Salmon with Lemon Butter

This salmon with lemon butter is an elegant yet incredibly easy dinner that comes together in just 20 minutes. A perfectly pan-seared salmon fillet with a golden crispy skin is topped with a rich, zesty lemon butter sauce and fresh herbs. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal, this easy salmon recipe delivers restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen.

⏱Prep Time

5 minutes

⏱Cook Time

15 minutes

⏱Total Time

20 minutes

🥘 Servings

2 Serving

Ingredients

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
  • Lemon slices for serving

🍽 Serving Suggestion

Serve the salmon with lemon butter alongside steamed asparagus, roasted potatoes, or a light green salad for a complete and balanced dinner. A glass of white wine pairs beautifully with this dish.

Nutrition (Approximate)

Calories: 420 kcal        Protein: 36 g
Carbohydrates: 4 g        Fat: 28 g

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat until hot.
  3. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes without moving them.
  4. Flip the fillets and cook for another 3–4 minutes until cooked through and flaky.
  5. Remove the salmon from the pan and set aside on a plate.
  6. In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add the butter.
  7. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  8. Add the lemon juice and lemon zest and stir to combine.
  9. Pour the lemon butter sauce over the salmon fillets.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill and serve with lemon slices.

⭐ Tips

  • Always use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture
  • Make sure the pan is very hot before adding the salmon for a crispy skin
  • Don’t move the salmon while cooking — let it naturally release from the pan
  • Add capers to the lemon butter sauce for an extra tangy flavor