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Pan-Seared Salmon with Dill Cream Sauce

pan-seared salmon with dill cream sauce - featured image

A quick and easy pan-seared salmon recipe featuring crispy skin and a fresh, tangy dill cream sauce, perfect for a healthy and impressive dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skin-on salmon fillets, about 6 ounces (170 grams) each
  • Salt and black pepper, to season
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
  • ½ cup (120 ml) sour cream (can substitute Greek yogurt)
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Let sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped dill, lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Stir until smooth, cover, and chill in the fridge.
  3. Heat a non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and butter. Wait until butter foams and oil shimmers (2-3 minutes).
  4. Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the pan. Press gently with a spatula for 10 seconds to prevent curling. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until skin is crisp and golden.
  5. Flip the fillets carefully and cook for an additional 2-4 minutes depending on thickness and desired doneness.
  6. Transfer salmon to a warm plate and let rest for 2 minutes.
  7. Serve each fillet with a generous dollop of chilled dill cream sauce. Garnish with extra dill or lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Pat salmon dry thoroughly and preheat pan well to achieve crispy skin. Flip salmon only once. Fresh dill is preferred over dried for best flavor. Sauce can be made ahead and chilled. For dairy-free version, substitute sour cream and mayo with coconut yogurt and vegan mayo.

Nutrition

Keywords: pan-seared salmon, dill cream sauce, quick dinner, healthy salmon recipe, crispy salmon skin, easy seafood recipe