This Ina Garten Seared Salmon With Spicy Red Pepper Aioli is a bold and elegant recipe, which uses fresh salmon fillets and roasted red peppers. It’s a restaurant-quality dish, ready in about 20 minutes.
Jump to RecipeIna Garten Seared Salmon With Spicy Red Pepper Aioli Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (6–8 ounces each, skin-on or skinless)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Spicy Red Pepper Aioli:
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers (jarred or freshly roasted)
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste

How To Make Ina Garten Seared Salmon With Spicy Red Pepper Aioli
- Blend the aioli: In a blender or food processor, combine roasted red peppers, mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper. Blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate until serving.
- Prep the salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear the salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place salmon fillets skin-side down and sear for 4–5 minutes without moving. Flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes, or until done to your liking.
- Serve: Transfer the salmon to plates. Add a dollop or drizzle of the spicy red pepper aioli on top or on the side.

Recipe Tips
- Can I use skinless salmon? Yes, but searing skin-on adds extra texture and flavor.
- How to know when salmon is done: The flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
- Can I make the aioli ahead? Yes, prepare it up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate.
- Is there a substitute for cayenne? Try smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for milder heat.
- Best pan for searing salmon: A heavy skillet like cast iron or stainless steel works best.
What To Serve With Seared Salmon
This flavorful salmon pairs well with:
- Roasted potatoes or garlic mashed cauliflower
- Steamed asparagus or green beans
- A fresh garden or arugula salad
- Lemon couscous or wild rice
- Crusty bread with olive oil dip

How To Store Seared Salmon
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at 50% power to avoid drying out.
Aioli: Store aioli in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Seared Salmon With Spicy Red Pepper Aioli Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 1g
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.
FAQs
Can I grill the salmon instead?
Yes, grill over medium-high heat for a similar result.
How spicy is the aioli?
It has a mild kick; adjust cayenne for more or less heat.
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in protein and healthy fats.
What can I use instead of mayo in the aioli?
Plain Greek yogurt or sour cream are great substitutes.
Try More Recipes:
- Ina Garten Turkey Breast Recipe
- Ina Garten Bangers And Mash Recipe
- Ina Garten Creamy Chicken Thighs With Lemon And Thyme Recipe
Ina Garten Seared Salmon With Spicy Red Pepper Aioli
Course: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes10
minutes410
kcalA fast and flavorful salmon dish served with a zesty red pepper aioli—perfect for weeknights or entertaining.
Ingredients
- For the Salmon:
-
4 salmon fillets
-
2 tbsp olive oil
-
1 tsp kosher salt
-
1/2 tsp black pepper
- For the Aioli:
-
1/2 cup roasted red peppers
-
1/3 cup mayonnaise
-
1 garlic clove, minced
-
1 tsp lemon juice
-
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
-
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Blend all aioli ingredients until smooth. Chill until ready.
- Pat salmon dry and season both sides.
- Heat oil in skillet. Sear salmon 4–5 mins skin-side down, then 2–3 mins on other side.
- Plate salmon and serve with aioli on top or side.
