Salmon is a versatile and healthy fish, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins. Cooking salmon in the oven is one of the easiest and most flavorful methods, giving you a tender, juicy result with minimal fuss. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, oven-baked salmon is sure to impress. Here’s your step-by-step guide on how to cook salmon in the oven.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon (sliced)
- Fresh herbs (optional – thyme, rosemary, or dill work well)
- Garlic (optional – minced)
Instructions:
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on a baking sheet lined. Drizzle each fillet with olive oil, and use a brush or your hands to coat the surface evenly. This helps the fish stay moist while baking.
- Sprinkle the fillets with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add extra flavor by seasoning with minced garlic, fresh herbs, or even a sprinkle of paprika for a hint of smokiness.
If you like citrusy flavors, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets. Lay a couple of lemon slices on top of the fish for an extra burst of brightness as it bakes. • Place the salmon in the oven.
Related: salmon grill
How Long Does it Take to Fully Cook Salmon in the Oven?
The salmon in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes (depending on the thickness of the fillets). As a general rule, bake for 4-6 minutes per half-inch of thickness. For a 1-inch thick fillet, 12-15 minutes is usually perfect.
How to Know When Salmon is Done Baking
To know when your salmon is perfectly baked, the most reliable method is using a meat thermometer. Salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
This ensures the fish is fully cooked but still moist.
If you don’t have a meat thermometer there are a couple ways to know if your salmon is done cooking.
- Flake Test: Gently press the top of the salmon with a fork. When the fish flakes easily and the flesh is opaque (not translucent), it’s done. The flakes should separate without much resistance.
- Appearance: The salmon should turn a light pinkish color and the flesh should appear opaque. If it's still translucent or soft, it may need more time.
If you're unsure, it's better to slightly undercook it, as salmon continues to cook a little after it's removed from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving!
Is It Better to Bake Salmon at 350 or 400?
It depends on the texture and how you prefer your salmon!
At 350°F (175°C), you’ll get a gentler, slower cook, which helps keep the salmon moist and tender. It’s a great option for a softer, more delicate texture. At 400°F (200°C), the salmon will cook a bit faster and develop a slightly crispier exterior, while still staying juicy inside.
If you like a slightly crispier crust or a faster cook, this is the way to go. In both cases, aim for an internal temperature of around 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked salmon. If you want a balance of crispiness and tenderness, 400°F is probably your best bet!
How to Store and Reheat
Storing and reheating salmon properly is key to keeping it fresh and delicious.
Store The Salmon
Use plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or an airtight container to store the salmon. If you’re using plastic wrap or foil, make sure it’s tightly sealed to avoid air exposure, which can dry out the fish.
Store the salmon in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze cooked salmon. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe bag/container. Frozen cooked salmon can last up to 3 months.
Reheat The Salmon
To reheat oven-baked salmon, warm it slow and low and add a splash of water too for added moisture. I also like to reheat all types of salmon in the oven or a pan on the stove rather than microwaving as microwaving also tends to dry meat out faster when reheating. You can use your oven's Steam Bake mode to heat it up, so shop for an oven that has multiple modes.
Is it Better to Cook Salmon in Foil or Not?
Cooking in foil helps lock in moisture, making the salmon super tender and juicy. It also helps infuse flavors (like herbs, lemon, or garlic) into the fish. This method is great for ensuring the salmon stays moist and doesn’t dry out. It’s also a bit more forgiving if you’re not as experienced with cooking fish. Cooking without foil allows for a crispy, slightly caramelized exterior, especially if you sear the salmon first or cook it at a higher temperature.
In short:
- For moist, tender salmon: use foil.
- For a crispy exterior and more intense flavor: cook without foil.
- Either way, you’re bound to get delicious salmon!
Is it Better to Fry or Oven-cook Salmon?
For crispy texture and quick cook time: fry.
For even cooking, more moisture, and a hands-off approach: oven.
Both methods can yield fantastic results, so it’s all about your preference for texture and ease!
