Effortless Salmon Garlic Butter (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Salmon

01 - 4 salmon fillets, each weighing 6-8 ounces, with or without skin
02 - A sprinkle of salt, as needed
03 - A dash of black pepper, as needed
04 - 2 tbsp of olive oil
05 - 1 tsp of paprika, optional

→ Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

06 - 4 minced garlic cloves
07 - 1/4 cup of squeezed lemon juice (roughly 2 lemons)
08 - Zest from one lemon
09 - 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
10 - 2 tbsp of chopped fresh parsley
11 - Salt, as needed
12 - Black pepper, as needed

# Instructions:

01 - Use a paper towel to pat the salmon fillets until dry. Generously sprinkle both sides with paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper.
02 - Warm 2 tbsp of olive oil in a big skillet that can go in the oven, keeping the heat medium-high. Once it’s hot, add the salmon carefully, placing it skin-side down if it has skin. Let it cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until golden. Flip and sear another 2-3 minutes on the other side.
03 - If your skillet is oven-safe, pop it directly into an oven preheated to 190°C (375°F). If it’s not, move the salmon to a heatproof dish. Bake for 10-12 minutes until it easily pulls apart with a fork and the middle looks slightly cloudy.
04 - In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup butter. Toss in the garlic and cook for a minute or two until it smells amazing, making sure it doesn’t brown. Mix in the lemon juice and zest, simmering 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Add salt and pepper to suit your taste.
05 - Take the cooked salmon from the pan or dish and spoon the lemon butter sauce all over it. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a final touch.
06 - Serve right away with your choice of sides. Steamed veggies, a salad, or mashed potatoes work perfectly.

# Notes:

01 - You’ll know the salmon is ready if it flakes effortlessly with a fork and has a slightly cloudy center.