Pan-Seared Salmon with Herb Butter

Crispy-skinned, tender-fleshed salmon in 15 minutes. The herb butter — a compound of garlic, lemon zest, and fresh herbs — elevates this simple weeknight dish into something you would order at a restaurant.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets (180g each), skin on
• Salt and black pepper
• 2 tbsp neutral oil (vegetable or grapeseed)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, smashed
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges to serve

Instructions

1. Pat salmon dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat oil in a stainless or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3. Place salmon skin-side down. Press gently with a spatula for the first 30 seconds to prevent curling.
4. Cook undisturbed for 4 minutes until skin is crispy and flesh is opaque halfway up.
5. Flip, reduce heat to medium, and cook 2 more minutes.
6. Add butter and garlic. Tilt pan and baste salmon with melted butter for 1 minute.
7. Add lemon juice and fresh herbs. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.