Seared Salmon with Lemon and Herbs
This is a simple, yet elegant dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal. The salmon is seared until the skin is crispy and the flesh is cooked through, then topped with a flavorful sauce made with lemon, herbs, capers, and white wine.
The origins of this dish are somewhat murky, but it is thought to have originated in France in the early 19th century. At that time, salmon was a popular fish among the upper classes, and it was often served with a sauce made with lemon, herbs, and capers. Over time, this dish became more popular among the general population, and it is now a classic of French cuisine.
Seared Salmon with Lemon and Herbs Seared Salmon with Lemon and Herbs Seared Salmon with Lemon and Herbs Seared Salmon with Lemon and Herbs
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 15 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 pound salmon fillet, skin-on
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as thyme, oregano, or basil)
  • 1 tablespoon capers, drained
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine
Instructions
  1. Preheat a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels.
  3. Season the salmon fillet with salt and pepper.
  4. Add the olive oil to the skillet and swirl to coat.
  5. Add the salmon fillet to the skillet, skin-side down, and sear for 3-4 minutes, or until the skin is crispy.
  6. Flip the salmon fillet and sear for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.
  7. Transfer the salmon fillet to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
  8. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, herbs, capers, and white wine to the skillet.
  9. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  10. Spoon the sauce over the salmon fillet and serve immediately.
Why It Works
  • The skin-on salmon fillet is seared until crispy, which adds flavor and texture to the dish.
  • The sauce is made with lemon, herbs, capers, and white wine, which creates a flavorful and balanced sauce that complements the salmon.
  • The dish is simple to prepare and can be made in under 30 minutes.