Sear-Grilled Salmon with Caper and Tarragon Sauce

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

Salmon fillets seared to perfection and finished with a bright caper-tarragon sauce that enhances the fish's natural richness. This mediterranean-inspired seafood (keto) ready in about 25 minutes blends (6 oz each) salmon fillets, olive oil, butter 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 320 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: 15 min Serves 2 Mediterranean cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each) dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
  2. Step 2: Place salmon skin-side down in the skillet and cook for 4 minutes until skin is crisp. Flip and cook for 3 more minutes until fish flakes easily with a fork.
  3. Step 3: Remove salmon and keep warm. Add 1/2 tbsp butter to the skillet, then stir in 2 tbsp drained capers, 1 tbsp chopped tarragon, and 1/2 lemon juice. Cook for 1 minute until sauce thickens slightly. Drizzle over salmon and serve immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Sear-Grilled Salmon with Caper and Tarragon Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (10 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Sear-Grilled Salmon with Caper and Tarragon Sauce?

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 Sear-Grilled Salmon with Caper and Tarragon Sauce?

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 Sear-Grilled Salmon with Caper and Tarragon Sauce 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.

Is Sear-Grilled Salmon with Caper and Tarragon Sauce keto?

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

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