🍳DailyRecipes
Dinner

Easy Pan Seared Salmon Fillets

This simple method produces restaurant quality salmon with a perfectly crisp skin and tender, flaky meat every time.

By Daily Recipes Book· 🌍 American· July 23, 2026
Easy Pan Seared Salmon Fillets
dailyrecipesbook.com
Prep
5 minutes
Cook
10 minutes
Total
15 minutes
Serves
2

There is something special about a perfectly cooked piece of salmon. I used to be intimidated by cooking fish at home, but this method is so straightforward that it has become a staple in my kitchen. It tastes just like the fancy dishes you order at a seafood restaurant, but you can make it in your own kitchen in under twenty minutes.

My biggest tip for this recipe is to make sure your pan is good and hot before you add the fish. This helps get that lovely golden crust on the skin without overcooking the inside. Serve this with some roasted asparagus or a simple green salad for a meal that feels healthy and light.

Ingredients

  • 2 salmon fillets, about 6 ounces each
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 clove garlic, smashed
  • 1 sprig fresh thyme
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions

  1. 1

    Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.

  2. 2

    Season both sides of the fillets generously with salt and pepper.

  3. 3

    Place a skillet over medium high heat and add the olive oil.

  4. 4

    Once the oil is shimmering, place the salmon in the pan skin side down.

  5. 5

    Press the fillets down gently with a spatula and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the skin is crispy.

  6. 6

    Flip the salmon carefully and add the butter, garlic, and thyme to the pan.

  7. 7

    Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes while spooning the melted butter over the fish.

  8. 8

    Remove from the pan and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges.

💡 Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. You can flake the cold salmon over a salad for lunch the next day. If you want even more flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before you take the first bite.

#healthy#dinner#high protein#easy dinner#seafood

Made this recipe? Let us know how it went.

You might also like