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Perfectly Cooked Salmon

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Perfectly Cooked Salmon is a simple yet delicious way to prepare salmon, offering rich flavor, flaky texture, and versatility. Whether you choose to bake, pan-sear, or grill it, this easy-to-follow recipe ensures your salmon is always cooked to perfection. It’s a healthy, flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with any side and is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
  • Fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, or thyme) for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

  1. Preheat the oven or stove:
    • For oven-baked salmon, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • For pan-seared salmon, heat a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Season the salmon:
    Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter, and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

Oven-Baked Method:

  1. Place the seasoned salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) or easily flake with a fork.

Pan-Seared Method:

  1. Heat the oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if the skin is on) and cook for 4-5 minutes without moving them. Once the fillets easily release from the pan, flip them and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side.
  3. For crispy skin, cook for an extra minute or two on the skin side down.

Step 3: Serve

  1. Garnish: Once cooked, remove the salmon from the pan or oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or a drizzle of extra lemon juice.
  2. Serve: Enjoy your perfectly cooked salmon with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Notes

  • For a glazed salmon, brush with honey mustard, teriyaki, or maple syrup during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  • For a lemon dill salmon, add fresh dill and extra lemon slices for a zesty, herb-infused flavor.
  • For a spicy version, sprinkle chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce for heat.
  • Herb-crusted salmon: Top with a mixture of breadcrumbs and fresh herbs for a crispy crust.

Find it online: https://avarecipe.com/perfectly-cooked-salmon/