Prep Time 10 Min
Cook Time 8 Min
Servings2 servings People
Calories400 kcal
Pan-fried salmon has become a staple in my kitchen, especially on busy weekdays. It’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor, which is a must when you’re juggling dinner with other tasks. The beauty of this dish lies in the simplicity of its seasoning, allowing the salmon’s inherent taste to shine through. I’ve found that letting the fillets rest for a moment after cooking really helps with retaining their moisture. Plus, you can have this on the table in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 skinless salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
- 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to ensure crispiness when frying.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper, then rub this mixture on all sides of the salmon.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
- Place the salmon fillets in the skillet skin-side down and let them cook without moving for about 3-4 minutes until golden.
- Carefully flip the salmon and reduce the heat to medium, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until cooked through.
- Avoid overcooking the salmon as it can dry out; it should flake easily when done.
- Serve immediately garnished with lemon slices, alongside rice or roasted vegetables.
What I Notice When Cooking
- The drying step with the paper towel is crucial for that golden crust.
- I appreciate how the spices add just the right touch without overwhelming the salmon’s natural taste.
- This meal often impresses guests when I serve it for a quick dinner party, paired with a nice side salad.
Small Adjustments
- To avoid burning the garlic, add it to the marinade just before cooking.
- Cooking salmon on lower heat can help prevent it from drying out when you’re still learning the cooking times.
- For a different flavor, try swapping the lemon juice for lime juice.
Storage and Reheating
I recommend storing any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, do it gently in a skillet or microwave, as this helps retain moisture and prevents the fish from becoming rubbery.
Nutritional Notes
Each serving contains approximately 400 calories. This includes healthy fats from the salmon and olive oil, though actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and portions.
