How to Make the Perfect Keto Salmon
American · Easy · 20 min · 4 servings
Pan-seared salmon fillets with a lemon herb butter sauce that comes together in just 20 minutes. This omega-3 rich dish is elegant enough for company and easy enough for any weeknight.
Why this recipe works
This Keto Salmon recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 20 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 380 calories with 34g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 9 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 4 whole salmon fillets skin-on
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 clove garlic minced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh dill chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Prep the Salmon
Pat salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
Heat olive oil in a large stainless steel or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and just begins to smoke.
Step 3: Sear the Salmon
Place salmon skin-side up in the hot pan. Cook undisturbed for 4 minutes until a golden crust forms. Flip carefully and cook skin-side down for 3 to 4 more minutes.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Herb Butter
Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter and garlic to the pan. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, then stir in lemon juice and lemon zest. Spoon sauce over the salmon repeatedly for 1 minute.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Remove salmon from heat and sprinkle with fresh dill. Spoon remaining pan sauce over each fillet. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- fresh dill → fresh parsley or chives for a milder herb flavor
- butter → coconut oil for a fully dairy-free preparation
- lemon juice → lime juice for a slightly different citrus profile
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Do not move the salmon in the pan before the crust forms or it will stick and tear
- Do not cook salmon straight from the refrigerator as cold fish cooks unevenly
- Do not overcook the salmon as it should still be slightly translucent in the very center
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 380 calories, 34g protein, 2g carbs, 26g fat, 0g fiber.
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