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Easy Pan Fried Salmon with Pesto Cream Cheese Sauce photo

Pan Fried Salmon with Pesto Cream Cheese Sauce

This Pan Fried Salmon is a game-changer! Crispy salmon topped with a creamy pesto sauce, ready in just 30 minutes!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon:
  • 1 pound salmon cut into 4 pieces
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Pesto Cream Cheese Sauce:
  • 8 ounces cream cheese
  • 2 tablespoons half and half
  • 2 tablespoons pesto

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Spatula
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

Cooking Instructions:
  1. Step 1: Prepare the Salmon - Pat the salmon pieces dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the salmon with kosher salt and ground black pepper.
  2. Step 2: Heat the Skillet - In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the salmon.
  3. Step 3: Sear the Salmon - Carefully place the salmon in the skillet, skin side down if applicable. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
  4. Step 4: Flip and Cook Through - Using a spatula, gently flip the salmon over. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until opaque in the center and flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Step 5: Make the Pesto Cream Cheese Sauce - In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, half and half, and pesto. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  6. Step 6: Serve and Enjoy - Place the salmon on plates and drizzle the pesto cream cheese sauce generously over the top. Garnish with additional pesto or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Don't overcrowd the skillet to maintain the oil temperature for a nice sear.
  • Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after cooking for juiciness.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese for easier blending into the sauce.