Lemon Pepper Salmon Recipe

Lemon Pepper Salmon is a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-prepare dish that brings out the natural richness of salmon with the zesty brightness of lemon and the mild kick of black pepper. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe offers a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and protein.
• Versatile: Can be baked, grilled, or pan-seared to suit your cooking style.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

1. Choose Fresh Salmon: Select fillets that are firm, bright, and have a mild aroma. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
2. Season the Fillets: Drizzle the salmon with olive oil, rubbing it evenly over the fillets. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and lemon zest. Let the salmon rest for 10 minutes to absorb the seasoning.

Step 2: Cooking Methods

1. Baked Lemon Pepper Salmon

1. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
2. Arrange the Salmon: Place the seasoned fillets skin-side down on the prepared sheet. Brush the tops with melted butter and drizzle with lemon juice.
3. Bake: Cook for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
4. Broil for Crispiness: Optional—broil the salmon for an additional 1–2 minutes for a golden, crispy top.

2. Pan-Seared Lemon Pepper Salmon

1. Heat the Pan: Warm a large skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and a tablespoon of butter.
2. Cook the Salmon: Place the fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for 4–5 minutes until the skin is crispy and the edges start to turn opaque.
3. Flip and Finish: Turn the fillets and cook for another 2–3 minutes. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and remove from heat.

3. Grilled Lemon Pepper Salmon

1. Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high heat (375–400°F). Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
2. Grill the Salmon: Place the salmon skin-side down on the grates. Close the lid and cook for 6–8 minutes. Flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
3. Add Flavor: Brush with melted butter and lemon juice before serving.

Step 3: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Sprinkle the salmon with freshly chopped parsley or dill for a burst of color and flavor.
2. Serve: Pair the salmon with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad.

Variations

1. Honey Lemon Pepper Salmon

• Add a tablespoon of honey to the butter-lemon mixture for a touch of sweetness.

2. Spicy Lemon Pepper Salmon

• Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for extra heat.

3. Garlic Herb Lemon Pepper Salmon

• Add fresh minced garlic and herbs like thyme or rosemary to the seasoning mix.

Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overcook: Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it doesn’t exceed 145°F.
2. Skin-On for Crispiness: If using skin-on salmon, searing the skin side first helps lock in moisture and adds texture.
3. Choose the Right Cut: Opt for center-cut fillets for even cooking.
4. Let Rest: Allow the salmon to rest for a few minutes after cooking to redistribute the juices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen salmon?

A: Yes, but thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning to prevent excess moisture.

Q: How do I know if the salmon is fresh?

A: Fresh salmon should have a bright, pinkish-orange color, a firm texture, and a mild, ocean-like aroma.

Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?

A: Substitute butter with vegan butter or additional olive oil.

Why This Recipe Works

This Lemon Pepper Salmon recipe combines simplicity and sophistication. The balance of zesty lemon and bold black pepper enhances the natural richness of salmon, while the cooking methods ensure a tender and juicy texture. Whether baked, grilled, or pan-seared, this dish delivers consistent, mouthwatering results every time.

Yield: 4

Lemon Pepper Salmon Recipe

Print

Lemon Pepper Salmon is a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-prepare dish that brings out the natural richness of salmon with the zesty brightness of lemon and the mild kick of black pepper. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe offers a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon slices (for serving, optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon:
   Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
   
2. Heat the Pan:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   
3. Cook the Salmon:
   Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable. Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving them, allowing the skin to crisp up.
   
4. Flip and Finish Cooking:
   Gently flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
   
5. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:
   In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir until the butter melts and the sauce is smooth.
   
6. Combine:
   Return the cooked salmon to the skillet, spooning the lemon butter sauce over the fillets. Cook for an additional minute to warm through.
   
7. Garnish and Serve:
   Transfer the salmon to a serving platter. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon slices if desired.

Notes

Salmon Options: This recipe works with skin-on or skinless fillets.

Oven Alternative: Bake the seasoned salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, then drizzle with the lemon butter sauce.

Side Suggestions: Serve with steamed asparagus, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.