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–+ servings
Crispy Skin Salmon

Crispy Skin Salmon | Easy, Flavor-Packed Seafood Dinner

Print Recipe
Crispy Skin Salmon is one of those dishes that looks fancy but is actually really simple to make. You get perfectly crispy skin and juicy, flavorful salmon with just a few basic ingredients and a quick sear on the stovetop. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a treat but comes together in no time.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword crispy salmon recipe, easy salmon recipe, healthy seafood recipes, how to cook crispy skin salmon
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 4 people
Author DelishDoers
Cost 30

Equipment

  • 1 sauté pan

Ingredients

  • 1.5 pounds of salmon fillet skin-on
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 3 tablespoons avocado oil
  • 1 lemon half for squeezing, half for garnish

Instructions

Gather Ingredients

  • Have everything ready before you start. This keeps the cooking process smooth and quick.
    Ingredients for Crispy Skin Salmon

Prep the Salmon

  • Pat the salmon fillet completely dry with paper towels — especially the skin side. Dry skin is key for crispiness. Cut a few small slits through the skin (not into the flesh) to prevent curling. Season both sides of the salmon with salt and black pepper.
    Cut a few slits through skin for Crispy Skin Salmon

Sear the Salmon

  • Heat the avocado oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place the salmon skin-side down in the hot pan. Use a spatula to press it gently for a few seconds so the skin stays flat.
    Sear the salmon for Crispy Skin Salmon
  • Let it cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crisp and the salmon is cooked about halfway up the sides.

Flip and Finish

  • Carefully flip the salmon and cook the other side for about 4 more minutes, or until just cooked through. Sprinkle a little extra salt on the crispy skin while it’s still in the pan. Remove the salmon from the heat right away to avoid overcooking.
    Sear the other side of the salmon for Crispy Skin Salmon

Add Lemon and Serve

  • Transfer the salmon to a plate, crispy skin side up. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top while it’s still hot. Garnish with lemon slices and serve immediately.
    Put lemon slices on Crispy Skin Salmon

Video

Notes

  • Dry thoroughly: Make sure the skin is very dry before cooking.
  • High enough heat: The pan should be hot enough to sizzle when the fish hits it.
  • Minimal handling: Let the salmon cook undisturbed until it naturally releases from the pan.
  • Use the right pan: A heavy-bottomed nonstick or cast-iron skillet works best.