salmon steak recipe

The Best salmon steak recipe

Pan-Seared Salmon Steaks with Lemon-Dill Sauce

4.6 from 1901 votes

A simple yet flavorful method for crispy salmon steaks with a bright, herby sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners with fresh vegetables or mashed potatoes.

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Prep Time10 mins

Cook Time15 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time25 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 4 (6 oz each) salmon steaks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Lemon-Dill Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh dill
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1
   Pat salmon steaks dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once shimmering, place steaks in the pan.
2. 2
   Cook salmon for 4–5 minutes per side, until the edges turn opaque and the center reaches 125°F. Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes.
3. 3
   While salmon rests, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, dill, garlic, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl.
4. 4
   Slice steaks thinly against the grain and spoon the lemon-dill sauce over each portion. Serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

• Skillet (cast iron or heavy stainless steel)
• Lemon wedge
• Paper towels

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22💛Saturated Fat: 3❤️Cholesterol: 70🧂Sodium: 550🌾Total Carbs: 3🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 1🥩Protein: 30

📝Notes

For extra crispiness, sear steaks in batches if needed. If using frozen steaks, thaw them first in the refrigerator.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pan-Seared Salmon Steaks with Lemon-Dill Sauce

1. How do I know when the salmon steak is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness: aim for 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare, 130°F (54°C) for medium, and 135°F (57°C) for well-done. For visual confirmation, cut into the thickest part—it should flake easily but retain some pink in rare or medium-rare cuts.

2. Can I marinate the salmon steak in advance?

Yes, but keep it simple for best results. A quick marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs works well—marinate for no more than 2 hours to avoid overpowering the fish. For thicker cuts, let it sit on the counter for 30 minutes before cooking.

3. What’s the best pan to use for searing salmon steaks?

A heavy-bottomed pan like cast iron or stainless steel works best. Preheat it to high heat, then add a bit of oil (about ½ teaspoon per steak) to prevent sticking. Avoid nonstick pans—they can compromise flavor and texture.

4. How do I avoid drying out my salmon steak?

Don’t overcook it! Salmon steaks are delicate—aim for a 3- to 4-minute sear per side for medium-rare. If using a grill, keep the heat medium-high and move the steak around to ensure even cooking. Rest for 2–3 minutes after removing from the heat before serving.