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Pan Seared Salmon with Creamy Lemon

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Pan Seared Salmon with Creamy Lemon is a quick and elegant dish featuring crispy salmon fillets topped with a smooth, tangy lemon cream sauce. It’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, delivering bright flavor and indulgent comfort in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

  1. 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin on or off)
  2. Salt and black pepper, to taste
  3. 1 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter (for searing)
  4. 2 garlic cloves, minced
  5. 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  6. 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  7. 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
  8. 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
  9. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional, for richness)
  10. 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Pat salmon fillets dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.

  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Place salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin) and cook for 4–5 minutes until crispy and golden. Flip and cook an additional 2–3 minutes until just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. In the same pan, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add heavy cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and Dijon mustard (if using). Stir well and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. If using, stir in grated Parmesan and mix until melted and smooth.
  6. Return salmon to the pan and spoon sauce over the fillets. Cook for 1–2 more minutes to heat through.
  7. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill and serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Notes

  • Fresh lemon juice adds the brightest flavor—use it over bottled if possible.
  • Don’t overcook the salmon—remove from heat once it flakes easily.
  • Deglaze with a splash of white wine before adding cream for extra depth.
  • Add spinach or sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for a veggie boost.
  • This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted veggies.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/pan-seared-salmon-with-creamy-lemon/