Cooked King SalmonCooked King Salmon
Easy and Delicious Methods

How to Cook Salmon

4 Simple Ways to Cook Salmon

Pan-Seared Salmon

Wild Pacific King Salmon in Pan

Pan-searing is one of the most popular ways to cook salmon because it creates a crisp, golden skin while keeping the inside tender and flaky. This stovetop method is quick and ideal for weeknight meals, delivering rich flavor and a slightly caramelized exterior. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a contrast in texture, with a crispy on the outside and buttery soft in the center.

How to pan-sear salmon

  1. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.

  2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil.

  3. Place the salmon skin-side down in the pan and press gently for a few seconds to keep it flat.

  4. Cook without moving it for about 4–5 minutes, until the skin is crisp.

  5. Flip carefully and cook another 2–4 minutes, depending on thickness.

  6. Remove from heat once the center flakes easily with a fork.

Oven-Baked Salmon

Salmon Fillet

Baking salmon in the oven is a simple and reliable cooking method that produces consistently moist results. The gentle, even heat allows the fish to cook through without drying out, making it an excellent choice for beginners or for preparing multiple portions at once. Oven-baked salmon is versatile and pairs well with a wide range of seasonings and side dishes.

How to bake salmon

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C)

  2. Place the salmon on a lined baking sheet or in a baking dish.

  3. Lightly season or brush with oil or melted butter.

  4. Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness.

  5. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature; salmon is perfectly cooked at 125–130°F for a tender, moist center.

  6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Grilled Salmon

Smoked Norwegian Salmon Slices

Grilling adds a distinct smoky flavor that enhances the natural richness of salmon. The high heat creates beautiful grill marks and a lightly charred exterior while maintaining a juicy interior. This method is especially popular during warmer months and works well for outdoor gatherings and fresh, seasonal meals.

How to grill salmon

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking.

  2. Lightly coat the salmon with oil and season as desired.

  3. Place the salmon skin-side down on the grill.

  4. Close the lid and cook for about 4–6 minutes.

  5. Flip carefully and cook another 2–4 minutes.

  6. Remove when the salmon is opaque and flakes easily.

Broiled Salmon

Copper River King Salmon

Broiling cooks salmon quickly using direct high heat from above, similar to an upside-down grill. This method creates a lightly crisped and caramelized top while keeping the inside moist and flaky. Broiled salmon is a great option when you want bold flavor and slight char without using an outdoor grill.

How to broil

  1. Preheat the broiler and position the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source.

  2. Place the salmon on a foil-lined baking sheet.

  3. Lightly oil and season the top of the fish.

  4. Broil for 6–10 minutes, depending on thickness.

  5. Watch closely to prevent burning; the top should lightly brown.

  6. Remove once the salmon flakes easily and is cooked through.