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Pan-Fried Salmon

Pan-Fried Salmon features fillets seared in lemon-butter until the exterior turns golden with a bright, tangy finish and rich, buttery depth. It’s a quick stovetop dish that highlights the fish’s tender, flaky texture—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a simple, elegant plate with vegetables or rice.

  • Prep5 mins
  • Cook5 mins
  • Serves4
  • DifficultyEasy
Pan-Fried Salmon
  1. 1

    Melt the butter in a large, heavy skillet over medium heat; add the lemon juice and swirl the skillet to mix.

  2. 2

    Set the salmon fillets in the skillet, flesh side down; cook until browned, about 3 minutes. Spoon the lemon butter over the tops to baste. Turn the fillets with a spatula; cook 1 to 2 minutes more, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Season with salt and black pepper.