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Photo showing different ways to cook salmon.

The Ultimate Guide to Cooking Salmon: Techniques, Tips, and Recipes

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, European, Mediterranean
Servings 4 20

Equipment

  • 1 Non-stick skillet For pan-searing salmon
  • 1 Baking Sheet If baking salmon
  • 1 Grill If grilling salmon
  • 1 Instant-read thermometer To check internal doneness (125-145°F)
  • 1 Spatula For flipping salmon
  • 1 Mixing Bowl For marinades and seasoning

Ingredients
  

  • Amount Unit Ingredient Notes
  • 4 fillets Salmon skin-on preferred Fresh, wild-caught recommended
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil Extra virgin for the best flavor
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste
  • ½ tsp Black pepper Freshly ground preferred
  • 1 tsp Paprika For smoky depth
  • ½ tsp Garlic powder Optional for extra flavor
  • 1 tsp Lemon zest Freshly grated
  • 1 tbsp Lemon juice For bright acidity
  • 1 tbsp Fresh dill Chopped for garnish

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preparing the Salmon

  • Pat salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
  • Check for pin bones and remove them using tweezers.
  • Rub each fillet with olive oil, ensuring an even coat.

Step 2: Seasoning the Salmon

  • In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and lemon zest.
  • Sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over the fillets.

Step 3: Cooking Methods

    Option 1: Pan-Searing for a Crispy Skin

    • Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Place salmon skin-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes without moving it.
    • Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the flesh is opaque.

    Option 2: Baking for a Tender Texture

    • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Place seasoned salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
    • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until salmon reaches an internal temperature of 125-145°F (52-63°C).

    Option 3: Grilling for a Smoky Flavor

    • Preheat grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates.
    • Place salmon skin-side down and grill for 4-5 minutes per side.
    • Remove when the flesh flakes easily.

    Step 4: Resting & Serving

    • Let salmon rest for 5 minutes to retain moisture.
    • Drizzle with lemon juice and garnish with fresh dill before serving.

    Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

    • Nutrient Amount
    • Calories 350 kcal
    • Protein 40g
    • Fat 20g
    • Omega-3 High
    • Carbs 1g
    • Sodium 300mg

    Recipe Notes

    • For extra flavor, try marinating the salmon for 30 minutes in olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic.
    • Best side dishes: Roasted vegetables, quinoa, couscous, or a Mediterranean salad.
    • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

    FAQs

    • What’s the best way to cook salmon for beginners?
    • Baking is the easiest method since it requires minimal effort. Just season the fillet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
    • How do I know when salmon is fully cooked?
    • The internal temperature should be between 125-145°F (52-63°C). The flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
    • Can I use frozen salmon?
    • Yes! Thaw overnight in the fridge or run under cold water before cooking.
    • Do I need to remove the skin before cooking?
    • No! Cooking salmon with the skin-on helps keep it moist and prevents sticking. You can remove it after cooking if preferred.
    • Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
    • Absolutely! This recipe contains no dairy ingredients.
    Keyword Salmon recipe