Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Salmon

Why This Is Strictly Keto

This recipe contains zero sugar and zero flour. It relies entirely on salmon (healthy fats + protein), butter (fat), garlic (minimal carbs), lemon juice, and herbs — all perfectly aligned with the ketogenic diet’s 70% fat / 25% protein / 5% carb macros.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (skin-on, ~6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Lemon slices for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the salmon: Pat salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels — this is key for a golden crust. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika.

2. Sear skin-side down: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place salmon fillets skin-side down. Press lightly so the entire skin contacts the pan. Cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy and the salmon releases easily from the pan.

3. Flip: Flip the fillets carefully and cook for 1–2 more minutes until the tops are lightly golden. The center should still look slightly translucent — it will finish cooking off the heat. Remove salmon to a plate.

4. Make the garlic butter sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter and minced garlic to the same pan. Cook for 30–60 seconds, stirring, until fragrant but not browned.

5. Finish the sauce: Pour in lemon juice and let simmer for 30–60 seconds. Add parsley and stir to combine.

6. Serve: Return salmon to the pan briefly, spoon sauce over the fillets, and serve immediately with lemon slices.

Nutritional Info (per serving, approximate)

Tips

• Do not move the salmon once it hits the pan — let the crust form naturally.
• If the salmon sticks when you try to flip, it is not ready yet; wait another 30 seconds.
• Serve over riced cauliflower or with roasted asparagus for a complete keto meal.