Lemon Butter Salmon

Lemon Butter Salmon is a simple, elegant dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Juicy salmon fillets are pan-seared until golden and topped with a silky lemon butter sauce. Light, fresh, and full of flavor, this dish is perfect for both a quick weeknight meal and an impressive dinner for guests.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Servings: 4
Method
- Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon, skin side down, and cook 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in chicken broth (or wine), lemon juice, and lemon zest. Simmer for 2 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Return salmon to the skillet and spoon sauce over the fillets. Cook another 1–2 minutes to warm through.
- Garnish with parsley and lemon slices. Serve hot with rice, potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
Notes
For crispy skin, don’t move the salmon while it sears.
Swap parsley for dill for a different flavor profile.
This recipe also works great with trout or cod.
Swap parsley for dill for a different flavor profile.
This recipe also works great with trout or cod.
