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Easy One Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon

one pan lemon garlic salmon - featured image

A quick and flavorful one-pan salmon recipe featuring zesty lemon, garlic, and a buttery sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skin-on salmon fillets (6 ounces / 170 grams each)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large lemon, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or dill (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  4. Add the salmon skin-side down and sear for 4-5 minutes without moving to develop a crispy skin.
  5. Flip the salmon fillets carefully using tongs or a spatula.
  6. Add minced garlic around the fillets, letting it sizzle gently without burning.
  7. Place lemon slices on top of the salmon and drizzle with lemon juice and remaining olive oil.
  8. Dot the butter evenly over the fillets so it melts into the sauce.
  9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 6-8 minutes, until salmon flakes easily with a fork (add a couple of minutes for extra thick fillets).
  10. Remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle fresh parsley or dill and red pepper flakes if using.
  11. Gently shake the pan to coat everything in the buttery, garlicky lemon sauce.
  12. Serve immediately, using a spatula to lift salmon and some sauce from the pan.

Notes

Pat salmon dry before searing for a crispy skin. Add garlic after flipping to avoid burning. Let salmon rest at room temperature 10-15 minutes before cooking for even cooking. If skillet is crowded, cook in batches to keep skin crispy. Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor. Butter adds a silky finish; do not skimp.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon, lemon garlic salmon, one pan salmon, quick salmon recipe, healthy dinner, easy salmon, weeknight meal