How to Cook One Side of Salmon

Salmon is packed with protein and low in fat. And the fat it does contain is the heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acid. But if you've ever tried to cook a piece of salmon, then you know it can be a bit tricky. Here are some tips on how to cook one side of the salmon before flipping.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Place your skillet on the stove and turn the burner onto medium-high. Add whatever ingredients you'd like to use to sauté the salmon. There are wide varieties of recipes. You can simply add a touch of olive oil, salt and pepper, or create an herb crust. Whatever the recipe, just make sure the pan is well lubricated by using oil or non-stick cooking spray. Then add your other ingredients and allow them to sauté for a couple of minutes.
2. Scoop your ingredients to one side of the pan to make room for your salmon. Put your salmon in the skillet and let it cook.
3. Pile on any herb crusted ingredients right on top of the salmon. While you are searing the bottom of the salmon, you can create the crust on the other side. Just use a spatula or tongs to make a nice thin herb crusted layer.
4. Allow the salmon to cook for several minutes (determine cooking time by thickness of the salmon) then flip your salmon at the appropriate time. The top will be seared while your herb crusted recipe will be forming on the bottom.
5. Check the temperature of your salmon to see if the fish is cooked so that you can complete your recipe. Salmon is ready at a temperature of between 130 to 145 degrees. Insert a meat thermometer into the middle of the fish and take a reading.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also use this method of cooking when placing the salmon on the grill. Just keep the herb crust in a piece of tin foil. Then add it to the top of the salmon as the bottom cooks.