Mains

Salted Salmon

Crisp-skinned salmon, seasoned simply and cooked hot and fast — proof that the best fish recipes are usually the shortest.

5 minprep
10 mincook
4servings
Easydifficulty

Watch it

Watch this recipe on video

See the searing technique step by step on the Easy Cookings YouTube channel.

Method

1

Salt the salmon

Pat the fillets dry and season generously with flaky sea salt on both sides. Leave at room temperature for 15 minutes — this firms the flesh and seasons it right through.

2

Heat the pan

Warm the olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.

3

Sear skin-side down

Lay the salmon skin-side down and press gently for the first 30 seconds to stop it curling. Cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until the skin is crisp and golden.

4

Flip and finish

Turn the fillets, add the lemon slices and thyme to the pan, and cook for a further 2–3 minutes until just cooked through.

5

Rest and serve

Rest for 2 minutes, then finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and black pepper.

TipResist the urge to move the salmon while it sears — leaving it undisturbed is what gives that crisp, golden skin.