Name: Seared Salmon with Garlic Lemon Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; salt and freshly ground black pepper; 2 tsp olive oil; 2 garlic cloves; ¼ cup chicken broth; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; ½ tsp honey; 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley; lemon slices

Perfectly seared salmon is a sight to behold, with its crisply browned surface and tender, rosy interior. But when it's paired with a light and tangy garlic lemon sauce, the result is a dish that's as delicious as it is beautiful. This recipe takes the natural richness of the salmon and amplifies it with the bright, zesty flavors of the sauce. It's a quick and easy recipe that brings the quality of a high-end restaurant straight into your kitchen.

Photos of Seared Salmon with Garlic Lemon Sauce Recipe

Most of these ingredients, such as salmon fillets, olive oil, garlic cloves, lemon juice, and unsalted butter, are likely to be available in your pantry. If not, they are easily found in any supermarket. The chicken broth used in this recipe can be found in the soup aisle. If you prefer, you can also make your own by simmering chicken bones. Fresh parsley is preferable for its vibrant flavor and can be found in the produce section. Remember to pick up a fresh lemon for the juice and garnish.

Ingredients for Seared Salmon with Garlic Lemon Sauce

Salmon fillets: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, they are the primary ingredient in this recipe. Make sure you choose fresh, high-quality fillets.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Adds flavor to the salmon fillets.

Olive oil: Used for searing the salmon and adds a mild, fruity flavor.

Garlic cloves: A key ingredient in the sauce, gives it a strong, pungent flavor.

Chicken broth: Adds depth and savoriness to the sauce.

Lemon juice: Brings a tangy freshness to the sauce.

Unsalted butter: Gives the sauce a rich, creamy texture and flavor.

Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tanginess of the lemon.

Fresh parsley: Gives a burst of fresh flavor and adds a pop of color.

Lemon slices: Adds a fresh, tangy garnish to the dish.

One reader, Hana Witt says:

The seared salmon with garlic lemon sauce recipe is a game-changer! The salmon was perfectly cooked and the sauce was a burst of flavor. It's now my go-to dish for dinner parties. The recipe is easy to follow and the result is restaurant-quality. Highly recommend trying it out!

Hana Witt

Key Techniques for Perfectly Seared Salmon

How to sear salmon: Searing salmon involves cooking it over high heat to create a crispy, golden-brown crust while keeping the inside tender and moist.

How to make garlic lemon sauce: This involves sautéing garlic, then adding chicken broth and lemon juice, and simmering until reduced. Then, whisk in butter and honey until combined to create a flavorful sauce.

How to season salmon: Seasoning the salmon involves sprinkling salt and pepper on both sides to enhance its flavor.

How to cook salmon: Cooking the salmon involves heating olive oil in a skillet, then cooking the salmon for a few minutes on each side until it is golden brown and cooked through.

How to plate and garnish: Plating the salmon involves drizzling each serving with the prepared garlic lemon sauce, sprinkling with parsley, and garnishing with lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.

How To Make Seared Salmon with Garlic Lemon Sauce

Tender pan seared salmon are cooked until golden and flaky, then covered with a rich buttery garlic lemon sauce for a quick dish that’s ready in 30 minutes.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Rest Time: 10 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Remove the salmon fillets from the refrigerator and allow to rest at room temperature for 10 minutes.

1. In a small saucepan, melt 1 teaspoon of butter over medium heat.

1. Add garlic and sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes, until lightly golden brown. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice.

1. Let the sauce simmer for 3 minutes, until it has reduced by half or to about 3 tablespoons. Stir in the butter and honey, then whisk until combined. Set sauce aside.

1. Dab both sides of the salmon dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper.

1. Heat the olive oil in a heavy 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.

1. Once the oil is shimmering, add the salmon and cook for about 4 minutes on the first side until golden brown on the bottom. Flip and cook salmon on opposite side for 2 to 3 minutes longer, until the salmon has cooked through

1. Plate the salmon and drizzle each serving generously with butter sauce, sprinkle with parsley and garnish with lemon slices.

1. Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

- Calories: 935.89kcal

- Fat: 64.29g

- Saturated Fat: 17.93g

- Trans Fat: 0.35g

- Monounsaturated Fat: 18.91g

- Polyunsaturated Fat: 16.00g

- Carbohydrates: 3.24g

- Fiber: 0.45g

- Sugar: 1.20g

- Protein: 81.65g

- Cholesterol: 241.15mg

- Sodium: 1016.50mg

- Calcium: 50.78mg

- Potassium: 1498.19mg

- Iron: 1.68mg

- Vitamin A: 81.35µg

- Vitamin C: 21.42mg

Pro Tip for Achieving Crispy Salmon Skin

When searing salmon, it's important to have your pan hot but not smoking. This ensures a nice, crispy skin without overcooking the fish. Also, remember to pat the salmon dry before seasoning and placing it in the pan. This helps to get a good sear and prevents the salmon from sticking to the pan.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Seared Salmon with Garlic Lemon Sauce

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and prepare the sauce in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pan wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pan to minimize cleanup and save time.

