Jun 18, 2024, Updated Nov 01, 2024 The USDA recommends cooking salmon to an internal temperature of 145ºF for food safety. However, many chefs and cooking experts suggest that for optimal taste and moisture, cooking salmon to 125ºF is sufficient if the fish is of high quality and properly handled. The salmon gets baked in a coat of mayonnaise-based sauce, which locks in moisture and the salmon’s flavor. Have it on the table in under 20 minutes, you guys – ultra delicious flaky salmon. Made with just a handful of ingredients and cooked in mere minutes. I’ve paired the salmon fillets with a light slaw and creamy avocado for extra comfort and luxury.
Let the salmon sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes prior to cooking them. Whip the salmon off the grill when it reaches an internal temperature of 125-130ºF Rest the salmon for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to settle.
Think flaky, fall-apart salmon that you DON’T need to thaw! This 12-minute recipe is what I reach for on crazy busy nights when I’ve forgotten to thaw the salmon… I love how the air fryer gives me perfectly cooked salmon, moist in the middle with a delicate, crisp outer layer. Want to make a salmon teriyaki bowl? This is the recipe for you! It’s also cooked in a flash at 425F! With its sassy spice rub and rich pan sauce, it is loaded with Cajun flavors! This 10-minute meal delivers glossy, glowing salmon thanks to the butter-basting method. I love the charred grill lines on these skewers – they look INCREDIBLE! Serve them with simple basmati rice and a fresh salad like my strawberry spinach salad. One of the reasons I love serving salmon for dinner, other than how yummy it is, is that it is SO quick to cook. The richness of salmon pairs well with this light, fruity salsa. Juicy, beautifully cooked salmon gets wedged inside soft white rolls with fresh, earthy pea sprouts. The delicious lemon dill aioli adds extra flavor and creaminess to the whole situation. I love these for a summer picnic, a potluck, or an easy gathering.
1. Choose the Right Salmon
Start with fresh, high-quality salmon. Look for fillets that are firm to the touch, vibrant in color, and mildly fishy. Most “fresh” fish at the grocery store has been previously frozen, so buying it frozen and thawing it yourself will actually be fresher.
2. Brine Before Cooking
Brining the salmon in a solution of water and salt helps to retain moisture during cooking. A simple brine of water and salt can do wonders.
3. Use a Meat Thermometer
For perfectly flaky salmon, aim for a cooking temperature between 125ºF and 140ºF. Within this range, the collagen converts to gelatin gradually, keeping the fish moist and tender. Cooking past this point leads to moisture loss, resulting in dry, tough salmon. For those aiming for the best texture while still being cautious about safety, it’s important to use high-quality, fresh salmon, preferably sushi-grade. For maximum safety, especially for those with compromised immune systems, it’s advisable to stick to the USDA recommendation of 145ºF.
Overcooking Consequences:
Beyond 140ºF: Cooking salmon beyond this temperature causes the proteins to denature excessively. This results in the loss of moisture, making the fish dry and tough.
5. Rest Before Serving
Allow the cooked salmon to rest for a few minutes before serving it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the fish, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
6. Try Using Foil or Parchment
Cooking salmon en papillote (in parchment paper) or wrapped in foil helps to lock in moisture and flavor. This method creates a steamy environment that keeps the salmon moist while infusing it with any added seasonings or aromatics.
7. Choose Fattier Cuts
Fattier cuts of salmon, such as king or sockeye salmon, tend to be more moist and flavorful compared to leaner varieties like coho or pink salmon.
Delicious Side Dishes to Serve with Moist Salmon Recipes
My favorite part of serving salmon for dinner is choosing the sides to go with it. Simple asparagus – steamed or pan-fried asparagus are a classic partner to juicy salmon. Another ideal side is a bowl of blanched green beans. Generally, mild vegetables, cooked in a simple way work beautifully with salmon. I love to pair a grilled or baked salmon recipe with my au gratin potatoes – such a treat! Here’s my full collection of favorite side dishes for salmon recipes.
