Simple Pan Seared Salmon Recipe
This simple pan seared salmon recipe is so to make easy and only takes minutes to achieve a perfectly seared, cooked, and flaky salmon fillet.
When I think of quick dinners, I think of this super simple pan seared salmon recipe. It’s not only healthy and delicious, but it makes making dinner so easy – perfect for when I space on prepping for dinner.
This salmon recipe is also very versatile and can set up the base for many dinners. This can be served alongside steamed veggies and pilaf, or it can be used to make Unforgettable Salmon Tacos With Slaw.
Whatever you decide, just rest assured the salmon will come out perfectly seared and flaky.
This post is about how to make the best pan seared salmon recipe.
Simple Pan Seared Salmon Recipe
What do I need to make this easy salmon recipe?
You will need:
- Salmon fillets: Wild-caught or farm-raised is fine here. If you are using frozen salmon, be sure to thaw it out first.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste. Be sure to sprinkle a generous amount on each fillet.
- Oil: Any kind you have on hand is fine but vegetable oil or canola oil is preferred with searing or frying in a pan with high heat.
How do I make this salmon on the stove?
First, pat dry the salmon. Then, season the “presentation” (skinless) side with a generous amount of salt and pepper.
The “presentation” side gets seared first so it creates a nice sear or crust to it.
Next:
- Set a large, flat pan on medium-high heat. Add the oil and wait until the oil is hot (the oil may smoke a little bit). It is key that the oil is hot because that is what creates the desirable sear on the salmon.
- Gently place the salmon fillets in the pan with the seasoned side down. Allow the fish to sear for 5-7 minutes WITHOUT moving it.
- After 5-7 minutes, use a spatula and ensure the salmon is not stuck to the pan. Use tongs and gently flip the salmon fillets over. Lower the heat to medium-low.
- Allow the fillets to cook the rest of the way for another 5-7 minutes (depending on the thickness of the fillet). They are done when the center is no longer opaque and the salmon is flaky.
That’s it!
What can I serve with these pan seared salmon?
The options here are endless. You can serve it just like this with steamed or roasted vegetables and basmati rice. Or consider making a creamy lemon caper sauce or teriyaki sauce to serve atop the salmon.
You can also use this as a base to make salmon tacos or burritos. Consider topping off a salad with this salmon or use it in a pasta dish. Talk about a versatile recipe!
🖤 Let me know in the comments if you plan on making this or if you did. I love hearing from you!
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🖤 Thank you for visiting and happy cooking! 🙂
This post was about how to make a simple and versatile pan seared salmon recipe.
Simple Pan Seared Salmon Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets 6 ounces each
- 2 tablespoons canola or vegetable oil
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- First, pat dry the salmon. Then, season the"presentation" (skinless) side with a generous amount of salt and pepper.The "presentation" side gets seared first so it creates a nice sear or crust to it.
- Set a large, flat pan on medium-high heat. Add the oil and wait until the oil is hot (the oil may smoke a little bit). It is key that the oil is hot because that is what creates the desirable sear on the salmon.
- Using tongs, gently place the salmon fillets in the pan with the seasoned side down. Allow the fish to sear for 5-7 minutes WITHOUT moving it.
- After 5-7 minutes, use a spatula and ensure the salmon is not stuck to the pan. Using tongs, gently flip the salmon fillets over. Lower the heat to medium-low. Allow the fillets to cook the rest of the way for another 5-7 minutes (depending on the thickness of the fillet). They are done when the center is no longer opaque and the salmon is flaky.
- Enjoy!
What a great and simple recipe. The step by step instructions were very helpful. My salmon came out flaky with a nice sear on the outside. Couldn’t be happier with it!
Hi Melanie, so glad to hear it came out great!
Look at the crust on that salmon! I think it’s crucial to make sure your salmon is extra dry before putting it in the pan with oil because otherwise the hot oil will get everywhere! Fresh salmon is one of my favorite foods, so it is really important to master the basics of simple cooking methods.
Great advice! Thank you for sharing!