How Long to Cook Salmon on the Stove: A Guide to Perfectly Cooked Fish
Cooking salmon on the stovetop is a quick and easy way to enjoy this delicious and healthy fish. But getting it just right—perfectly flaky and moist—requires knowing how long to cook it. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring your salmon is cooked to perfection every time.
Factors Affecting Salmon Cooking Time
Several factors influence how long your salmon needs to cook on the stove:
- Thickness: The thicker the fillet, the longer the cooking time. A 1-inch thick fillet will cook faster than a 1.5-inch fillet.
- Heat: High heat cooks salmon faster, but increases the risk of burning. Medium heat is generally recommended for even cooking.
- Desired Doneness: Do you prefer your salmon rare, medium-rare, medium, or well-done? The cooking time will vary depending on your preference.
Cooking Time Guide for Stovetop Salmon
This guide provides approximate cooking times for different thicknesses and doneness levels. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy, aiming for an internal temperature of:
- 125°F (52°C): Rare
- 130°F (54°C): Medium-rare
- 140°F (60°C): Medium (most people's preference)
- 145°F (63°C): Medium-well
- 150°F (66°C): Well-done (dry)
Remember: These are guidelines. Your stove and pan may affect cooking times slightly.
| Salmon Thickness | Rare (125°F) | Medium-Rare (130°F) | Medium (140°F) | Medium-Well (145°F) | Well-Done (150°F) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ½ inch | 2-3 minutes per side | 3-4 minutes per side | 4-5 minutes per side | 5-6 minutes per side | 6-7 minutes per side |
| 1 inch | 4-5 minutes per side | 5-6 minutes per side | 6-7 minutes per side | 7-8 minutes per side | 8-9 minutes per side |
| 1 ½ inches | 6-7 minutes per side | 7-8 minutes per side | 8-9 minutes per side | 9-10 minutes per side | 10-11 minutes per side |
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Stovetop Salmon
- Pat it dry: Before cooking, pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them sear properly and develop a nice crust.
- Use a good quality pan: A heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan will provide even heat distribution.
- Add oil or butter: Add a little oil or butter to the pan to prevent sticking.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking multiple fillets at once can lower the pan temperature, resulting in uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer: The most accurate way to determine doneness is with a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the fillet.
- Let it rest: Allow the salmon to rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful fillet.
Delicious Stovetop Salmon Recipes to Try
Now that you know how to perfectly cook salmon on the stovetop, why not explore some delicious recipes? Search online for "easy stovetop salmon recipes" or "pan-seared salmon recipes" to find inspiration. You can experiment with different herbs, spices, and sauces to create your own signature dish!
By following these tips and guidelines, you'll be able to cook delicious, perfectly cooked salmon on the stovetop every time. Enjoy!
