The sweet and savory flavors of pan-seared salmon are a match made in heaven. When cooked to perfection, this delicate fish takes on a crispy exterior that gives way to a tender and juicy interior. And with its versatility in terms of seasonings and pairings, the possibilities for delicious pan-seared salmon recipes are endless! In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouthwatering options that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. From classic combinations like garlic butter and lemon to bold and zesty flavors like spicy Cajun and sriracha mayo, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your skillet and get ready to cook up a storm with these crispy pan-seared salmon recipes!
Garlic Butter Pan Seared Salmon with Lemon
A flavorful and moist salmon dish elevated by the richness of garlic butter and a squeeze of fresh lemon.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add butter to the pan and let it melt. Then, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Place the salmon fillets in the pan, skin side up (if they have skin). Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the skin is crispy.
5. Flip the salmon over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
6. Remove from heat and squeeze lemon juice over the top of each fillet.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Honey Glazed Pan Seared Salmon with Thyme
Elevate your dinner routine with this sweet and savory recipe featuring pan-seared salmon, a hint of thyme, and a sticky honey glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked halfway through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard. Brush the glaze evenly onto the salmon fillets.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until salmon is cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Cajun Pan Seared Salmon with Avocado Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of the Bayou with this spicy and savory dish, featuring pan-seared salmon smothered in a zesty Cajun seasoning blend and served atop creamy avocado salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels; coat each with the spice mixture.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the preheated skillet and sear salmon for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine avocado, lime juice, red onion, and jalapeño pepper in a bowl.
6. Serve salmon fillets with avocado salsa spooned on top; garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Maple Dijon Pan Seared Salmon with Asparagus
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the rich flavor of pan-seared salmon with the brightness of asparagus. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp maple syrup
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and Dijon mustard.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon fillets and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toss asparagus with remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until tender.
6. Serve salmon atop roasted asparagus, drizzled with maple Dijon glaze (reserved from step 2). Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pan Seared Salmon with Mango Salsa
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and refreshing combination of pan-seared salmon and sweet mango salsa. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
For the salmon:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the mango salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– Cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the preheated oven.
4. Cook salmon for an additional 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice in a bowl. Stir gently.
6. Serve cooked salmon with mango salsa spooned over the top. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Herb Crusted Pan Seared Salmon with Garlic Aioli
Elevate your salmon game with this flavorful and visually appealing dish, where the natural sweetness of the fish is complemented by a fragrant herb crust and rich garlic aioli.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Garlic aioli (recipe below)
Garlic Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together parsley, dill, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Divide the herb mixture evenly among the salmon fillets, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Pan-sear the salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve with garlic aioli and lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan Seared Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive recipe, featuring pan-seared salmon topped with a tangy and creamy dill sauce. This dish is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Transfer to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes.
4. In a small saucepan, combine heavy cream, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve salmon with creamy dill sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sesame Ginger Pan Seared Salmon with Bok Choy
This Asian-inspired dish combines the rich flavor of sesame and ginger with the tender bite of pan-seared salmon, all wrapped up with a bundle of crisp bok choy. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 2 tsp sesame oil
– 2 tbsp white sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 bunches bok choy, cleaned and drained
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together ginger, sesame oil, and salt.
3. Season salmon fillets with the ginger mixture.
4. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Sear salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to oven for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, heat remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a separate pan over medium heat.
7. Add bok choy and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
8. Serve salmon with steamed bok choy and garnish with sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pan Seared Salmon with Brown Butter and Capers
Elevate your salmon dish with a rich and flavorful brown butter sauce, finished with a burst of caper flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup browned butter (see instructions below)
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add the butter to the preheated skillet. Cook until melted and foamy, about 1-2 minutes.
4. Sear the salmon fillets for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the browned butter (see instructions below) and stir to combine with any remaining butter in the skillet.
7. Stir in capers. Cook for an additional minute.
8. Serve the pan-seared salmon with the brown butter and caper sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Browned Butter:
– Melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
– Cook, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
– Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using.
Balsamic Glazed Pan Seared Salmon with Spinach
This recipe combines the rich flavors of balsamic glaze and pan-seared salmon with the nutty sweetness of spinach, creating a delicious and well-rounded dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 bunch fresh spinach, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
5. Brush balsamic glaze over the seared salmon fillets.
6. Serve salmon with wilted spinach and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes
Pan Seared Salmon with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
A flavorful and colorful dish that combines the richness of pan-seared salmon with the vibrant flavors of pesto and sweet cherry tomatoes. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add the olive oil to the skillet and sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
4. While the salmon is cooking, place the cherry tomatoes in a bowl and drizzle with pesto.
5. Serve the salmon atop the tomato mixture and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Coconut Crusted Pan Seared Salmon with Lime
Coconut Crusted Pan Seared Salmon with Lime: A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional salmon recipes, this dish combines the richness of coconut with the brightness of lime.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 limes, juiced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together shredded coconut and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each salmon fillet into the coconut mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Add butter to the preheated skillet and swirl to melt.
5. Sear the coconut-crusted salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately with a squeeze of lime juice and garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Pan Seared Salmon with Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful combination of pan-seared salmon and roasted garlic mashed potatoes. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 3 cloves of garlic, peeled and separated
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the garlic: Place the garlic on a piece of foil, drizzle with olive oil, and fold into a packet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Boil potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
4. Pan-sear salmon: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and swirl to coat. Cook salmon for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Mash potatoes: Drain potatoes and mash with roasted garlic, butter, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Pan Seared Salmon with Chimichurri Sauce
Pan-Seared Salmon with Chimichurri Sauce Recipe
In this recipe, succulent salmon fillets are pan-seared to perfection and served with a zesty Argentinean-inspired chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
• 1/4 cup fresh oregano leaves
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the preheated pan, then sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. While the salmon cooks, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, and remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a bowl. Mix well.
5. Remove the cooked salmon from the pan, let it rest for 1 minute. Serve with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan Seared Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce
This recipe combines the richness of pan-seared salmon with a tangy and creamy lemon sauce, creating a well-balanced flavor profile that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and sear the salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Stir in heavy cream and lemon juice. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve the pan-seared salmon with the lemon cream sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (including salmon cooking time)
Pan Seared Salmon with Quinoa and Kale
A flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the richness of salmon with the nutty taste of quinoa and the earthy flavor of kale.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 bunch kale, stems removed and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or vegetable broth.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In the same skillet, add chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Serve salmon atop quinoa and kale, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pan Seared Salmon with Sriracha Mayo
This recipe combines the richness of pan-seared salmon with the bold, spicy flavor of sriracha mayonnaise. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup sriracha sauce
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add the olive oil to the skillet and sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, mix together the sriracha sauce and mayonnaise in a small bowl.
5. Serve the pan-seared salmon with the sriracha mayo spooned over the top.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan Seared Salmon with Sweet Chili Glaze
Savor the sweet and spicy flavors of this pan-seared salmon recipe, perfectly balanced with a sweet chili glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear the salmon fillets for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and honey.
6. Brush the glaze over the cooked salmon fillets.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavorsome world of pan-seared salmon with these 18 mouthwatering recipes! From classic garlic butter and lemon to adventurous sweet chili glaze and Sriracha mayo, each dish offers a unique twist on this beloved fish. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, there’s a recipe here to suit your taste buds. Discover how to perfectly season and pan-sear salmon with flavors like honey-glazed thyme, spicy Cajun avocado salsa, and more. A culinary journey awaits!
