1-Rinse the salmon fillets and pat them dry with paper towels to prepare them.

2-In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and lemon zest to make the spice mix.

3-rub the spice mixture on the flesh side of the salmon fillets for even flavor.

4-Heat the olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s good and hot.

5-Place the salmon fillets skin side down in the pan and cook for 3 to 4 minutes without moving them to get that golden crust.

6-Using a fish spatula, flip the salmon and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, adjusting for thickness.

7-After flipping, add the butter and minced garlic to the pan; as it melts, spoon the garlic butter sauce over the salmon and squeeze in the juice from half a lemon.

8-Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; aim for 125ºF for medium rare, which takes 2 to 5 minutes depending on the fillet’s thickness.

9-Remove the salmon from the pan and garnish with a lemon wedge for a fresh finish.