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Keto Lemon Butter Salmon

This vibrant dish features tender, flaky salmon seared to crispy perfection and topped with a bright, buttery lemon sauce. The process involves searing the fish and creating a glossy, zesty butter glaze that enhances the natural richness of the salmon, resulting in an elegant yet quick meal with a moist interior and crisp skin.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Keto
Servings 2
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Spatula
  • Small bowl
  • Spoon
  • Plate

Ingredients
  

  • 2 fillets salmon fillets preferably skin-on
  • 1 lemon lemon for juice and zest
  • 2 tbsp butter unsalted preferred
  • 1 clove garlic minced, optional
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1/2 lemon lemon zest from half a lemon
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for searing
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning
  • optional fresh herbs parsley or dill, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Set aside.
  • Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Once the oil shimmers and just begins to smoke, carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down. Press gently to ensure contact with the pan.
  • Sear the salmon for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden. You’ll notice the color change and a delightful sizzle. Flip the fillets carefully using a spatula, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily.
  • Remove the cooked salmon from the skillet and place on a plate to rest briefly. Keep warm while you prepare the lemon butter sauce.
  • Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, with a gentle sizzle. Then, squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and add the lemon zest, stirring to loosen any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  • Pour in the butter and let it melt slowly, swirling the pan to create a glossy, fragrant lemon butter sauce. Cook for about 1 minute until slightly thickened and fragrant.
  • Return the salmon to the skillet, spooning the lemon butter sauce over the top. Let it sit for a minute so the flavors meld and the fish stays moist and flavorful.
  • Garnish with chopped herbs if desired, and serve immediately with a drizzle of the lemon butter sauce. The skin should be crispy, the flesh tender and flaky, with a vibrant, glossy lemon glaze.