Skillet Lemon Butter Salmon with Potatoes

Name: Skillet Lemon Butter Salmon with Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 pound baby potatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Highlighted under: One Pot Recipes

I absolutely love making Skillet Lemon Butter Salmon with Potatoes because it's a dish that brings together my favorite flavors in such a simple way. The richness of the salmon paired with the bright zing of lemon and the buttery potatoes creates a delightful experience that's hard to resist. In just about 30 minutes, I can create a restaurant-quality meal that’s not only delicious but also pleasing to the eye, making it a perfect option for both family dinners and entertaining guests.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-16T15:25:19.387Z

When I first tried this Skillet Lemon Butter Salmon, I was amazed by how quickly I could prepare such a flavorful dish. It became my go-to for busy weeknights or whenever I need to impress someone without spending hours in the kitchen. The simplicity of the ingredients truly shines through, especially when balanced with fresh herbs.

One of my favorite tips is to let the butter and lemon sauce simmer slightly before adding the salmon; this enhances the flavors and results in a beautifully seared fillet that just melts in your mouth. Pairing it with crispy potatoes adds a wonderful texture contrast that I can never get enough of!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty flavor from fresh lemon juice
Perfectly seared salmon that melts in your mouth
Crispy potatoes that complement the dish beautifully

      

Cooking Techniques for Best Results

Cooking salmon to perfection requires attention to heat and timing. Start with a preheated skillet; the ideal temperature is medium-high, ensuring a crispy skin while preserving the moistness of the flesh. Monitor the salmon closely, cooking it skin-side down for about 4-5 minutes until the skin turns golden brown and crispy. If using skinless fillets, adjust your cooking time slightly, as they may cook faster than those with skin.

The lemon butter sauce is an essential component that enhances the dish's flavor profile. To achieve a smooth, emulsified sauce, add the butter a tablespoon at a time after it has melted. This method encourages a glossy finish and rich flavor. Be sure to incorporate the garlic until it's fragrant but not browned—typically about 30 seconds. If the garlic browns, it can impart a bitter taste to the sauce, so keep a close eye on it.

Potato Perfection

For crispy potatoes, halving baby potatoes ensures they cook evenly and develop a delicious, golden exterior. Parboiling them for 15 minutes softens the potatoes, providing a tender inside. After draining, let them sit for a few minutes to steam off excess moisture before tossing them in oil. This drying step is crucial; the drier the potatoes, the crispier they will turn out during the frying process.

When seasonings come into play, feel free to get creative. While dried thyme adds a lovely herbal note, feel free to experiment with rosemary or even smoked paprika for an enticing twist. For a dairy-free version, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter, ensuring you still get that rich, buttery flavor without compromising on your dietary preferences.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Plating your Skillet Lemon Butter Salmon with Potatoes is an opportunity to impress. Serve the salmon atop a bed of crispy potatoes, drizzling the luscious lemon butter sauce over both. For an added pop of color and brightness, garnish with extra fresh parsley or lemon wedges. The presentation not only enhances the dish but also provides an aromatic experience as your guests anticipate the flavors.

Pairing this dish with a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the salmon's richness and the lemon's acidity. Alternatively, a side of sautéed greens, such as spinach or asparagus, can add not just flavor, but also a vibrant contrast that elevates the entire meal. This combination makes for a delightful balance on the palate, inviting second helpings.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

For the Potatoes

1 pound baby potatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes

In a large pot, add halved baby potatoes and cover with water. Bring to a boil, add salt, and cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Salmon

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy.

Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

Add garlic and butter to the skillet with the salmon. Once the butter has melted, drizzle lemon juice over the fillets and carefully flip them. Cook for another 3-4 minutes.

Combine and Serve

In a separate skillet, toss the cooked potatoes with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper over medium heat until crispy. Serve salmon on a plate next to the crispy potatoes, pouring the leftover lemon butter sauce on top.

Pro Tips

For an extra pop of flavor, add capers to the lemon butter sauce before serving. It’s a simple twist that elevates the dish even further!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the salmon and potatoes separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salmon can stay fresh for up to three days, while the potatoes may last about two to three days before losing their optimal texture. When reheating, be cautious not to overcook the salmon; a quick warm-up in the microwave for about 30 seconds or in a skillet over low heat will suffice, ensuring it remains juicy.

Reheating potatoes can sometimes lead to sogginess. An effective solution is to spread the potatoes on a baking sheet and reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they're hot and crispy. This method revives their crunch while maintaining flavor, making them as enjoyable as when they were first made.

Variations to Try

For a twist on the classic, you can incorporate seasonal vegetables into the dish. Adding asparagus, green beans, or bell peppers alongside the salmon during the cooking process introduces vibrant colors and flavors. Just ensure the vegetables are cut to a similar size as the potatoes for even cooking, allowing them to soften without overcooking.

Another variation could be to swap out the salmon for other fish such as trout or cod. Adjust cooking times slightly, as these fishes may cook quicker, usually needing 3-4 minutes per side. This change can offer a different texture and taste profile while still maintaining the delightful lemon butter sauce that ties everything together.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure to fully thaw the salmon before cooking to get the best results.

→ What can I substitute for potatoes?

You can use rice or quinoa for a lighter side option, or even steamed vegetables.

→ How do I tell when the salmon is done?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F.

→ Can this dish be made in advance?

While it's best fresh, you can prepare the lemon butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.