Pan-Seared Salmon with Avocado-Lime Dressing

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Salmon fillets seared to perfection with a bright avocado and lime dressing that complements the rich fish. This pacific northwest-inspired seafood ready in about 19 minutes blends skin-on salmon fillets, avocado oil, pitted and diced avocado into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 480 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 9 min Serves 2 Pacific Northwest cuisine 480 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat 8 oz salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp avocado oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place salmon skin-side down and cook undisturbed for 6 minutes until skin is crisp and golden.
  3. Step 3: Flip salmon and cook 3 minutes more until opaque and flaky. Remove from pan and let rest.
  4. Step 4: While salmon rests, blend 1/2 diced avocado, 2 tbsp lime juice, 2 tbsp chopped cilantro, and 1 tbsp sliced chives in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle over salmon immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Salmon with Avocado-Lime Dressing take to make?

Total time is about 19 minutes (10 min prep + 9 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Pan-Seared Salmon with Avocado-Lime Dressing?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Pan-Seared Salmon with Avocado-Lime Dressing?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Pan-Seared Salmon with Avocado-Lime Dressing for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Pan-Seared Salmon with Avocado-Lime Dressing?

Pacific Northwest seafood like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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