She Strengthens

Quick, Easy, and Delicious: Pan-Seared Salmon in 5 Simple Steps

When it comes to healthy weeknight meals, pan-seared salmon is a top contender. With a cooking time of just 10 minutes, you can have a perfectly seasoned, buttery fillet with crispy skin on your plate in no time. And the best part? It only takes five easy steps to achieve this culinary masterpiece.

The Secret to a Mess-Free Kitchen

While pan-searing salmon can be a bit messy due to oil splatters, there’s a simple solution: use a splatter screen to protect your stove, hands, and clothing. And if you’re worried about the fishy smell lingering in your apartment, just open a window and turn on the fan above your stove. Problem solved!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following essentials: a medium-size skillet, olive oil, butter, a salmon fillet (about 6 ounces per person), salt, and pepper. Optional but delicious additions include lemon slices or chopped fresh herbs.

Tips for a Perfect Sear

To get that perfect sear, blot the salmon fillet with a paper towel to dry it before seasoning. Then, make sure your pan is scorching hot before adding the fillet. When cooking, resist the temptation to mess with the fish until it’s ready to flip. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are brown and it lifts easily from the pan.

The 5-Step Cooking Process

Step 1: Heat Up Your Pan
Add 1 teaspoon of olive oil to a heavy skillet and swirl it around to coat the surface. Turn the heat to medium-high and let it heat up for 3 minutes or until the oil starts to shimmer and pale wisps of smoke rise. Then, add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt.

Step 2: Season to Perfection
Season your salmon fillet with salt, pepper, and any other spices you love. Garlic powder is always a great addition!

Step 3: Cook and Flip
Place the fillet in the skillet, skin side down (if it has skin). Cook for 3 to 5 minutes or until about half of the fillet turns a light pink color. Use a spatula or tongs to flip it over.

Step 4: Finish Cooking
Cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes on the second side, depending on the thickness of the fillet. You’ll know it’s ready when the flesh flakes with a fork but is still translucent in the center. Alternatively, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be around 125 degrees.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the fillet to a plate and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Top it with lemon, pair it with a healthy grain like quinoa or brown rice, and add some steamed veggies for a well-rounded meal. Voilà!