How to Cook Perfect Norwegian Salmon Every Time

Salmon is one of the most popular and commonly consumed fish around the world. Its rich, fatty texture makes it an exceptionally delicious option for home cooking Norwegian salmon in particular is renowned for its deep orange-red color and lush, buttery flavor

If you want to learn how to cook succulent moist Norwegian salmon with ease then you’ve come to the right place! In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through my simple, foolproof method for oven-baked Norwegian salmon along with plenty of tips and tricks. Let’s get started!

Why Choose Norwegian Salmon?

Norway is one of the world’s leading producers of Atlantic salmon. The cold, clear waters along Norway’s coastline provide an ideal environment for salmon farming. This results in salmon with a deeper color and more omega-3 fatty acids compared to farmed salmon from other regions.

When shopping for salmon, look for the words “Norwegian Salmon” on the packaging. This indicates it was raised in the pristine waters of Norway. The flesh should have a vibrant orange-red hue. Norwegian salmon tends to have a softer texture and richer flavor than wild varieties. It’s incredibly versatile for all sorts of delicious recipes.

Picking the Right Cut of Salmon

The most common cuts of salmon you’ll find at the grocery store are:

• Salmon fillets – These are boneless, skinless portions cut from the sides of the fish. Fillets cook quickly and are easy to portion.

• Salmon steaks – Steaks are cut across the fish and contain a cross section of the backbone. They take a bit longer to cook but make for an elegant presentation.

• Whole salmon – This is an entire side of the fish with head, tail, bones, and skin intact. Whole salmon requires advanced preparation but yields gorgeous servings.

For oven baking, I recommend using skin-on salmon fillets. The skin helps keep the delicate flesh intact during cooking. Aim for fillets that are 1-1.5 inches thick. The skin can be removed after cooking if desired.

Prep Your Salmon Like a Pro

Proper prep is key for maximizing the flavor and moisture of your baked salmon. Here are some tips:

• Dry the salmon well – Pat fillets thoroughly with paper towels. Any excess moisture on the surface can cause it to steam instead of browning.

• Season generously – Coat both sides with salt, pepper, and any other spices or herbs. The seasoning will form a tasty crust when baked.

• Do not overcrowd – Space fillets at least 1 inch apart on the baking sheet. Crowding will cause them to steam and stick together.

• Use a nonstick pan – Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or foil coated in nonstick spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Cook It to Absolute Perfection

Baking salmon in the oven at a high temperature is hands-down the easiest and most reliable cooking method. Follow these instructions:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F. This relatively high heat will give you a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender.

• Bake for 10-15 minutes depending on thickness. Salmon is done when it flakes easily and the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

• Resist the urge to flip the fillets during cooking. Allow them to bake undisturbed for optimal browning and even doneness.

• Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute so each bite is succulent and flavorful.

• Serve the salmon skin-side up for the prettiest presentation. The skin will lift right off once cooked.

That’s all it takes for perfectly cooked Norwegian salmon every single time! The fish comes out tender and flaky on the inside with a beautifully caramelized, crunchy exterior.

Elevate Your Salmon with Creative Toppings

A simple preparation of salmon needs nothing more than a squeeze of lemon or pat of butter. But you can also take your baked salmon to the next level with quick homemade toppings:

• Pesto – Spoon on vibrant basil or spinach pesto for herby flavor and color.

• Salsa – Fresh tomato salsa adds a punch of summery brightness.

• Yogurt sauce – Mix Greek yogurt with lemon, dill, and garlic for a cool complement.

• Mango – Slices of juicy mango make a tropical twist.

• Breadcrumbs – Toasted panko or Panko crumbs contribute crunch.

The options are endless! Let your imagination run wild with inventive new ways to dress up your salmon.

Pair Salmon with Suitable Side Dishes

Baked salmon deserves accompaniments that match its richness. Here are some excellent choices:

• Roasted potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes soak up any delicious pan juices.

• Rice pilaf – Nutty brown rice or quinoa absorb the salmon’s flavors.

• Roasted veggies – Salmon pairs perfectly with roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, carrots or broccoli.

• Salad – Balance the omega-3s with a fresh green or kale salad.

• Bread – Mop up any remaining juices with slices of crusty bread.

With a perfect salmon fillet and thoughtfully chosen sides, you have an amazing seafood dinner made easy.

So there you have it – everything you need to know for cooking flawless Norwegian salmon at home. Just follow my simple prep and baking steps for foolproof results every time. Vary the experience with creative toppings and complementary side dishes. Soon this versatility salmon will become a go-to meal in your weekly dinner rotation!

The “best” cooking method for salmon is subjective and depends on personal preferences, but baking and pan-searing are popular and highly recommended methods.