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Lemon Dill Pan-Seared Salmon

This dish features salmon fillets cooked with crispy skin and tender flesh, finished with a bright citrus and fresh dill glaze. The recipe involves pan-searing the salmon to develop a golden crust, then infusing it with zesty lemon and herbal flavors for a flavorful, flaky final presentation.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: International
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets salmon fillets skin-on
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing
  • 1 lemon lemon zest and juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped
  • to taste salt
  • to taste black pepper

Equipment

  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Lemon zester or grater
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure crisp skin, then season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
  2. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and just starting to smoke.
  3. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the hot pan, pressing gently to ensure full contact. Sear without moving for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crisp and golden brown.
  4. Flip the fillets carefully using tongs or a spatula, then cook for another 3-4 minutes until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  5. While the salmon finishes cooking, zest the lemon directly over the skillet to release the citrus oils, then squeeze in lemon juice for a fresh, tangy flavor.
  6. Sprinkle the chopped dill and lemon zest over the salmon, allowing the herbs to mingle with the citrus and fragrance to develop.
  7. Remove the salmon from the skillet and transfer to a serving plate, spooning any pan juices and herbal citrus mixture over top for added flavor.
  8. Garnish with extra dill if desired, then serve immediately with your favorite sides for a bright, flavorful meal.

Notes

Ensure the skillet is properly preheated for a good sear. Do not overcook the salmon to maintain tender, flaky flesh. For extra brightness, add a few lemon slices to the pan during the final minutes of cooking.