Cooking salmon in the oven is an easy and delicious way to enjoy this popular fish. But, how long does it take salmon to cook in the oven?
The answer depends on a few factors, such as the size and thickness of your salmon fillet. In this article, we will go over everything you need to know about cooking salmon in the oven.
Choosing the Right Salmon
Before we dive into cooking times, let’s talk about choosing the right salmon for your dish. There are several types of salmon available, but two of the most common are Atlantic salmon and Pacific salmon.
Atlantic salmon is typically farm-raised and has a mild flavor. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for a milder taste or if you’re on a budget.
Pacific salmon, on the other hand, is usually wild-caught and has a richer flavor. It’s more expensive than Atlantic salmon but worth it if you want a more flavorful dish.
Prepping Your Salmon
Once you’ve chosen your salmon fillet, it’s time to prep it for cooking. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking.
Next, place your salmon fillet skin-side down on the baking sheet. Brush olive oil over the top of the fillet and season with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder or lemon zest for extra flavor.
Cooking Times
Now that your salmon is prepped, it’s time to cook it in the oven. As mentioned earlier, cooking times will vary depending on the size and thickness of your fillet. As a general rule of thumb, you should cook your salmon for 10 minutes per inch of thickness.
For example, if your fillet is 1 inch thick, you should cook it for 10 minutes. If it’s 2 inches thick, you should cook it for 20 minutes. Keep in mind that these are just guidelines and your cooking time may vary slightly.
Tips for Checking Doneness
To check if your salmon is done, use a fork to gently pull apart the flesh. If it flakes easily and is no longer translucent, it’s done.
Another way to check is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the fillet. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Serving Suggestions
Once your salmon is cooked, it’s time to serve it up! You can enjoy your salmon as is or pair it with some delicious sides like roasted vegetables or rice pilaf. You can also top your salmon with a sauce like lemon butter or dill sauce for extra flavor.
Conclusion
Cooking salmon in the oven is a simple and tasty way to enjoy this popular fish. Remember to choose the right type of salmon for your dish, prep it properly, and cook according to thickness. With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked salmon every time!
