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How to Cook Salmon

Salmon is a tasty, versatile fish that can be prepared in a variety of ways. Whether you’re enjoying your salmon as part of a Christmas feast or just a midweek dinner, make sure you look for the RSPCA Assured logo to ensure your salmon is higher welfare.

What is the Best Method to Cook Salmon?

The best method to cook salmon depends on your personal tastes and, obviously, the recipe you’re following. Some of the most common methods for cooking salmon include grilling, baking, poaching, and pan-frying - see more information below.

How Long Should Salmon Be Cooked For?

Cooking times vary depending on how you cook your salmon and how thick the fillets are. In general, salmon should be cooked for 8 to 12 minutes. To avoid drying it out, salmon should be cooked quickly at a higher temperature rather than for longer at a lower temperature.

Can You Cook Salmon From Raw?

Yes, salmon can be cooked from raw, although it is important to handle it safely to avoid food poisoning.

How Do You Know When Salmon Is Properly Cooked?

You’ll know your salmon is cooked through because the flesh becomes flaky when prodded with a fork.

Is It Better To Cook Salmon on the Stove or in the Oven?

Baking salmon in the oven is a simple, hands-off method that leaves the fish moist and tender. Pan-frying, on the other hand, is quicker and will give you crispier and tastier salmon.

Find RSPCA Assured Salmon at your Favourite Supermarket

RSPCA Assured Salmon Welfare

You can find out more about the higher welfare standards of salmon on RSPCA Assured farms.

Different Ways To Cook Your RSPCA Assured Salmon

Grilled Salmon

Grilled salmon is quick and easy, and a great choice for weekday dinners when you might not have that much time for cooking.

How To Grill Salmon
  1. Heat the grill to medium-high heat and brush the salmon fillets with olive oil
  2. Place the salmon on the grill and sprinkle over a little salt and pepper
  3. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until the salmon is cooked through
  4. Serve with lemon juice to taste
Grilled Salmon
Baked Salmon

Baking is another simple and cost-effective way to cook salmon and a great way to turn it into a centrepiece for your table.

How To Bake Salmon
  1. Preheat the oven to 190°C
  2. Place the salmon fillets on the baking tray and brush them with olive oil
  3. Sprinkle with salt and pepper
  4. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through
  5. Serve with roasted vegetables
Baked Salmon
Poached Salmon

Poaching salmon is the ideal way to really appreciate the fish’s delicate flavour and enjoy it as a light meal.

How To Poach Salmon
  1. Fill a large saucepan with water and bring it to a simmer
  2. Carefully lower the salmon fillets in the water and simmer for 5-6 minutes
  3. Serve with salad or steamed vegetables for a healthy and filling lunch
  4. Enjoy
Poached Salmon
Is It Better to Cook Salmon
in Oil or Butter?

Both olive oil and butter can be used to cook salmon but it really comes down to a matter of personal preference. Olive oil has a milder flavour and could be considered the healthier option, while butter will add a richer, savoury flavour to your salmon.

What Should I Season My Salmon With?

How you season salmon depends on your tastes and the recipe. Typical seasonings for salmon include salt, pepper, lemon juice, and herbs such as dill, parsley, and chives.

Should Salmon Be Cooked Covered in the Oven?

Covering salmon in the oven with foil is not necessary and some people prefer to leave the salmon uncovered so the skin becomes crispy. But if you prefer your salmon to have a moister and more tender flavour, you might like to keep it covered.

How to Remove the Skin from Salmon?

Salmon skin can easily be removed by placing it in a bowl and pouring boiling water over it. Once drained, you will easily be able to peel the skin off.

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