Skillet Lemon Butter Salmon

Succulent salmon fillets and tender asparagus are seared in a zesty lemon-butter sauce for a bright, cozy dinner ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknights and bursting with fresh citrus flavor.

This recipe has become a favorite weeknight dinner in my family because of its simplicity and fresh taste.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets: 4 fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
• Asparagus: 1 lb (450 g), trimmed
• Lemon: 1, zested and juiced
• Garlic cloves: 2, minced
• Unsalted butter: 3 tbsp
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Sea salt: 1/2 tsp plus more to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
• Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/4 tsp (optional)
• Lemon slices: for serving
• Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped

Instructions

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Step 1:

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

Step 2:

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 3:

Add asparagus and sauté for 3 4 minutes, turning occasionally, until just tender. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Remove asparagus to a plate and cover to keep warm.

Step 4:

Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Place salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on) and cook for 3 4 minutes without moving, until the skin is crispy and the bottom is golden.

Step 5:

Flip the salmon and add remaining butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 2 3 minutes, spooning the melted lemon-butter over the top as it cooks.

Step 6:

Pour in lemon juice and simmer for 1 2 minutes, until the salmon is just cooked through and the sauce is glossy.

Step 7:

Return asparagus to the skillet, nestling around the salmon. Warm through for 1 minute.

Step 8:

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices.

Create smooth frozen drinks, slushies, and frappés for desserts and parties using juices, coffee, or wine.

Check price on Amazon

Create smooth frozen drinks, slushies, and frappés for desserts and parties using juices, coffee, or wine.

Check price on Amazon

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My family enjoys gathering around the table to eat this dish together, especially on busy weeknights.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the pan with the lemon juice. Substitute green beans or broccolini for asparagus if desired. Pairs well with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread.

Required Tools

Large skillet, tongs or spatula, zester or grater, measuring spoons, knife and cutting board.

Allergen Information

Contains fish and dairy (butter). For dairy-free option, substitute butter with plant-based alternative. Always check labels for hidden allergens.

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Melt chocolate or cheese smoothly for dipping fruits, pretzels, and snacks during desserts and parties.

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This skillet lemon-butter salmon is a quick, flavorful meal that your whole family will love.

Saffron Brook Recipe Q&As

→ How do I prevent the salmon from sticking to the skillet?

Make sure the skillet and oil are hot before adding the salmon. Pat the fillets dry and avoid moving them too soon to allow a crispy crust to form.

→ Can I use other vegetables instead of asparagus?

Yes, green beans or broccolini work well as substitutes and can be cooked in the same manner.

→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative while keeping the olive oil and lemon juice for flavor.

→ What is the best way to serve this dish?

Serve it immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices, alongside grains like rice or quinoa, or with crusty bread.

→ How do I adjust the spice level in the sauce?

Omit or reduce the crushed red pepper flakes to lower the heat, or add more if you prefer a spicier finish.