fidget with it!
- Flip and cook for 2- 4 minutes , until it reaches 145° F ( 63° C) . Use a thermometer, if you have one.
- While salmon cooks, melt 2 tablespoons butter in a small pan. Add garlic, cook 30 seconds .
- Pour in 2 tablespoons white wine and 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Simmer 1- 2 minutes , reduced a bit.
- Stir in dill, parsley, pinch of red pepper flakes (optional). Remove from the heat.
- Spoon the butter salmon sauce over the fillets. Serve immediately!
Pro Tips for Salmon Success
Want that extra edge? first, dry skin = crispy skin. pat those fillets aggressively! second, don't overcrowd the pan. cook in batches if needed.
Avoid overcooking. salmon should be moist. make-ahead? you can make the sauce ahead of time. warm it gently before serving.
You know, sometimes i mess up too, but i just learn from it! these oven baked salmon recipes won't compare to this!
Honestly, easy baked salmon is alright, but this is next level. i mean, who can resist that crispy skin? you might find a few baked salmon recipes that look good, but this will definitely be the best way to make salmon .
It's the perfect dish, enjoy!
Right, let's talk recipe notes for the "best way to make salmon"! honestly, these are little bits of wisdom you pick up along the way, the kind of things that turn a good dish into a great one.
I remember the first time i tried making salmon, it was a complete disaster – dry as anything. never again!
Serving Like a Pro
So, you've got this beautiful Oven Baked Salmon (or Pan-Seared Salmon!). How do you make it look as good as it tastes?
Plating and Presentation Ideas
Think fresh! A sprig of dill, a lemon wedge, a swirl of balsamic glaze. Honestly, even just a clean plate makes a difference. If you're feeling fancy, maybe some microgreens?
Complementary Sides and Beverages
Healthy Salmon needs a good sidekick. Roasted asparagus is a classic. A simple quinoa salad? Bang on. For drinks? A chilled Sauvignon Blanc. A crisp pale ale also works.
Storage Secrets
Right, you've got leftovers of your delicious Salmon Fillet Recipes . Let's keep it safe and delicious.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Pop it in an airtight container as soon as it's cooled. it'll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
You know, just in case you don't scoff it all in one go!
Freezing Options
Baked Salmon Recipes usually freeze pretty well. Wrap it tightly in cling film, then foil. It can keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. But, honestly, fresh is always best.
Reheating Instructions
Gently does it! Reheat in a low oven (about 275° F/ 135° C) or in the microwave at 30-second intervals. You don't want to dry it out!
Mixing it Up
Feeling adventurous? Let's tweak those Oven Baked Salmon Recipes !
Dietary Adaptations
Going dairy-free? Swap the butter in the sauce for olive oil. Easy peasy!
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps
In the summer, use fresh basil instead of dill. in the autumn, maybe some roasted butternut squash on the side.
Get creative with those salmon dishes ! it could even be garlic butter salmon with a twist!
Nutrition Nuggets
Right, let's get a bit serious for a moment about Butter Salmon . Salmon is a nutritional powerhouse. Did you know that the American Heart Association recommends eating fish (particularly fatty fish, such as salmon) at least two times (two servings) a week?
Simplified Nutrition Information
Salmon is packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids. It's good for your heart, your brain, and your skin. Win-win-win!
Key Health Benefits
Those omega-3s are anti-inflammatory. Protein helps you build muscle. Salmon is a champion of a Healthy Salmon meal.
There you have it, mate. Little extra hints to help you create the Easy Baked Salmon of dreams. Give it a bash, and don't be afraid to experiment. Most importantly, have fun!

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to make salmon with really crispy skin?
The best way to make salmon with crispy skin is to ensure the skin is completely dry before cooking. Pat it down with paper towels, season generously, and then sear skin-side down in a hot pan with hot oil. Press down gently on the salmon for the first minute to ensure even contact with the pan and don't move it until the skin is golden brown!
How do I avoid overcooking my salmon? It always ends up dry!
Nobody wants dry salmon! The key is to use a thermometer. Cook the salmon until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Remember, the salmon will continue to cook slightly after you take it off the heat. Take it off just before it reaches 145°F for perfectly cooked, flaky salmon. A bit of resting time is your friend here too.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe, and if so, what’s the best way to thaw it?
Yes, you absolutely can use frozen salmon! The best way to thaw it is in the refrigerator overnight. If you're in a rush, you can thaw it in a sealed bag in cold water for about an hour, changing the water every 30 minutes. Make sure the salmon is completely thawed and patted dry before cooking, regardless of the thawing method.
What are some variations on this recipe for pan-seared salmon? I fancy a bit of a change!
Fancy a change, eh? You could try a Mediterranean twist by using oregano and thyme instead of dill and parsley in the sauce, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the salmon before searing for a little heat. Also, consider finishing the salmon with a squeeze of lime juice for a brighter flavor profile. Get creative, experiment, and find your favourite combo!
How long does cooked salmon last in the fridge, and what’s the best way to store it?
Cooked salmon will generally last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out and absorbing other flavours in the fridge. It's great for salmon fishcakes the next day or to use in a salad!
Is salmon healthy? What are the nutritional benefits?
Absolutely, salmon is incredibly good for you! It's packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your heart and brain. It’s also a fantastic source of protein, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. So, tuck in and enjoy those health benefits!