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Lemon Herb Salmon

Lemon Herb Salmon
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Lemon Herb Salmon is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish featuring tender salmon fillets marinated in fresh lemon juice, zest, garlic, and fragrant herbs. This recipe offers a perfectly seared, juicy salmon with bright citrus notes and herbaceous aromas, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or elegant occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 fresh salmon fillets (preferably skin-on, about 6 ounces each)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for cooking)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes for heat

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Zest and juice fresh lemons. Mince the garlic cloves and finely chop the dill, parsley, and thyme. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
  2. Marinate the Salmon: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and chopped herbs. Season the salmon fillets lightly with salt and black pepper, then coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Allow to sit and marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  3. Heat the Pan: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. This prepares the pan for a crispy, golden crust on the salmon without sticking.
  4. Sear the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the hot pan, pressing gently to ensure full contact. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the skin is crispy and easily releases from the pan.
  5. Flip and Finish Cooking: Carefully flip the salmon fillets and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork but remains moist inside. Optionally, splash extra lemon juice over the fillets in the last minute for added brightness.

Notes

  • Use room temperature salmon for even cooking.
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan to help fillets crisp properly.
  • Pat salmon dry to prevent steaming and ensure a good sear.
  • Fresh herbs enhance flavor significantly compared to dried.
  • Do not overcook salmon to maintain moisture and tenderness.
  • Keep the salmon skin crispy for added texture and nutrients.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon herb salmon, healthy salmon recipe, quick salmon dinner, pan-seared salmon, omega-3 rich meal

Find it online: https://jamescookes.com/lemon-herb-salmon/