Are you craving a delicious and healthy meal that's ready in under 20 minutes? Look no further! This pan-seared salmon recipe, inspired by Chef Oded Talmor's emphasis on fresh ingredients and simple techniques, is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It’s a fantastic example of how homemade cooking can be both easy and incredibly satisfying, delivering a restaurant-quality dish without the restaurant price tag. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and healthy meals that don't compromise on flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off (your preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional, but highly recommended!)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps achieve a beautiful sear. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
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Sear the Salmon: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets) in the hot pan. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes, until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
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Flip and Finish: Gently flip the salmon fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillets. For perfectly cooked salmon, use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
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Add Lemon and Dill: Remove the salmon from the skillet and transfer to a plate. Add the lemon juice to the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the fresh dill (if using).
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Serve: Pour the lemon-dill sauce over the salmon fillets and serve immediately. This simple yet flavorful dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a simple salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pan-Seared Salmon:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the salmon fillets for even cooking. If necessary, cook them in batches.
- Use high-quality olive oil: A good olive oil will enhance the flavor of your salmon.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your salmon is cooked to your liking. Overcooked salmon will be dry and tough.
Variations:
- Spicy Salmon: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Salmon: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
- Lemon-Herb Salmon: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
This easy salmon recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and healthy meals. It's a testament to the fact that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated. It's a great example of how simple, fresh ingredients can create a truly memorable meal. Enjoy!