Ingredients:

  • 4 (6 oz) salmon fillets
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels. Note: Any moisture will steam the fish instead of searing it.
  2. Brush each fillet lightly with melted butter. Note: This helps the spices stick.
  3. In a small bowl, mix lemon pepper seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Generously coat the top and sides of each fillet. Note: Press the spices in with your fingers so they don't fall off in the pan.
  5. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium high heat until shimmering. Note: If the oil isn't shimmering, the fish will stick.
  6. Place salmon in the pan and sear for 3-5 minutes without moving it until a mahogany crust forms.
  7. Flip the fillets carefully using a wide spatula.
  8. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork or reaches an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C).