Pan-Seared Salmon with Brown Butter and Lemon
Ingredients
- 4 fillets (6 ounces each)salmon fillets (skin-on)
- 3 tablespoonsunsalted butter
- 1lemon
- 4 sprigsfresh thyme
- 2garlic clove
- ·kosher salt
- ·black pepper
- 1 tablespoonolive oil
Prep
- 01
Smash 2 garlic cloves with the side of a knife.
- 02
Cut 1 lemon into wedges.
Method
- 01
Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
- 02
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
- 03
Place salmon skin-side up in the skillet and sear for 4 minutes without moving, until the skin is golden and crispy.
- 04
Flip salmon and cook for 2 to 3 minutes more, until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily.
- 05
Push salmon to the side of the skillet and add butter, garlic, and thyme sprigs. Tilt the pan and spoon the foaming butter over the salmon for 1 minute.
- 06
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon and serve immediately with the pan sauce spooned over top.
Spice Tips
This recipe is naturally savory and bright. For warmth, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the brown butter. A small pinch of smoked paprika sprinkled on before serving adds subtle depth.
Serve with steamed asparagus, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad. The brown butter and lemon sauce is rich enough on its own—no cream needed.