Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Quick & Easy Salmon with Tomato Lemon Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Quick & Easy Salmon with Tomato Lemon Sauce recipe delivers a flavorful and healthy meal in just 30 minutes. Tender salmon filets are pan-roasted to perfection and topped with a vibrant sauce made from garlic, capers, fresh lemon, cherry tomatoes, and basil. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner that feels gourmet.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Salmon

  • 1 Pound Salmon (cut into filets)
  • Sea Salt (to taste)
  • Black Pepper (to taste)
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for pan roasting the salmon, about 2 tablespoons)

For the Tomato Lemon Sauce

  • 3 Cloves Garlic (mashed)
  • 2 Tablespoons Capers (mashed)
  • 1 Lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 1 Cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved)
  • 1/4 Cup Basil (chopped)
  • 1/4 Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • Sea Salt (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Heat oil: Start by heating 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil in a pan over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
  2. Add ingredients: Add the mashed garlic, mashed capers, and lemon zest to the pan. Sauté gently, stirring often, being careful to avoid burning the garlic. Cook until fragrant and softened, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Cook sauce: Add the halved cherry tomatoes, lemon juice, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir and cook until the tomatoes start to blister and soften, about 4-5 minutes. Finally, stir in the chopped basil and combine well. Remove the sauce from the heat and set aside.
  4. Season salmon: Generously season both sides of the salmon filets with sea salt and black pepper.
  5. Cook salmon: Heat a skillet with some extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Place a square sheet of parchment paper inside the skillet, dipping it in the oil on both sides to coat it well. Place the salmon on top of the parchment paper and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, until the salmon is cooked through and has a nice sear.
  6. Plate and serve: Transfer the cooked salmon to serving plates. Spoon the tomato lemon sauce generously over the salmon. Serve immediately and enjoy your quick and delicious meal!

Notes

  • Be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing the sauce ingredients as it can turn bitter.
  • Using parchment paper in the skillet helps prevent sticking and keeps the salmon tender.
  • Adjust seasoning of the sauce as desired with extra salt or lemon juice for more brightness.
  • This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat