Let me tell you, pan fried salmon with garlic butter sauce is one of my absolute go-to dishes! It’s incredibly simple to whip up, yet packed with flavor that makes it feel like a special occasion. I remember the first time I made this for my family on a busy weeknight—everyone was raving about it, and I couldn’t believe how quickly it came together! The golden, crispy skin of the salmon paired with that rich, buttery garlic sauce just sings on the plate. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll be a staple in your kitchen too. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something satisfying but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen!
Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients for my pan fried salmon with garlic butter sauce is super important—and guess what? It’s all so simple! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 salmon fillets (fresh is best, trust me!)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for that rich flavor)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (the more, the merrier, right?)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (adds that zesty kick)
- Salt to taste (don’t be shy, but start light!)
- Pepper to taste (just a pinch gives a nice touch)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for that gorgeous garnish)
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. It makes the process flow so much smoother! Happy cooking!
How to Prepare Pan Fried Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce
Alright, let’s dive into the steps for making this delicious pan fried salmon with garlic butter sauce! It’s a simple process, and I promise it’ll become second nature once you get the hang of it. Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Season the Salmon
First things first, let’s season those salmon fillets! Sprinkle a generous pinch of salt and pepper on both sides—about ½ teaspoon of salt and a good dash of pepper should do the trick. This will really enhance the natural flavors of the fish. Don’t be afraid to season well; salmon can handle it!
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Now, grab a skillet and place it over medium heat. You want it nice and warm before adding the butter, so give it a minute or two. Then, add the 2 tablespoons of butter. Keep an eye on it as it melts; we’re looking for that perfect foamy stage without burning. This is where the magic begins!
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Once the butter is melted and bubbling, it’s time to add the minced garlic. Wow, the smell is going to be amazing! Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. Be careful here—garlic can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a flash, and we definitely don’t want that! You just want it fragrant and slightly softened.
Step 4: Cook the Salmon
Now comes the fun part—carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down. You should hear a lovely sizzle! Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on this side until the skin is crispy and golden. Then, flip the fillets gently and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the other side. Aim for that beautiful pink center, and don’t worry; it’ll stay juicy!
Step 5: Add Lemon Juice
When your salmon is almost done, it’s time to drizzle that bright lemon juice over the top—about 1 tablespoon will do. Do this just a minute or so before you take it off the heat. This adds a fresh burst of flavor that really complements the richness of the garlic butter!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, it’s time to plate up! Transfer your gorgeous salmon to a serving dish and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. This dish is fantastic on its own or served with a side of steamed veggies or fluffy rice to soak up that garlic butter sauce. Enjoy every bite—trust me, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pan fried salmon with garlic butter sauce is a total game-changer in the kitchen! Here’s why I’m absolutely obsessed with it:
- Quick to make: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something delicious fast!
- Super easy: You don’t need any fancy techniques or equipment—just a skillet and a few simple ingredients!
- Flavor-packed: The combination of garlic and butter takes the natural flavor of the salmon to a whole new level. It’s truly irresistible!
- Healthy choice: Salmon is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish not only tasty but good for you too!
- Customizable: Feel free to tweak the garlic and lemon to suit your taste. You can even add your favorite herbs for a personal twist!
Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your home. You’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients can create something so scrumptious!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s talk about how to ensure your pan fried salmon with garlic butter sauce turns out absolutely perfect every time! Here are some of my favorite tips to keep in mind:
- Choose the right salmon: Look for fresh, high-quality salmon fillets with a vibrant color. Wild-caught salmon tends to have a richer flavor, but farmed salmon works perfectly too!
- Temperature matters: Make sure your skillet is at the right temperature before adding the salmon. Too hot and it will burn; too cold and it won’t sear properly. Medium heat is your friend here!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you’re cooking more than two fillets, do it in batches. Giving them space lets the salmon cook evenly and achieve that lovely crispy skin.
- Adjust the garlic: If you love garlic (who doesn’t?), feel free to add an extra clove or two! Just sauté it carefully to avoid burning. If you prefer a milder flavor, stick to the original amount.
- Season to taste: Start with a light hand on the salt and pepper, and you can always add more after cooking. I usually taste a small piece of the cooked salmon to see if it needs a little extra seasoning.
- Let it rest: After cooking, let the salmon rest for a minute before serving. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping it moist and flavorful!
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this delicious dish. Enjoy the process, and remember: cooking should be fun! You’ve got this!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying my pan fried salmon with garlic butter sauce, it’s nice to know what’s going into this delicious dish! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional data per serving (1 fillet):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on typical ingredients and can vary depending on specific brands and preparation methods. But hey, salmon is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s also a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids, making it a healthy addition to your dinner table!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making pan fried salmon with garlic butter sauce? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I get, along with my tried-and-true answers:
How long do I cook the salmon on each side?
Typically, you’ll want to cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for that crispy skin and a lovely pink center. If your fillets are thicker, you might need an extra minute or two!
Can I use frozen salmon?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can either leave it in the fridge overnight or run it under cold water for a quicker thawing method. Once it’s thawed, follow the same steps as fresh salmon!
What if I don’t have butter?
No worries! You can substitute with olive oil or any other cooking oil you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be a bit different without the richness of butter, but it’ll still be delicious!
What should I serve with this dish?
This salmon pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or even fluffy rice. I love serving it with a side of sautéed asparagus or a simple quinoa salad. It’s all about what you enjoy!
Can I add more garlic?
Of course! If you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to increase the amount. Just remember to sauté it carefully to avoid burning—nobody wants bitter garlic ruining the dish!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
You bet! This pan fried salmon with garlic butter sauce is naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for everyone to enjoy!
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The best way to check is to use a fork to gently flake the fish. It should be opaque and easily flake apart. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of around 145°F (63°C).
I hope these answers help you feel more confident in making this fabulous dish! If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have any leftovers from your pan fried salmon with garlic butter sauce (which is rare, but it happens!), storing them properly is key to keeping all that delicious flavor intact! Here’s how I do it:
- Storing: Allow the salmon to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. I like to separate the fillets with a layer of parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure it’s sealed well to avoid any funky fridge smells!
- Reheating: The best way to reheat your salmon is gently. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C) and place the salmon on a baking sheet. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain that lovely texture without drying it out.
- Microwave Option: If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Just place the salmon on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed. Be careful not to overheat it, or you’ll end up with rubbery salmon!
And there you go! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your pan fried salmon with garlic butter sauce even after it’s made. Enjoy every last bite!
Print
Pan Fried Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce: 5 Simple Steps
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Pan fried salmon with garlic butter sauce is a flavorful and simple dish that highlights the natural taste of salmon.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the butter.
- Once the butter melts, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is cooked through.
- Drizzle lemon juice over the salmon before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley.
Notes
- Use fresh salmon for best flavor.
- Adjust garlic amount based on personal preference.
- Serve with a side of vegetables or rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: pan fried salmon, garlic butter sauce, salmon recipe
