Pan-Fried Salmon

  • Level: Easy
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Total: 27 min
  • Prep: 10 min
  • Inactive: 10 min
  • Cook: 7 min
This easy technique is the best way to perfectly pan-fry salmon at home. Start by looking for center-cut fillets that are about 1-inch thick (thinner pieces will cook quicker). Be sure to properly store your fish: if you bought it fresh then keep it wrapped in the paper from the grocery store and nestle it into ice cubes in the refrigerator. Let the salmon sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes to take the chill off before cooking (it’s a chef’s secret). This little warm-up will help your fish cook more evenly. Be sure to use a nonstick pan so the fillets slide out nicely. Serve with your favorite prepared sauce or stretch the salmon by shredding it into pieces with a fork to add to salads and grain bowls.
Advertisement

Ingredients

4 (5-ounce) center-cut salmon fillets (about 1-inch-thick), skin on or off

2 tablespoons olive oil

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions

  1. Bring the salmon to room temperature 10 minutes before cooking. 
  2. Warm a large nonstick skillet with oil over medium-low heat. Season the fish with salt and pepper. Raise the heat to medium-high. Place the salmon, skin-side up in the pan. Cook until golden brown on 1 side, about 4 minutes. Turn the fish over with a spatula, and cook until it feels firm to the touch and the skin is crisp if desired, about 3 minutes more. 
  3. The skin can be served or removed easily with a knife or spoon. 
  4. Transfer to a plate and serve as desired.

Cook’s Note

Serving suggestions: honey mustard, horseradish mashed potatoes, mesclun greens.

Let's Get Cooking!

Sign up for the Recipe of the Day newsletter to receive editor-picked recipes,tips and videos delivered to your inbox daily. Privacy Policy

Thanks for subscribing to the Recipe of the Day newsletter. Check out all our other great newsletters from Easy Recipes, Healthy Eating Ideas and Chef Recipe Videos.

We're sorry, there was an error signing you up. Please try again later.

Advertisement

Kerry

Easy to follow recipe. Salmon was cooked perfectly.

See All Reviews