Pan-Seared Salmon with Avocado Salsa Verde

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

Tender salmon fillets pan-seared to a golden crust topped with a zesty avocado and herb salsa verde. This american-inspired seafood (gluten free) ready in about 20 minutes blends (6 oz each) salmon fillets, salt, black pepper 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 450 calories and feeds 4, 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: 10 min Serves 4 American cuisine 450 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat dry 4 salmon fillets and season both sides with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Step 2: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 5-6 minutes until the edges are crispy and the skin releases easily from the pan. Flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily.
  3. Step 3: While the salmon cooks, combine 1 medium diced ripe avocado, 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, 1 tbsp rinsed capers, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 2 tbsp finely diced red onion, and 1 small finely chopped jalapeño in a bowl. Stir gently to combine.
  4. Step 4: Serve the salmon fillets topped generously with the avocado salsa verde.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Salmon with Avocado Salsa Verde take to make?

Total time is about 20 minutes (10 min prep + 10 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 Salsa Verde?

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 Salsa Verde?

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 Salsa Verde for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). 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.

Is Pan-Seared Salmon with Avocado Salsa Verde gluten free?

Yes — this recipe is tagged gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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