Batch cooking: Make larger quantities of certain components, such as grains or proteins, and store them for use in multiple meals throughout the week.

Efficient tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors, mandolines, and immersion blenders to speed up prep work and cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Seared Salmon with Garlic Lemon Sauce Recipe

salmon fillets - Substitute with arctic char fillets: Arctic char is a similar fish with a mild, delicate flavor and a texture comparable to salmon, making it a great substitute in this recipe.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild, buttery flavor, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in this recipe.
garlic cloves - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a mild, sweet flavor and can provide a subtle onion and garlic taste to the dish.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can add a savory depth of flavor to the dish, similar to chicken broth.
lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can provide the acidity and tanginess that lemon juice offers in the sauce.
unsalted butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee has a rich, nutty flavor and can add a similar richness and creaminess to the sauce.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can provide a similar sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh dill: Fresh dill can add a bright, herbaceous flavor to the dish, complementing the fish and sauce.
lemon slices - Substitute with orange slices: Orange slices can provide a citrusy garnish and a pop of color, similar to lemon slices.

Plating Ideas for a Stunning Presentation

Elevate the salmon fillets: Carefully place the seared salmon fillets on the plate, ensuring they are positioned elegantly and with precision.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Artfully drizzle the garlic lemon sauce: Using a spoon, delicately drizzle the flavorful garlic lemon sauce over the salmon, creating an enticing visual presentation.
Add a touch of citrus: Place a few thinly sliced lemon pieces on the plate to enhance the visual appeal and provide a hint of citrus aroma.
Incorporate negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the vibrant colors of the dish to stand out and captivate the eye.
Use complementary side dishes: Pair the seared salmon with complementary side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or a vibrant salad, to create a visually appealing and well-balanced presentation.
Focus on plate composition: Pay attention to the composition of the plate, ensuring that each element is strategically placed to create a visually stunning and harmonious presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Preparing Seared Salmon

Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used for lifting, spreading, or flipping ingredients while cooking.
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan with sloping sides, typically used for frying, sautéing, or searing ingredients.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for making sauces, boiling liquids, or reheating food.
Whisk: A kitchen tool with a handle and wire loops, used for beating, blending, or whipping ingredients.
Paper towels: Absorbent disposable towels used for drying and cleaning surfaces, as well as patting dry ingredients.
Non-stick skillet: A frying pan with a non-stick coating, designed to prevent food from sticking during cooking.
Food thermometer: A tool used to measure the internal temperature of food, ensuring it is cooked to a safe level.
Cutting board: A durable board used as a surface for cutting, slicing, and preparing ingredients.
Knife: A sharp-edged utensil used for cutting, slicing, and chopping various food items.
Measuring spoons: Utensils used to measure small amounts of liquid or dry ingredients accurately.
Measuring cup: A container with graduated markings used to measure liquid or dry ingredients accurately.
Olive oil: A healthy cooking oil made from pressed olives, commonly used for sautéing, dressing, and flavoring dishes.
Lemon squeezer: A tool used to extract juice from lemons, providing a convenient way to add fresh citrus flavor to dishes.

Storing and Freezing Leftover Seared Salmon

To store leftover seared salmon, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
When storing the garlic lemon sauce, transfer it to a separate airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat the sauce gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
To freeze the seared salmon, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
It is not recommended to freeze the garlic lemon sauce, as the texture and consistency may change upon thawing. It is best to prepare the sauce fresh when needed.
To reheat frozen seared salmon, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat the thawed salmon in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan to prevent the fish from drying out. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through.

How To Reheat Leftover Seared Salmon with Garlic Lemon Sauce

Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the leftover salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil or place a pat of butter on top of each fillet to prevent drying out. Loosely cover the salmon with foil and reheat in the oven for about 15 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
For a quicker method, you can use the microwave. Place the salmon on a microwave-safe plate and drizzle with a small amount of water or lemon juice to maintain moisture. Cover the plate with a damp paper towel and microwave on medium power (50%) for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the salmon to dry out and become rubbery.
If you have a steamer basket, you can also reheat the salmon using this method. Fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a simmer. Place the leftover salmon in the steamer basket, cover, and steam for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and texture of the salmon.
To reheat the garlic lemon sauce, pour it into a small saucepan and heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the sauce appears too thick, you can add a small amount of chicken broth or water to thin it out. Alternatively, you can microwave the sauce in a microwave-safe bowl in 15-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to check the internal temperature of the salmon to ensure it has reached a safe temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once heated, serve the salmon with the warm garlic lemon sauce, and enjoy your leftovers!

