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Pan Seared Salmon with Brown Sugar Recipe

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3.9 from 8 reviews

A quick and flavorful pan-seared salmon recipe featuring a sweet and spicy brown sugar rub. Crispy skin and tender, flaky flesh make this dish perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Salmon

  • 1 lb salmon fillets (skin on)

Rub and seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Cooking

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • lemon juice (optional for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the salmon: Using a paper towel, pat the salmon fillets dry thoroughly. Lightly rub 1 tablespoon of olive oil on all sides of each fillet to help the seasoning stick and ensure even cooking.
  2. Mix and apply the rub: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt. Season only the flesh side of the fillets evenly with the rub. Let the fillets rest at room temperature to allow the rub to adhere well.
  3. Heat the skillet: Place a large stainless steel or cast iron skillet over medium to medium-high heat. When hot, indicated by water beading on the surface, add about 2 tablespoons of olive oil to coat the bottom of the skillet.
  4. Sear the salmon skin-side down: Carefully place the fillets skin-side down in the hot skillet. Lower heat to medium and do not move the fillets. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the skin is crisp and golden brown.
  5. Flip and finish cooking: Gently flip the fillets using a spatula. Add the butter to the pan and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 120°F for medium rare or 130°F for medium. The salmon should flake easily when done.
  6. Serve: Remove fillets from the skillet immediately and serve hot, optionally squeezing fresh lemon juice over the top for brightness.

Notes

  • Patting the salmon dry is essential to achieve crispy skin.
  • Do not move the salmon while cooking skin-side down to prevent tearing the skin.
  • Use a thermometer to check doneness for perfectly cooked salmon.
  • Lemon juice adds a fresh finish but is optional.
  • Use smoked paprika for a smoky flavor or regular paprika for mild sweetness.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/pan-seared-salmon-with-brown-sugar-recipe/