Close-up of lemon pepper salmon fillets in a skillet with lemon slices and herbs

Lemon Pepper Salmon

by

Bright, zesty & easy to make

This Lemon Pepper Salmon is everything you want in a quick and flavorful dinner fresh, juicy, and bursting with zesty citrus goodness! With golden seared salmon fillets coated in a tangy lemon pepper butter sauce, it’s a healthy, high-protein meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or light summer dinners, this Emma’s Cake Studio favorite is deliciously simple yet full of flavor. Serve it with rice, veggies, or salad for a bright and wholesome meal you’ll make again and again!

Time Breakdown

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Ingredients List

For the Salmon

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt (to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon

For the Lemon Butter Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon honey (optional, for balance)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

  • Large nonstick skillet or cast iron pan
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Zester or grater
  • Small saucepan (for sauce)
  • Measuring spoons

Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

  1. Prep the salmon:
    Pat salmon fillets dry and season both sides with lemon pepper, salt, and garlic powder. Sprinkle lemon zest over the top.
  2. Sear the salmon:
    Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add salmon fillets (skin-side down if applicable). Sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and flaky. Remove from pan and set aside.
  3. Make the lemon butter sauce:
    In the same pan (or a small saucepan), melt butter and add garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice, honey (optional), and parsley. Simmer for 1 minute to thicken slightly.
  4. Combine & serve:
    Spoon the warm lemon butter sauce over the salmon fillets. Garnish with fresh parsley and a slice of lemon.
  5. Enjoy:
    Serve with rice, roasted potatoes, or steamed veggies for a light, bright, and zesty meal!

Pro Tips

  • Crispy skin: For skin-on fillets, pat dry and cook skin-side down first for a crispy finish.
  • Want more flavor? Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a touch of heat.
  • Baked option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, then drizzle with lemon butter sauce.
  • Meal prep magic: Keeps well in the fridge for 3 days just reheat gently and enjoy!

Nutrition Table

Serving SizeCaloriesProteinCarbsFatFiberSugar
1 fillet38034g2g24g0g1g