If you’re looking for a nutritious, omega-3 filled dinner, then this pan-seared salmon with an avocado salsa is perfect! Gluten-free, grain-free, Paleo, Whole30, low-carb, ketogenic.
I have always been a fan of salmon, but cooking it has never been my strong suit. It’s one thing to be served moist, perfectly cooked salmon in a restaurant, and a completely different thing to make it yourself and have it come out dry and overcooked.
After much trial and error, I am sad to admit that I still have not perfectly the art of salmon making. I do find, however, that I have much better success on the stove than I do in the oven.
I’m not sure if it’s the fact that I can keep a closer eye on it, or just the direct heat that somehow works better, but my salmon never seems as dry on the stove. Which is why I tend to pan-sear my salmon whenever I make it.
Pan-searing can sound fancy and intimidating, but really all it means is that you cook the salmon quickly at a high heat, which I believe helps to lock in the moisture better. I mean, seared steak is everyone’s favorite, right?
All you really have to do is warm up some oil (neutral-tasting coconut is my favorite) over medium-high heat in a pan. Once the oil is nice and warm, add in your salmon, toss in some salt and pepper to taste, and cook for just a few minutes before flipping.
You will know the salmon is done when you can flake it with a fork and it has lightened in color, but is still nice and moist looking.
Even though is messes up the presentation, I do like to start checking the insides a minute or two before I expect it to be cooked, just to make sure it does not dry out. It’s not an exact science, but one that is pretty easy to get the hang of after just a few tries.
If you give this salmon with an avocado salsa a try, please let me know what you think in the comments below. Also be sure to follow us on Facebook and Pinterest so you don’t miss a recipe!
Pan-Seared Salmon with an Avocado Salsa
Ingredients
- 2 6-oz salmon fillets
- 1 avocado
- 2 tablespoons finely-chopped red onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
- fresh cilantro to taste
Instructions
- Heat coconut oil in a pan over medium-high heat for two minutes or until hot.
- Add in salmon, salt and pepper, and cook for approximately 3-4 minutes. Flip and repeat.
- The salmon is done when it can easily be fluffed with a fork.
- Mash up avocado and mix in red onion and cilantro.
- Top salmon with avocado salsa.
