If you’ve ever overcooked salmon, I feel you. It’s one of those proteins that can go from tender and flaky to dry and chewy in a flash—and once it’s overdone, there’s no saving it.
That’s why I love this Keto Salmon recipe. It’s my go-to when I want something healthy, low-carb, and done in a flash (think 10 minutes from pan to plate!). It’s buttery and rich with a subtle hit of garlic and lemon that makes it feel way more indulgent than it actually is. Plus, it’s all made in one pan. No oven. No mess. No stress.
Why You’ll Love This Keto Salmon
- Fast – From prep to plate in just 10 minutes. No exaggeration!
- Foolproof – Crispy sear on the outside, tender and flaky inside—every time.
- Low carb and packed with protein – Ideal for keto and other low-carb lifestyles.
- Minimal ingredients – All you need is salmon, garlic, butter, lemon, and a little seasoning.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Just a handful of staples make this salmon shine:
- Salmon fillets – Boneless, skinless if possible. Try to use evenly sized pieces so they cook uniformly.
- Salt + pepper – Keep it simple.
- Lemon juice – Freshly squeezed for the best flavor.
- Olive oil – Helps get that golden crust.
- Butter – Adds richness to the pan sauce.
- Fresh garlic – Minced. It’s key to that signature garlic-butter flavor.
- Parsley – For a pop of freshness and color.
How to Make Keto Salmon
Prep the fish.
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel (this helps you get that gorgeous sear). Season both sides generously with salt and pepper, then rub with fresh lemon juice.
Sear it.
Heat olive oil in a large nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, place the salmon fillets flat side down and let them cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes until a golden crust forms.
Flip and finish.
Gently flip the fillets and cook for another 2 minutes. Then add the butter, garlic, and parsley. Let it all simmer together for another 2 minutes or so while spooning the melted butter over the top. That’s it!
Serve.
Plate the salmon and drizzle that buttery garlic-lemon sauce over the top. Dinner’s served.
Tips for Perfect Salmon Every Time
- Use fillets of similar size. This helps everything cook at the same rate.
- Always pat the fish dry. Moisture is the enemy of that perfect sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give each fillet room to breathe or they’ll steam instead of sear.
- Use a hot pan. You want to hear that sizzle when the salmon hits the oil.
Make-Ahead + Storage
This dish is great for meal prep too:
- To store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To freeze: Let salmon cool completely, then freeze with the pan sauce for up to 2 months.
- To reheat: Microwave with a splash of the pan juices or gently warm in a skillet over low heat.
What to Serve with Keto Salmon
This salmon goes with just about anything. Here are some of my favorite low-carb pairings:
- Cauliflower mashed “potatoes” – Creamy and satisfying without the carbs.
- Broccoli salad – Something crunchy to balance the richness.
- Keto biscuits – Perfect for soaking up that garlic butter sauce.
- Coleslaw – Fresh, tangy, and simple.
FAQs About Keto and Salmon
Is salmon keto-friendly?
Absolutely. Salmon is naturally carb-free and loaded with healthy fats and protein—perfect for a keto lifestyle.
Does salmon kick you out of ketosis?
Not at all! Just avoid sugary glazes or flour-based coatings. Stick with clean, whole ingredients like this recipe.
What kind of salmon should I use?
Any cut works! Fillets are easiest for pan-searing, but canned or smoked salmon can also fit into a keto diet.
Final Thoughts
This Keto Salmon is one of those recipes that proves eating healthy doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. It’s easy enough for a Tuesday night but fancy enough to serve guests. Plus, it’s customizable and forgiving—you’ll feel like a kitchen pro every time you make it.
Also try these Salmon recipe:-
