Pan-Seared Salmon with Crispy Skin

Pan-Seared Salmon with Crispy Skin

Discover the perfect balance of elegance and simplicity with this Pan-Seared Salmon. Copper River salmon's rich flavor shines beneath a golden, crispy skin, while tender-crisp garlic green beans provide the ideal complement. Ready in minutes yet impressive enough for special occasions, this dish proves that sometimes the simplest preparations create the most memorable meals.

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• 2 (6-ounce) Copper River salmon fillets, skin-on
• Kosher salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 tablespoon high-heat oil (avocado or grapeseed)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Lemon wedges for serving
• Fresh herbs for garnish

For the Garlic Green Beans:

• 12 ounces fresh green beans, ends trimmed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh lemon juice

Instructions

Prepare the Salmon:

1. Pat salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels, paying special attention to the skin side.
2. Using a sharp knife, score the skin with shallow cuts about ½ inch apart to prevent curling.
3. Season both sides of the salmon with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper only.
4. Let the seasoned salmon rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking.

Cook the Salmon:

1. Heat a non-stick or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the high-heat oil and heat until shimmering.
3. Place salmon in the pan skin-side down.
4. Press gently with a fish spatula to ensure even contact with the pan.
5. Do not move the salmon for 3-4 minutes to develop crispy skin.
6. Flip the salmon and cook for just 2 more minutes for medium doneness.
7. Remove from pan and let rest on a plate.

Cook the Green Beans:

1. In the same pan with the residual salmon oil, add green beans.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and minced garlic.
3. Toss the beans for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Plating:

1. Warm a plate for serving.
2. Arrange the garlic green beans in a neat row across the center of the plate.
3. Place the salmon on top with the crispy skin facing up.
4. Garnish with fresh herb leaves.
5. Add a squeeze of lemon just before serving.

Doneness Test

The salmon should flake easily with a fork but still be slightly translucent in the center. For 6-ounce portions, total cooking time is about 6 minutes.