What Are the Five Types of Salmon?
There are five main types of salmon, each with its own distinct characteristics and flavor profile.
These include Chinook, also known as King salmon, which is the largest and fattiest variety, prized for its rich, buttery texture and deep flavor. Sockeye, or Red salmon, is known for its bright red flesh and firm texture, offering a bold, slightly sweet taste that’s great for grilling or smoking.
Coho, or Silver salmon, has a milder flavor and lighter texture compared to Chinook and Sockeye, making it a versatile choice for a variety of cooking methods. Pink salmon, the most abundant and affordable variety, is smaller with a lighter, more delicate flavor, often used in canned salmon or as a milder option for dishes like salads or sandwiches.
Lastly, Chum, or Keta salmon, has a lower fat content and a more subtle flavor, but it’s often prized for its rich, meaty texture, commonly used for making smoked salmon or roe. Each type of salmon offers unique qualities, so the best one for you really depends on the dish and your taste preferences.
Is Salmon Healthy?
Yes, salmon is very healthy! It’s an excellent source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals. The omega-3s found in salmon—particularly EPA and DHA—are known to have heart-healthy benefits, such as reducing inflammation, improving cholesterol levels, and supporting brain health. Salmon is also rich in vitamins B12 and D, which are important for energy production, bone health, and immune function. Additionally, it provides selenium, a mineral that helps with antioxidant defense and thyroid function. Because salmon is a fatty fish, it’s also a great source of healthy fats, which are crucial for overall well-being. When consumed regularly as part of a balanced diet, salmon can support cardiovascular health, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and promote general vitality. Just be mindful of how it’s prepared—grilled, baked, or steamed are healthier cooking methods, while frying can add unnecessary fats. Purchasing an oven with grilling, baking, and steaming can be a lot easier.
Ciarra Nosh Electric Oven
The Ciarra Nosh Oven is a game-changer for busy households that prioritize health, convenience, and flavor. With its 8-in-1 functionality, this compact yet stylish oven is an all-in-one solution for grilling, baking, steaming, and much more, making it perfect for those who want to create healthy, delicious meals with ease.
One of the standout features of the Nosh Oven is its moisture retention technology. It ensures that your food stays juicy and tender, preventing dishes from drying out—whether you're cooking meats, vegetables, or baked goods. It also boasts a 20-second surging steam function that quickly locks in freshness and enhances tenderness, making your meals not only healthier but also faster to prepare.
The 360° Hot Air 3D Cycle Baking guarantees even heat distribution, resulting in perfectly baked dishes without excess grease. You can expect healthier, crispier outcomes, thanks to the oven’s ability to eliminate grease effectively.
In terms of versatility, the Nosh Oven does it all: it serves as an oven, air fryer, yogurt maker, toaster, fermenter, thawing box, barbecue stove, fruit dryer, and bread machine. It also allows you to cook with steam, preserving more nutrients compared to traditional baking or frying, and requires little to no oil, making it an excellent choice for healthier cooking.
With faster cooking times thanks to efficient steam conduction, it’s ideal for those with a busy lifestyle. Plus, its steam-cleaning function makes cleaning a breeze, loosening food residues so you can wipe them away effortlessly.
If you’re into baking, the Nosh Oven is equipped with settings for proofing dough and fermenting foods, making it perfect for homemade bread, yogurt, or sourdough. The removable 20.2 oz water reservoir and water shortage alert make refilling and maintenance simple, ensuring optimal performance.
Backed by a 24-month warranty, the Ciarra Nosh Oven is an all-in-one kitchen tool designed for ease, convenience, and healthy cooking. Whether you're grilling, baking, or steaming, this oven has everything you need to cook like a pro!
Conclusion
Cooking salmon in the Ciarra Nosh Oven is one of the easiest and most flavorful ways to prepare this healthy fish. With just a few simple ingredients and a little attention to timing, you can create a delicious, restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, oven-baked salmon is a dish anyone can master. Enjoy!