Pan Seared Salmon with a Fresh Avocado Topping

Two pieces of toast topped with a chunky avocado and tomato mixture, served with two lime wedges on a white plate.

Pan Seared Salmon with a Fresh Avocado Topping

This pan seared salmon recipe creates a crisp golden crust while keeping the center tender and juicy. Finished with a fresh avocado topping, it turns a simple salmon dinner into something that feels special without extra work.

Course Main Course, Main Dishes

Cuisine American, International

Keyword baked salmon, black pepper, cook salmon, crispy, fillet, flake easily with a fork, lemon juice, pan sear salmon, pan-seared salmon, salmon, salmon fillets, salmon recipe, sear, sear salmon, skillet, skin side

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 8

Servings Portions

Calories 212kcal

Author Zuzana Paar

Equipment

Ingredients

Salmon

2 Pieces Salmon Fillets about 6 oz each
½ Tablespoon Olive Oil
½ teaspoon Paprika
½ teaspoon Salt to taste
¼ teaspoon Pepper to taste

Avocado Blend

1 Piece Avocado diced, ripe
½ Cup Cherry Tomatoes quartered
2 Tablespoons Red Onion finely chopped
2 Tablespoons Cilantro chopped fresh
½ Piece Lime Juice
½ teaspoon Salt to taste
¼ teaspoon Pepper to taste

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Pat the salmon dry, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and let it sit for 10 minutes.
Mix avocado, tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
Cook salmon in olive oil for 4–5 minutes on one side and 3–4 minutes on the other until cooked through.
Spoon the avocado mixture over the salmon and serve immediately.

Notes

Start with dry salmon fillets: Pat the salmon dry so the surface can sear properly in the skillet. This helps create a crispy skin side and a better overall texture.
Use the right heat level: Cooking on medium-high heat gives the salmon a good sear without burning. High heat helps the skin-side turn crisp while the flesh side stays tender.
Let the salmon cook without moving it: Let the salmon sit in the pan until it forms a solid crust. Moving it too early can prevent a good sear and cause sticking.
Keep seasoning simple: Salt, black pepper, and fresh lemon juice are enough to highlight the salmon. Simple seasoning pairs well with a fresh avocado topping without overpowering it.

Nutrition