Crispy Skin Cast Iron Salmon with Lemon Herb Butter
Achieve perfectly crispy salmon skin every time with this cast iron skillet recipe. Flavored with a bright lemon herb butter, this dish is quick, simple, and packed with flavor, making it ideal for a delicious weeknight meal.
Equipment
- Cast Iron Skillet
- Paper Towels
- Spatula
- Spoon
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 (6-ounce) skin-on salmon fillets about 1-inch thick (wild-caught preferred)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or thyme) (or ½ teaspoon dried herbs)
- ½ lemon for juice and wedges for serving
- Salt to taste
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional Flavor Booster e.g., ½ tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp honey/maple syrup, ½ tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp soy sauce, ¼ tsp chili flakes, or ½ tsp grated fresh ginger
Instructions
Instructions
- Thoroughly pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season liberally on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, then add olive oil and heat until shimmering.
- Place salmon skin-side down, pressing gently for 10-15 seconds to ensure even contact and prevent curling; sear for 4-6 minutes until the skin is crisp and deep golden brown.
- Flip the salmon, then immediately add butter, minced garlic, herbs (and optional flavor boosters); once butter melts, baste the salmon with the mixture for 1-2 minutes.
- Continue cooking for 2-4 minutes more, or until the salmon reaches your desired doneness (145°F/63°C), adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice in the last minute.
- Remove the salmon from the pan and let it rest on a plate for 2-3 minutes before serving with lemon wedges.
Notes
This recipe uses a cast iron skillet for an excellent crispy skin. Ensure salmon is thoroughly dry before searing. An instant-read thermometer helps achieve perfect doneness.