👩🍳 Instructions
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1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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2
Pat salmon fillets very dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
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3
In a large, oven-safe skillet (cast iron or stainless steel recommended), melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, swirling occasionally, until the butter turns a nutty brown and develops small brown bits at the bottom (this is browned butter). Remove from heat immediately.
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4
Carefully add minced garlic to the browned butter. Return skillet to low heat for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
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5
Increase heat to medium-high. Place salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on) into the hot garlic butter. Sear for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden, and about half of the fillet has turned opaque. If using skinless, sear for 3-4 minutes per side.
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6
Flip the salmon fillets. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for another 6-10 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches your desired doneness (internal temperature 145°F/63°C).
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7
Remove skillet from oven. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over each fillet. Garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley and thinly sliced chives or green onions. Serve immediately, spooning extra garlic butter sauce from the pan over each piece.
💡 Notes
For best results, use fresh, high-quality salmon. If preferred, you can omit browning the butter and just melt it, but browning adds a wonderful depth of flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or a simple side salad. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days and gently reheated in a low oven.
🥗 Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
420 kcal
Protein
38g
Total Fat
28g
Saturated Fat
12g
Carbs
4g
Fiber
1g
Sugar
1g
Sodium
480mg
Cholesterol
105mg
