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Lemon-Brown Butter Salmon

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Tender, flaky salmon seared in nutty brown butter and finished with fresh lemon juice and zest for a bright, elegant dish that comes together in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • Lemon slices, for serving

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter.
  3. Allow the butter to melt and continue cooking, swirling occasionally, until it turns golden brown and smells nutty.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes.
  6. Carefully flip the salmon and cook for another 3–4 minutes, depending on thickness, until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
  7. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon and sprinkle with lemon zest.
  8. Spoon the brown butter sauce over each fillet and garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices before serving.

Notes

  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
  • Stir in 1 teaspoon of honey for a slight sweetness.
  • For a baked version, sear briefly then finish in a 375°F oven for 5–7 minutes.
  • Capers make a delicious briny addition.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat gently at low temperature to prevent drying out.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/lemon-brown-butter-salmon/