I. Introduction

Are you craving a delicious and nutritious dinner option that can be ready in no time? Look no further than pan-seared salmon! In this guide, we will provide you with an easy-to-follow recipe for cooking salmon in a pan. Not only is this dish quick to prepare, but salmon is also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

II. Step 1: Preparing the Salmon

The first step in cooking salmon in a pan is to choose the right type of salmon. Look for salmon with a bright pink or orange color, and avoid any fish that has a strong fishy smell or discolored spots. Once you’ve selected your salmon, season it with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the fish and help it to form a nice crust when seared.

III. Step 2: Prepping the Pan

When it comes to pan-searing salmon, you want to choose a pan that is heavy and oven-safe, such as a cast-iron or stainless steel skillet. Preheat your pan over medium-high heat, and add enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Wait until the oil is hot enough to shimmer before adding your salmon to the pan.

IV. Step 3: Cooking the Salmon

Place your seasoned salmon skin-side down in the hot pan, and let it cook for 4-5 minutes without moving it. Then, use a fish spatula to gently flip the salmon over and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your salmon fillet, but a good rule of thumb is to cook the fish for 3-4 minutes per 1/2 inch of thickness. To check if your salmon is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to ensure the thickest part of the fish has reached an internal temperature of 145°F. Another way to tell if the salmon is done is to look for flakes that easily separate when you press the flesh with a fork.

V. Step 4: Resting the Salmon

After cooking, it’s important to let your salmon rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the fish and make it more tender and flavorful. To keep the salmon warm while it’s resting, you can tent it with foil or place it in a warm oven (around 200°F) until you’re ready to serve.

VI. Step 5: Serving and Enjoying the Salmon

To plate your salmon for presentation, you can serve it skin-side down with any additional seasoning or toppings of your choice, such as fresh lemon juice, herbs, or butter. For side dishes, roasted vegetables, quinoa, or rice pilaf are great options that pair well with salmon. Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-make meal!

VII. Conclusion

Now that you know how to cook salmon in a pan, you can enjoy this healthy and flavorful dish any night of the week. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to create a delicious and impressive meal in no time. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and side dishes to make this recipe your own.