Cooking a salmon fillet on the stove is a relatively simple and quick process. Here's a basic recipe to help you get started:
Ingredients:
- 1 salmon fillet
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil or cooking oil of your choice
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
Start by patting the salmon fillet dry with a paper towel. Removing excess moisture helps with achieving a nice sear on the outside.
Season both sides of the salmon fillet with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. You can use a moderate amount of salt and a sprinkle of pepper.
Place a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet on the stove over medium-high heat. Allow the pan to get hot.
Add a tablespoon or two of olive oil or your preferred cooking oil to the skillet. Swirl the oil around to coat the pan evenly.
Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned salmon fillet in the skillet, skin side down if it has skin. The skin helps to hold the fish together while cooking and can be easily removed later if desired.
Cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes on the first side, without moving it around. This allows the bottom to develop a nice crust.
Gently flip the salmon fillet using a spatula. If your fillet has skin, you can remove it easily at this point by sliding the spatula between the skin and the flesh. Cook the salmon for an additional 3-4 minutes on the second side.
The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the salmon fillet and your desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare to medium salmon, aim for an internal temperature of 125-130°F (52-54°C) in the thickest part of the fillet. If you prefer it more well-done, you can cook it a little longer.
Once cooked to your liking, remove the salmon from the pan and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps the fish retain its moisture and allows the flavors to settle.
Serve the salmon fillet with lemon wedges if desired, which can be squeezed over the fish to add a hint of acidity and freshness.
Feel free to adjust the seasonings and cooking time based on your personal preferences and the thickness of your salmon fillet. Enjoy your deliciously cooked salmon!