How to Cook Salmon? Baked Salmon Recipe and Tips

Summary

How should salmon be cooked? Baking salmon in the oven is a practical and delicious cooking method. In this recipe, you can find useful tips for preventing salmon from drying out in the oven, the ideal cooking temperature, and the answer to the question, “How long does salmon take to cook in the oven?”

Estimated Reading Time: 4 minutes

Ingredients for Baked Salmon

• 2 salmon fillets

• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 lemon

• 1 clove of garlic

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Thyme or dill, optional

How to Cook Salmon

1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with kitchen paper without washing them.

2. Brush the salmon with olive oil.

3. Season both sides lightly with salt and black pepper.

4. Finely slice the garlic and place it over the salmon.

5. Add lemon slices over or beside the fillets.

6. Place the salmon in an oven-safe cast iron dish.

7. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C for approximately 15–20 minutes.

8. Check whether the salmon is cooked when the flesh starts to flake easily with a fork.

9. Remove from the oven and leave to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Cooking Salmon in the Oven

To prevent salmon from drying out, it is important to adjust the cooking time according to the thickness of the fillets. Thin fillets may cook more quickly, while thicker pieces may require a little longer.

Removing excess moisture from the salmon before placing it in the oven can help the surface cook more effectively. Brushing the fish with a thin layer of olive oil can also help prevent the surface from drying out during cooking.

Avoid leaving the salmon in the oven for longer than necessary. Check the fish when the flesh is beginning to flake easily and has not become completely dry.

How Long Does Salmon Take to Cook in the Oven?

Salmon can take approximately 15–20 minutes to cook in a preheated oven at 200°C. The exact time can vary depending on the thickness of the fillets, portion size and oven performance.

Thicker pieces of salmon may require a longer cooking time. For this reason, it is important to check the texture of the fish rather than relying on cooking time alone.

How to Serve Baked Salmon

Serve the baked salmon with lemon slices, dill and seasonal greens. Roasted vegetables, potatoes or a seasonal salad can also be served alongside.

Salmon prepared in a cast iron dish can retain its heat for a while after coming out of the oven, allowing it to be served warm.

Frequently Asked Questions About How to Cook Salmon

How should salmon be cooked?

Salmon can be cooked in the oven, in a frying pan or on a grill. To bake it, season the salmon fillets with olive oil and herbs or spices, then cook at 200°C for approximately 15–20 minutes.

How can salmon be cooked without drying it out?

To prevent salmon from drying out, avoid extending the cooking time unnecessarily. Adjust the cooking time according to the thickness of the fillet and check the texture while it cooks.

What temperature should salmon be cooked at in the oven?

200°C is a suitable starting temperature for baking salmon. The temperature and cooking time can be adjusted according to the oven and the thickness of the salmon.

How long does salmon take to cook in the oven?

Salmon can generally take around 15–20 minutes at 200°C. Thicker fillets may require additional cooking time.

What goes well with baked salmon?

Baked salmon can be served with seasonal salad, rocket, lemon, roasted vegetables or potatoes.