Garlic Butter Shrimp-Topped Salmon

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Garlic Butter Shrimp-Topped Salmon 🍤🐟

  • Prep time: 10 minutes

  • Cook time: 15 minutes

  • Total time: 25 minutes

  • Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz / 170g each), skin-on or skinless

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp smoked paprika

  • ½ tsp kosher salt

  • ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper

For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:

  • ½ lb (225g) medium or large raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails on

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)

  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced

  • 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice

  • ½ tsp lemon zest

  • ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)

  • 2 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped

  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prep the Seafood: Pat both the salmon fillets and peeled shrimp completely dry using paper towels. Season the salmon evenly on all sides with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Lightly season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper.

  2. Pan-Sear the Salmon: Heat a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted and bubbling, lay the salmon fillets flesh-side down. Sear undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms. Flip and cook for another 3–4 minutes until cooked through to your liking (125°F–130°F / 52°C–54°C for medium, or 145°F / 63°C for well-done). Transfer salmon to a warm serving plate.

  3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for 45–60 seconds until fragrant (do not let the garlic burn).

  4. Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1½ to 2 minutes per side until pink, opaque, and cooked through.

  5. Finish the Sauce: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped fresh parsley. Spoon the sauce over the shrimp to coat completely.

  6. Assemble & Serve: Pile the garlic butter shrimp generously on top of each salmon fillet. Pour the remaining rich pan juices directly over top and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges, roasted baby potatoes, and grilled asparagus.