The Best Salmon Recipe: Perfectly Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce
Are you looking for a delicious and easy salmon recipe that will impress your family and friends? Look no further! This recipe for pan-seared salmon with a vibrant lemon-dill sauce is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. It's packed with flavor, healthy, and surprisingly quick to make. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners!
Why This Salmon Recipe is the Best
This recipe stands out for several reasons:
- Simplicity: It's incredibly easy to follow, even for beginner cooks.
- Flavor: The combination of pan-seared salmon and the bright, herbaceous lemon-dill sauce is a match made in heaven.
- Health: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.
- Versatility: This recipe can be easily adapted to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or add vegetables.
Ingredients You'll Need:
-
For the Salmon:
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off (your preference!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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For the Lemon-Dill Sauce:
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor!)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparing the Salmon:
- Pat the salmon dry: This crucial step ensures a beautiful sear. Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the salmon fillets.
- Season generously: Season both sides of the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
Pan-Searing the Salmon:
- Heat the oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The pan should be hot before adding the salmon.
- Sear the salmon: Carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets) in the hot skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Flip and cook: Flip the salmon and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through to your liking. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Making the Lemon-Dill Sauce:
- Deglaze the pan: Pour in the white wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for a minute.
- Add lemon juice and butter: Stir in the lemon juice and butter. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Stir in dill: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving:
Spoon the lemon-dill sauce over the cooked salmon fillets and serve immediately. This dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or some fluffy rice.
Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook the salmon in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fillets. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon is cooked to your liking.
- Get creative with herbs: Experiment with different herbs like parsley, chives, or tarragon in the sauce.
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