Pan-Fried Salmon with Butter Broccoli and Lemon Mayo
Tender pan-fried salmon paired with golden butter-sautéed broccoli and a tangy lemon mayonnaise. This simple yet satisfying meal comes together in one skillet for easy cleanup. The rich salmon contrasts beautifully with the crisp-tender broccoli, while the bright lemon mayo adds a creamy, citrusy finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or when you want something nutritious without complicated techniques.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds salmon
- 2 ounces butter
- 1 pound broccoli
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- 1
Mix mayonnaise and lemon juice and season with salt and pepper
- 2
Fry the salmon in half the butter over medium heat for a couple of minutes on each side
- 3
Lower the heat towards the end and remove from pan, keep warm
- 4
Rinse and trim the broccoli including the stem and chop into bite-sized pieces
- 5
Add the remaining butter to the same skillet and cook the broccoli over medium heat until slightly softened and golden brown
- 6
Season broccoli with salt and pepper to taste
- 7
Serve the fried salmon and broccoli together with a dollop of lemon mayo
Tips
Pat salmon dry before cooking to prevent splattering and ensure a golden crust forms properly.
Don't overcrowd the broccoli in the pan - cook in batches if needed for even browning.
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days. Store lemon mayo separately.
Lemon mayo can be made up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated.
Serve immediately while salmon is warm and broccoli is crisp-tender.
Common Mistakes
Don't overcook salmon to avoid dryness - it should flake easily when done.
Keep heat at medium to prevent butter from burning.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, but thaw and pat dry first. Reduce cooking time to 2-3 minutes since frozen broccoli is partially cooked.
What if I don't have fresh lemon juice?
Bottled lemon juice works fine for this recipe. You can also substitute with lime juice for a different citrus flavor.
How long will the lemon mayo keep?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The acidity from lemon juice helps preserve it.