PanSeared Salmon

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets (6 ounces each), skin-on
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Fresh herbs (such as dill or parsley), for garnish (optional)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Begin by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This step helps ensure a good sear.
2. Season both sides of the salmon fillets generously with salt and pepper.
3. Preheat a cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil to the pan and let it heat up for a minute or two until shimmering.
4. Gently place the salmon fillets, skin-side down, into the hot pan. Be cautious, as the oil might splatter a bit.
5. Cook the salmon for 4-5 minutes on the skin side. This allows the skin to crisp up nicely.
6. Carefully flip the salmon fillets over using a spatula, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the flesh side.
7. Add the butter to the pan, and let it melt. Tilt the pan slightly and spoon the melted butter over the salmon to baste it.
8. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, spooning the butter over the fish regularly. This will give the salmon a beautiful buttery flavor.
9. Once the salmon is cooked to your desired doneness (it should be slightly pink and opaque in the center), remove it from the pan and transfer it to a plate.
10. Garnish the salmon with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
11. Squeeze some lemon juice over the salmon just before eating to brighten the flavors.

Flavor profile:

This pan-seared salmon recipe results in a crispy skin and tender, juicy flesh. The simple seasoning of salt and pepper allows the natural flavors of the salmon to shine. The addition of butter enhances the richness of the fish, while the lemon adds a refreshing citrusy note. This dish is perfect for seafood lovers and is sure to impress with its simplicity and delectable taste. Enjoy!

If you have any further questions or need any adjustments to the recipe, please let me know!