Cooking salmon is relatively easy and can be done in several ways depending on your preferences. Below are a few popular methods for cooking salmon:

1. Baked Salmon

Baking is one of the healthiest ways to cook salmon, and it requires minimal preparation.

Ingredients:

• 1-2 salmon fillets (skin on or off, your choice)
• Olive oil or melted butter
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Lemon slices (optional)
• Fresh herbs like dill or thyme (optional)
• Garlic (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the salmon by placing it on a lined baking sheet or in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter, and season with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
3. Optional: Add lemon slices on top of the salmon or scatter fresh herbs around the fish.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon should flake easily with a fork when done.
5. Serve: Remove from the oven, and serve immediately with sides like vegetables, rice, or a salad.

2. Pan-Seared Salmon

This method gives you a crispy, golden crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and moist.

Ingredients:

• 1-2 salmon fillets
• Olive oil or butter
• Salt and pepper
• Lemon wedges (optional)
• Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat a pan: Heat a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter.
2. Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture (this helps get a crispy skin). Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the salmon: Place the fillets skin-side down (if they have skin) in the pan. Press gently to ensure it makes full contact with the pan. Cook for 4-6 minutes until the skin is crispy and the salmon is cooked about halfway through.
4. Flip and finish cooking: Flip the salmon carefully, and cook for another 3-4 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet.
5. Serve: Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and optional herbs.

3. Grilled Salmon

Grilling adds a smoky flavor and is perfect for warm weather.

Ingredients:

• 1-2 salmon fillets or steaks
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Lemon slices
• Fresh herbs or seasoning (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C).
2. Prepare the salmon: Brush the fillets or steaks with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices.
3. Grill the salmon: Place the salmon skin-side down on the grill. Close the lid and cook for 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fish.
4. Check for doneness: The salmon should easily flake with a fork when it’s done. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 120°F (49°C).
5. Serve: Serve hot off the grill with a squeeze of lemon juice and your favorite sides.

4. Poached Salmon

Poaching is a gentle cooking method that results in a moist, tender salmon.

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets or steaks
• 2 cups water or broth
• 1 lemon (sliced)
• 1-2 sprigs of fresh dill or thyme (optional)
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the poaching liquid: In a large skillet or saucepan, add the water (or broth) along with lemon slices and herbs. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the salmon: Once the liquid is simmering, carefully add the salmon fillets. The water should come about halfway up the sides of the fish.
3. Poach the salmon: Reduce the heat to low and let the fish cook gently for about 8-10 minutes, depending on thickness. The salmon should be opaque and easily flake with a fork.
4. Serve: Remove the salmon from the poaching liquid and serve with your favorite sides.

5. Salmon in Foil (En Papillote)

Cooking salmon in foil is an easy and mess-free way to infuse flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1-2 salmon fillets
• Olive oil or butter
• Salt and pepper
• Lemon slices
• Fresh herbs (like dill, parsley, or thyme)
• Garlic (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the foil: Lay out a large sheet of aluminum foil. Place the salmon fillet in the center of the foil.
3. Season the fish: Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter, season with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Place lemon slices and herbs on top.
4. Seal the foil: Fold the sides of the foil over the salmon to create a sealed packet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Serve: Open the foil packet carefully and serve the salmon with your favorite side dishes.

Tips for Perfect Salmon:

• Don’t overcook: Salmon cooks quickly, so watch it carefully to avoid dry fish. It’s done when it flakes easily with a fork but is still moist inside.
• Leave the skin on (optional): The skin helps hold the fish together while cooking and adds extra flavor when crisped.
• Rest the salmon: After cooking, let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

Each method brings out different flavors and textures, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences!