Salmon is a type of fish that is found in the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. It is a popular food item due to its high levels of omega-3 fatty acids and protein. Salmon can be cooked in a variety of ways, including grilling, baking, and smoking. It can also be canned or processed into other food items such as smoked salmon or salmon jerky.
- 17 grams of protein
- 2.3 grams of omega-3 fatty acids
- 74% of the daily value (DV) of vitamin B12
- 53% of the DV of vitamin D
- 30% of the DV of selenium Additionally, Salmon contain lower amounts of saturated fat and cholesterol compared to other animal protein sources. Eating salmon may help to lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer.
Many variations to cook salmon
- Grilling – This method can be done on a gas or charcoal grill, and provides a smoky flavor to the fish.
- Baking – Baking salmon in the oven is a quick and easy way to cook it. It can be seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices and brushed with olive oil or butter before baking.
- Pan-frying – This method is similar to sautéing and requires only a small amount of oil. It can be seasoned with salt and pepper or a variety of herbs and spices.
- Poaching – Poaching salmon in a flavorful liquid, such as court bouillon or a mixture of white wine, lemon juice, and herbs, results in a delicate flavor and a moist texture.
- Smoking – This method gives the fish a unique smoky flavor and can be done with a variety of woods, such as alder, hickory, or mesquite.
- Sous vide – This method is a precise way to cook salmon by using a sous vide machine, results in a perfectly cooked salmon with a consistent texture throughout.
- Raw – Salmon can also be consumed raw, it is commonly used in sushi and poke bowls.
These are just a few examples of the many ways to cook salmon, feel free to experiment with different seasonings, marinades, and cooking methods to find your favorite way to prepare it.
how to bake salmon
Here is a basic recipe for baking salmon:
Ingredients:
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
- Salt and pepper
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- Line a baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
- Place the salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish and add lemon wedges and fresh herbs (if using) on top of the fish.
- Bake the salmon for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Take out of the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
how long to bake salmon
The time it takes to bake salmon will depend on the thickness of the fillets and your desired level of doneness. A general rule of thumb is to bake the fish for 8-10 minutes per 1/2-inch thickness at 400 degrees F. Keep in mind that the internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption, you can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
You may also want to check the fish half way through the cooking time and adjust the time accordingly.
A good way to check if the fish is done is by flaking it with a fork, if it comes apart easily, it’s ready to be served.
