Pan Seared Salmon

Serves 4 • Adapted from Well Plated (wellplated.com)

Ingredients

• 4 (6 to 8 oz) salmon fillets (skin on)
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt 
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 tsp cooking oil – either canola, grapeseed, avocado, or another high smoke point cooking oil
• 1 lemon (cut into wedges)
• Optional: Chopped fresh parsley, basil, or dill for serving

Instructions

1. Remove the salmon from the refrigerator and stand at room temperature for at least 10 minutes. With a paper towel, pat the fillets very dry on both sides.
2. Heat the butter and oil in 12-inch cast iron or heavy stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat until the butter foams and the foam subsides, about 3 minutes. It’s important the pan is VERY hot before you add the salmon, or it won’t taste crispy.
3. Before adding it to the pan, season the flesh side of the salmon with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and pepper.
4. Carefully place the fillets in the skillet, skin-side up, lowering them down away from you to protect yourself from splatters. Sprinkle the skin side of the salmon with a pinch of kosher salt.
5. Let the salmon cook on the first side completely undisturbed until the flesh appears cooked about 3/4 of the way up the fillet, about 5 to 6 minutes. With a fish spatula or a similar long, wide, flexible spatula, carefully flip the fillets. They should release easily from the pan. If they are sticking, the salmon likely isn’t ready yet, and you should let it cook another 30 seconds or so, then try again.
6. Reduce the pan heat to medium. Cook the salmon on the other side for 2 to 4 minutes until it is done to your liking. Remove to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes. Squeeze lemon over the top and sprinkle with herbs. Serve hot or at room temperature.