Cook Salmon

Tools

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil
• Instant-read thermometer
• Fork

Materials

• Salmon fillets
• Cooking oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Optional lemon or herbs

Safety

• Keep raw salmon refrigerated until preparation.
• Wash your hands, utensils, and surfaces after handling raw salmon.
• Keep raw salmon separate from ready-to-eat foods to prevent cross-contamination.
• Cook salmon to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
• Do not eat salmon that smells strongly sour, ammonia-like, or otherwise spoiled.

Steps

1. Step 1: Prepare the oven and salmon

   • Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
   • Pat the salmon dry with paper towels, then place it skin-side down on the sheet.
   • Brush lightly with oil and season with salt and pepper.

   Check: The oven has reached 400°F (200°C). · The salmon is kept separate from ready-to-eat foods.

2. Step 2: Bake the salmon

   • Bake the salmon for about 10–15 minutes, depending on the fillet's thickness.
   • Begin checking the thickest part near the end of the cooking time.

   Check: The thickest part reaches 145°F (63°C) on an instant-read thermometer. · The flesh flakes easily when tested with a fork.

3. Step 3: Rest and serve

   • Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for 2–3 minutes.
   • Serve with lemon or herbs if desired.
   • Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

   Check: The salmon is fully cooked throughout. · Leftovers are covered and refrigerated promptly.