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Gordon Ramsay Pan-Fried Salmon

Gordon Ramsay Pan-Fried Salmon served with lemon slices and herbs on foil

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Gordon Ramsay Pan-Fried Salmon is a quick and flavorful main dish that delivers restaurant-quality results in just 12 minutes. With perfectly crispy skin and tender, flaky salmon inside, this recipe is finished with a buttery garlic-herb baste and a bright splash of lemon. Inspired by Gordon Ramsay’s famous pan technique, it’s a foolproof way to impress with minimal ingredients and effort. Whether you’re prepping a weeknight dinner or a healthy gourmet meal, this salmon is guaranteed to satisfy.

Ingredients

Scale

Main:

  • 2 salmon fillets (skin-on, about 6 oz each)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme or parsley (chopped)
  • ½ lemon, juiced

Optional Garnishes:

  • Lemon wedges
  • Extra chopped herbs

Instructions

  • Pat the Salmon Dry: Use paper towels to pat the salmon fillets dry—especially the skin. This step is crucial for getting that crispy skin everyone loves.
  • Season Well: Sprinkle both sides of the salmon with salt and black pepper. Let it rest at room temperature while your pan heats up.
  • Sear the Skin Side: Heat olive oil in a nonstick or stainless-steel pan over medium-high heat. When hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down.
  • Pro Tip: Press the fillets gently for the first 30 seconds to keep the skin flat. Cook without moving for 4–5 minutes.
  • Flip & Baste: Carefully flip the fillets. Add butter, garlic, and fresh herbs. As the butter melts, tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the salmon continuously for 1–2 minutes.
  • Add Lemon & Serve: Turn off the heat. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and transfer the salmon to plates. Serve hot with lemon wedges and your choice of sides.

Notes

  • Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed.
  • Always use skin-on salmon for best texture and flavor.
  • Fresh lemon juice is a must. Bottled won’t give the same brightness.
  • Use a fish spatula for easy flipping!