How to Pan-Sear Salmon

You don’t have to be a culinary expert to enjoy perfectly pan-seared salmon. Sure, it may sound fancy and hard to accomplish, but achieving a deliciously cooked salmon is easier than you think! Follow the steps below to learn how.

The Best Salmon for Searing

For a delicious and healthy seafood dinner, start with the best salmon! High in protein and an excellent source of vitamins and Omega-3s, Faroe Islands Salmon Fillets are a great way to include a lean protein in your at-home meal. Our Wild Alaskan Skin-On Sockeye Salmon are among the highest-quality and always rich in color, and we leave the skin on for greater flavor and easier preparation. Looking to skip the marinating steps and enjoy dinner faster? Try Omaha Steaks Marinated Salmon Fillets or Lemon Dill Salmon Fillets.

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Omaha Steaks Faroe Islands Salmon Fillets 4 Pieces 6 oz Per Piece

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Omaha Steaks Signature Seafood Seasoning 2.2 oz

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Omaha Steaks Wild Alaskan Skin-On Sockeye Salmon 4 Pieces 6 oz Per Piece

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How to Pan-Sear Salmon

Pan-searing is a technique that uses high heat to quickly cook the salmon’s exterior using only a small amount of oil. Follow the steps below to create an epic seafood meal at home.

1. Thaw Salmon

Before cooking your salmon, you will need to thaw the fillets using one of two methods. To thaw in the refrigerator; remove the salmon from the plastic packaging, then cover and refrigerate. To thaw quickly; unpackage the salmon and place in a sealable plastic bag. Remove as much air from the bag as possible and immerse in cold water for approximately 30 minutes. Bring salmon to room temperature to allow for more even cooking. Once salmon is thawed, enjoy within one to two days.

2. Season Salmon

Add your favorite seasoning blend or Omaha Steaks Signature Seafood Rub with Citrus & Herb to bring out all of the salmon’s wonderful flavors. If you chose one of our pre-marinated salmon options, skip this step.

3. Preheat Pan to Medium-High Heat

Start by heating 1-2 Tbsp. of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once your oil is hot, place your salmon in the skillet, skin-side down.

4. Pan-Sear Salmon

Depending on the thickness of the fillet, cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side. Flip the fillet and cook for another 4-5 minutes or until light pink in color and opaque throughout. If cooking with the skin on, the skin should be crispy, whereas skinless salmon should boast a honey-browned exterior and meaty pink center. For medium-rare doneness, the salmon should be measured at 120°F by inserting a meat thermometer at the thickest part of the fillet. Perfectly cooked salmon is moist and flaky, but overcooked salmon is dry and tough. Make sure your dinner is perfect by not overcooking your fillets.

5. Rest 2-3 Minutes

Once cooked, remove your salmon fillet from the skillet and let rest for about 2-3 minutes.

Refer to the cooking time on the or our seafood cooking chart to help with the cooking process.

How to Serve Pan-Seared Salmon

Serve your perfectly seared salmon on a bed of rice or pasta and pair it with a cooked vegetable side for a complete meal. Add your favorite steak for a surf ‘n’ turf style dinner and finish this delicious experience with a decadent dessert.

Other Ways to Cook Salmon

• How to bake salmon
• How grill salmon

Editor’s Note: This post was updated in March 2022 for freshness and comprehensiveness.