How to Make the Perfect Pan Seared Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce
American · Easy · 20 min · 4 servings
Crispy-skinned salmon fillets are pan seared to golden perfection and topped with a bright and creamy lemon dill sauce. This elegant yet simple dish comes together in just 20 minutes and is packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Why this recipe works
This Pan Seared Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce 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 420 calories with 38g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 4 fillets salmon skin-on about 6 oz each
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 0.5 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp fresh dill chopped
- 1 whole lemon zested and juiced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Pat salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels on all sides. Season generously with salt and pepper. Drying the fish is critical to achieving a crispy sear rather than steaming.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Dill Sauce
In a small bowl combine sour cream, fresh dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Stir well to combine, season with salt and pepper, and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 3: Sear the Salmon
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place salmon skin-side down and press gently with a spatula for the first 30 seconds. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes on the skin side, then flip and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until done to your liking.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Remove salmon from heat and let it rest for 2 minutes before plating. Spoon the chilled lemon dill sauce generously over each fillet and serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- sour cream → full-fat Greek yogurt for a lighter but equally creamy sauce
- fresh dill → fresh tarragon or chives for a different herbal flavor profile
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not patting the salmon dry before searing, which creates steam and prevents the formation of a crispy crust
- Moving the salmon around the pan too frequently instead of letting it develop a proper sear on each side
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 420 calories, 38g protein, 4g carbs, 27g fat, 0g fiber.
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