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pan seared salmon

Easy Pan Seared Salmon Recipe (with garlic green beans)

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner, this pan-seared salmon is a game changer. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, it pairs perfectly with simple garlic green beans for a balanced plate. Best part? It all comes together in under 15 minutes with just a few ingredients!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 1 serving
Course: dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon:
  • 1 salmon fillet
  • Salt & freshly cracked black pepper
  • 2 tablespoon oil (with high smoke point)
For the Garlic Green Beans (optional side):
  • 1 handful of green beans trimmed
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • Salt to taste

Equipment

Method
 

  1. Season the Salmon – Pat your salmon fillet dry, then season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
  2. Heat the Pan – If using stainless steel, make sure it’s hot before adding oil (a splash of water should bounce across the surface). Wipe dry, then pour in the oil and swirl to coat.
  3. Sear the Salmon – Place the salmon skin-side down and don’t move it. After 1–2 minutes, gently shake the pan; once the salmon naturally releases from the surface, flip it. Repeat on the other side until golden and crisp.
  4. Finish Cooking – Depending on thickness, your salmon may already be done. If not, pop it into a 400°F oven for 5–8 minutes to finish. Remove and let it rest.
  5. Make the Garlic Green Beans – In the same pan with the leftover oil, sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add in steamed green beans (steam or boil for 5 minutes beforehand) and toss for 3–5 minutes. Season with salt.
  6. Serve & Enjoy – Plate your salmon with the garlic green beans. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon over the salmon and pair with buttery rice for a complete meal.

Notes

✨ Pro Tip: Don’t force the salmon to release from the pan—let it do the work for you. This is the secret to perfect crispy skin every time!

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