Salmon is enjoyed all over the world and prepared in countless ways.
Almost everyone has tasted salmon, but most people have never baked it.
Baking isn’t just for sweet items like pastries and cakes.
It’s also one of the best ways to cook salmon.
With some key accessories and some simple steps, you can learn the perfect temperature for baked salmon and have it come out perfectly every time.
Start by Preheating Your Oven
Salmon should be cooked at a high temperature of 400°F.
You should preheat your oven to get it up to temperature before you start baking.
Most ovens have some variation in temperature and the actual internal temperature won’t always match the setting.
If you get inconsistent results from your oven, you can use an oven thermometer to get the setting right every time.
This Oven Thermometer is a reliable option, and you can even use it inside your hooded grill.
Start the Baking Process
You can cook salmon on any baking tray.
The easiest method would be to use a nonstick baking tray rather than paper.
This will prevent the delicate fish from sticking, and it will make the cleanup a lot easier.
Arrange either a whole side or individual cuts of salmon on the tray.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil.
All you need to do next is place the salmon in your preheated oven on the middle rack, and let the magic happen.
Times and Temperature for Baked Salmon
For smaller cuts of salmon (around six ounces), you will need to bake for around 12 minutes.
For a whole side of salmon, you’ll need around 17 minutes.
Because cooking times vary depending on the design of an oven, the best way to check your salmon is to measure the internal temperature.
The salmon is safe and fully cooked when the interior temperature reaches 135°F.
You can use any meat thermometer to check this, including this Digital Meat Probe.
Serving Baked Salmon
You can serve the salmon as-is, right out of the oven.
You can also further season it with a sprinkle of lime juice or even an herb mix of your choice.
Salmon tastes wonderful with a little specialty mayonnaise.
This Japanese Mayonnaise is perfect for authentic baked salmon.
If you prefer a more aggressive flavor with your fish, you can sprinkle a little herb mix after cooking.
Dill and fennel are ideal for salmon.
Or you could even use any mixed herb seasoning like this Garlic & Herb Seasoning for some bite and zest.
Why Does Baked Salmon Taste Better?
If you’re used to eating salmon that’s underwhelming, it’s probably because it’s overcooked.
When you know the right temperature to cook baked salmon, you’ll enjoy flavorsome and moist fish that is as good as anything you’d find at a high-end restaurant.
Salmon, like all baked ingredients, benefits from getting the temperature right.
With the above instructions, you’ll have gourmet salmon in just a few minutes.
