Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner with a dish that's as impressive as it is simple? Look no further than this mouthwatering Cast Iron Salmon with Crispy Skin! In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal that will leave your taste buds dancing and your guests begging for the recipe. With perfectly seared salmon fillets and the zesty brightness of lemon, this recipe is a delicious way to bring the flavors of American cuisine right to your table. Dive into the details below and discover how to create this culinary masterpiece!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- Salt
- Pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 2 salmon fillets, salt, pepper, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and 1 lemon sliced into rounds. Ensure the salmon fillets are at room temperature for even cooking.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 3-5 minutes until it is hot. You can test the heat by flicking a few drops of water onto the skillet; they should sizzle and evaporate immediately.
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the hot skillet, swirling it around to coat the bottom evenly. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
- Carefully place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down. Press down gently on the fillets with a spatula for the first few seconds to ensure even contact with the skillet and to help the skin crisp up.
- Cook the salmon for about 6-7 minutes without moving it. You'll notice the skin will start to become golden brown and crispy. The salmon will cook through from the bottom up.
- While the salmon is cooking, prepare the lemon slices. You can place them in the skillet around the salmon to infuse some flavor into the oil and the fish.
- Once the salmon is cooked about three-quarters of the way through (the color will change from deep pink to a lighter shade), carefully flip the fillets over using a spatula.
- Cook the salmon for an additional 3-4 minutes on the flesh side. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the salmon fillets to a plate. Let them rest for a minute, allowing the juices to redistribute.
- Serve the salmon hot, garnished with the cooked lemon slices. You can squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the top for added brightness. Enjoy your delicious cast iron salmon with crispy skin!
Tips
- Dry It Out: For the crispiest skin, make sure to pat your salmon fillets dry with paper towels before seasoning. The drier the skin, the better the crisp!
- Preheat the Skillet: A hot cast iron skillet is key. Allow it to heat for 3-5 minutes before adding oil. You want it hot enough to sizzle when the salmon hits the pan.
- Don’t Rush the Flip: Let the salmon cook undisturbed for 6-7 minutes on the skin side. This allows the skin to crisp up beautifully and helps the fish cook evenly.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon slices not only add flavor but also enhance the presentation. Don’t skip this step for that extra zing!
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This guarantees perfectly cooked fish every time.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the salmon to rest for a minute after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.
- Garnish for Greatness: Serve your salmon with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and the cooked lemon slices for a burst of color and flavor that will impress your diners.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
