Lemony-Garlic Pan-Seared Salmon

Ingredients

• 4 (5-ounce) skin-on salmon fillets
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp salt-free lemon pepper
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 large clove garlic, crushed
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, chives and/or dill
• 1/2 tsp grated lemon zest
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Pat salmon dry and sprinkle on both sides with garlic powder, salt and lemon pepper.
2. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the salmon, skin-side down; cook, pressing the fillets down slightly with a spatula until they rest flat against the pan, about 15 seconds. Release spatula and continue cooking until the skin releases easily from the pan and the fish edges are opaque, 3 to 4 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low and flip the salmon. Add garlic and butter to the pan; cook until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest portion registers 145°F, 2 to 4 minutes, swirling the butter in the pan occasionally. Remove and discard the garlic clove.
3. Transfer the salmon to a platter; sprinkle evenly with herbs and lemon zest. Serve with lemon wedges. Additional reporting by Carrie Myers and Jan Valdez