If you’ve ever wondered how to cook salmon for a juicy, flavorful, and restaurant-quality meal, you’re in the right place! Salmon is one of those fish that’s both versatile and elegant, and you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up a perfect fillet with minimal ingredients and a handful of simple techniques. In this guide, we’re diving into three foolproof ways to prepare mouthwatering salmon, with plenty of tips and serving ideas to make every bite truly memorable.

How to Cook Salmon Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s keep things delightfully simple! Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role—some provide a pop of fresh flavor, others create a golden crust, and a few cozy companions bring out the best in salmon’s buttery texture and gorgeous color.

Salmon Fillets (4, about 6 oz each): The star of the show—choose fresh, vibrant pink fillets, skin-on for extra crispiness or skinless if you prefer lighter bites.
Olive Oil or Melted Butter (2 tbsp): Adds luscious moisture and helps the seasonings adhere, while creating a subtly rich finish.
Lemon (zested and sliced into wedges): Lemon zest brightens the whole dish, while wedges are perfect for squeezing over your finished salmon.
Garlic, minced (2 cloves, optional): For a savory kick, minced garlic brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
Salt and Black Pepper, to taste: Classic seasonings that bring out all the natural goodness in your salmon.
Fresh Herbs (dill, parsley, or thyme, optional): A sprinkle of herbs adds vibrant color and a layer of fresh aroma to the final plate.

How to Make How to Cook Salmon

Step 1: Prep Your Salmon and Pan

Start by preheating your oven or air fryer, or getting your skillet ready. Pat your salmon fillets dry with a paper towel—this is essential for a crispy crust and even flavor. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil if you’re going the oven route, and set out your ingredients so everything’s within reach for a seamless experience.

Step 2: Season Every Fillet

Brush each salmon fillet generously with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and a dusting of lemon zest. If you’re a garlic lover, massage that minced garlic over the top for an extra punch. Each fillet should look glossy and vibrant, ready for the next step!

Step 3: Oven-Baked Perfection

To bake, arrange your seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Slide into your preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Bake for 12–15 minutes—the edges will darken slightly, the center will still be tender, and the salmon will flake apart when prodded with a fork. Don’t forget to finish with lemon wedges and sprinkle on fresh herbs for that final flourish!

Step 4: Pan-Seared Method

Craving crispy skin? Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Tuck your fillets in, skin-side down, and let them sizzle undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until you see golden, crunchy perfection. Flip gently and cook another 2–4 minutes—the flesh turns opaque and oh-so-moist. Finish with a generous squeeze of lemon juice right in the pan to capture all those aromatic juices.

Step 5: Air Fryer Ease

If you want speed without sacrificing texture, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil and season each fillet, arrange them in a single layer in the basket, and cook for 8–10 minutes. The air fryer works wonders for even cooking and a beautiful, slightly crisp exterior—no flipping required! Serve immediately for best results.

How to Serve How to Cook Salmon

Garnishes

For that satisfying restaurant finish, sprinkle your salmon fillets with a handful of fresh dill, parsley, or thyme. A few turns of cracked black pepper, a flourish of lemon zest, and those all-important lemon wedges on the side make for a plate that looks as good as it tastes. Don’t be shy with the fresh herbs—they add aroma, color, and a layer of garden-fresh flavor that takes things up a notch!

Side Dishes

How to cook salmon isn’t just about the fish—think of the sides as your supporting cast. Roasted vegetable medleys, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple rice pilaf are failsafe crowd-pleasers. For lighter cravings, serve alongside a crisp green salad or fluffy quinoa. The mild richness of salmon makes it the ultimate match for so many styles!

Creative Ways to Present

Impress your guests (or just treat yourself!) by arranging the fillets over vibrant salads, tucking them into warm grain bowls, or even flaking the cooked salmon into tacos with tangy slaw. Don’t be afraid to play with sauces—try a quick yogurt-dill drizzle or spicy sriracha mayo for something bold and new. How to cook salmon becomes even more fun when creative plating is part of the experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover salmon, store the cooled fillets in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. They’ll taste fresh for up to 2 days, making lunch or dinner the next day a breeze. Cold salmon is fantastic atop salads or tucked into wraps!

Freezing

To freeze your cooked salmon, let it cool completely, then wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing in a zip-top bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or enjoying chilled.

Reheating

To gently reheat salmon and maintain its moisture, place the fillets on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and warm in a 275°F (135°C) oven for about 10–12 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which can make the texture rubbery. A fresh squeeze of lemon and sprinkle of fresh herbs will help revive the flavor!

FAQs

How do I know when salmon is fully cooked?

Salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 135–145°F (57–63°C). The flesh will appear opaque and moist rather than translucent. If you’re unsure, seek the thickest part—it should yield under gentle pressure.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thoroughly thaw your salmon overnight in the refrigerator or under gently running cold water. Pat dry before seasoning to ensure you get the best texture when following how to cook salmon using any method.

What’s the best way to get crispy skin?

For irresistible crispy skin, the pan-seared method is your best bet. Start with dry fillets, heat your skillet until sizzling hot, and don’t move the salmon while it cooks skin-side down. Patience pays off for that golden crunch!

Is it better to use butter or olive oil?

Both butter and olive oil bring wonderful flavors, but butter creates a slightly richer, more decadent finish, while olive oil keeps things light and heart-healthy. You can even use both for the ultimate blend!

What herbs go best with how to cook salmon?

Dill, parsley, and thyme are classic choices that pair beautifully with salmon’s mellow flavor. You can also try chives or tarragon for a twist, or mix a medley for a fresh, herbal bouquet in every bite.

Final Thoughts

If you’re on the hunt for an easy, impressive main dish, give how to cook salmon a try. With just a handful of ingredients and three super straightforward cooking methods, you’ll serve up something that looks beautiful and tastes even better. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or a fancy get-together, this salmon recipe is bound to steal the show—so grab your fillets and get cooking!

How to Cook Salmon Recipe