Fascinating Trivia About Seared Salmon

Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health.

Is Making Seared Salmon at Home Cost-Effective?

This seared salmon with garlic lemon sauce recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of salmon fillets and lemon juice may increase the cost, but the dish's flavor and nutritional value justify the expense. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30. The dish's versatility and health benefits make it a worthwhile investment. Overall Verdict: 8.

Is Seared Salmon with Garlic Lemon Sauce Healthy?

The seared salmon with garlic lemon sauce recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering several nutritional benefits:

Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart and brain health
The recipe uses minimal added fat, with only 2 teaspoons of olive oil and 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
Garlic and lemon juice provide flavor without adding significant calories or unhealthy ingredients
Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and provides additional vitamins and minerals

However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:

The recipe calls for chicken broth, which may contain added sodium. Using low-sodium or homemade chicken broth would be a healthier alternative
While unsalted butter is used, the recipe still contains a moderate amount of saturated fat. Reducing the amount of butter or replacing some of it with additional olive oil could help lower the saturated fat content
Honey adds a touch of sweetness but also contributes to the overall sugar content. The amount used is small, but it could be omitted if desired

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Serve the salmon with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the meal
Use whole grain or vegetable-based sides, such as quinoa or zucchini noodles, instead of refined carbohydrates like white rice or pasta
Experiment with additional herbs and spices, such as dill or cayenne pepper, to add flavor without relying on salt or fat
Consider grilling the salmon instead of pan-searing to reduce the amount of added fat needed during cooking

Editor's Take on This Delightful Salmon Recipe

The seared salmon with garlic lemon sauce recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The salmon is perfectly seared to create a crispy exterior while maintaining a tender, flaky interior. The garlic lemon sauce adds a bright and tangy element that complements the richness of the salmon. The dish is beautifully balanced and showcases the natural flavors of the ingredients. It's a simple yet elegant dish that is sure to impress any seafood lover.

Enhance Your Seared Salmon with Garlic Lemon Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, perfect for soaking up the delicious lemon butter sauce.

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful and flavorful roasted vegetables, seasoned with herbs and olive oil, to complement the seared salmon.

Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty and fluffy quinoa pilaf, mixed with toasted almonds and dried cranberries, adding a delightful crunch to the meal.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Seared Salmon

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette before grilling for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Braised Beef Short Ribs: Slow cook the beef short ribs in a rich red wine and tomato sauce until they are fall-off-the-bone tender and full of flavor.

Mango Coconut Panna Cotta: Create a creamy and tropical dessert by combining coconut milk and fresh mango puree for a refreshing and indulgent treat.

Butternut Squash Soup: Roast the butternut squash with aromatic spices before blending into a velvety smooth soup, perfect for a cozy night in.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken: Rub the chicken with a zesty lemon garlic marinade before roasting to golden perfection for a simple yet flavorful main dish.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Seared Salmon

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your taste buds with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Each bite is a burst of deliciousness that will leave you craving for more.

Caprese Skewers: Indulge in the perfect combination of fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all skewered together and drizzled with a balsamic glaze. These caprese skewers are a refreshing and elegant appetizer that will impress any guest.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and decadent texture will satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.

Apple Pie: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a classic apple pie, with a flaky golden crust and a sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple filling. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess.

Why trust this Seared Salmon with Garlic Lemon Sauce Recipe:

This recipe guarantees succulent salmon fillets seared to perfection, ensuring a delightful dining experience. The garlic and lemon juice infuse the dish with vibrant flavors, while the use of unsalted butter and chicken broth adds richness and depth. The meticulous instructions ensure that each step is executed flawlessly, resulting in a dish that is both visually appealing and tantalizing to the taste buds. With the addition of fresh parsley and a garnish of lemon slices, this recipe promises a restaurant-quality meal that will undoubtedly impress even the most discerning palates.

If you want to share your thoughts and experiences on making this Recipe Sharing recipe, head over to our Recipe Sharing forum and join the discussion about this delicious Seared Salmon with Garlic Lemon Sauce dish.

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a different type of fish such as trout or halibut, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Can I substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth to make it vegetarian-friendly without compromising the flavor of the dish.

Is it okay to use dried parsley instead of fresh parsley?

While fresh parsley is preferred for its vibrant flavor and color, you can use dried parsley if that's what you have on hand. Just use a smaller amount, as dried herbs are more potent than fresh ones.

Can I prepare the garlic lemon sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic lemon sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

The salmon is cooked through when it easily flakes with a fork and the flesh is opaque. Be careful not to overcook it, as it can become dry.