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Garlic Lemon Herb Pan-Fried Salmon

A quick pan-fried salmon with garlic, lemon, and fresh parsley for a bright, flavorful weeknight main.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 3 Tbsp avocado oil
  • 1 1/2 lbs salmon cut into fillets
  • 2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt or to taste
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lemon zested
  • 2 Tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley chopped

Instructions

  • Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with sea salt, onion powder, and black pepper.
  • Heat 3 Tbsp avocado oil in a large 12-inch stainless steel or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  • Carefully place the salmon fillets flesh-side down in the hot skillet and cook 2–3 minutes, until the sides start to turn opaque.
  • Flip the fillets and cook the second side about 2 minutes; reduce heat to medium or medium-low if the pan is smoking or the salmon browns too quickly.
  • Add the minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped parsley to the skillet and gently stir or spoon the mixture around the fillets to combine flavors.
  • Cover the skillet and continue cooking 2–5 minutes, until the salmon reaches your desired doneness (opaque and flaky throughout).
  • Remove from heat and serve immediately with your preferred side dishes.

Equipment

  • 12-inch stainless steel or cast-iron skillet
  • Spatula or fish turner
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Zester or grater

Notes

  • Use a 12-inch skillet for even searing.
  • Adjust salt to taste.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.
  • Cook times vary by fillet thickness.