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Lemon-Caper Salmon Piccata with Garlic-Butter Sauce

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Lemon-caper salmon piccata with garlic-butter sauce is a bright, savory dish that pairs rich, pan-seared salmon with a zesty lemon-caper sauce and a touch of garlic butter. It’s elegant yet easy, perfect for weeknights or entertaining.

Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets (skin on or off)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1–2 lemons)
  • 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
  • 2 tbsp capers, drained
  • 1/3 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat salmon dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon, skin-side down if using, for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet. Once melted, sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir in lemon juice, broth, and capers. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  5. Return salmon to the pan and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer for another 1–2 minutes until heated through.
  6. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon zest before serving.

Notes

  • Add a splash of white wine for extra depth of flavor.
  • Stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream at the end for a creamier sauce.
  • Trout or halibut make great substitutes for salmon.
  • For a lighter version, reduce butter and increase broth slightly.
  • If sauce is too tangy, add a splash of cream or a bit of honey.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/lemon-caper-salmon-piccata-with-garlic-butter-sauce/