Cooking salmon in the microwave may seem unusual, but it’s actually a quick, easy and healthy way to get dinner on the table fast. With just a few simple steps, you can make moist, flaky salmon fillets in your microwave in just 5-10 minutes.
As someone who loves salmon but often finds themselves pressed for time in the kitchen I was thrilled to discover this speedy cooking method. I’ve experimented with microwaving salmon many times now and have learned what works best to achieve perfect results every time.
In this complete guide, I’ll share everything I know about cooking salmon in the microwave. Here’s what we’ll cover
- Benefits of Microwaving Salmon
- How Long to Microwave Salmon
- Step-by-Step Guide
- Microwave Salmon Recipe Ideas
- Expert Tips for Best Results
- FAQs
Let’s get started!
Benefits of Cooking Salmon in the Microwave
Here are some of the biggest advantages of choosing the microwave to cook your salmon:
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It’s Fast – Salmon fillets can be done in just 5-10 minutes in the microwave. Much faster than grilling, baking or pan-searing.
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Retains Moisture – The microwave steams and poaches the salmon, helping it stay tender and juicy. No more dry, overcooked fish!
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Adds Flavor Easily – You can season salmon before microwaving for added flavor. Soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, lemon – the options are endless.
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Minimal Cleanup – With microwave cooking, you skip dirtying pans and trays. Just a plate or bowl to wash up after.
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Healthy – No need for added oils or butter. Salmon cooked in the microwave retains its natural omega-3 fatty acids and nutrients.
It’s easy to see why the microwave can be your new secret weapon for quick and delicious salmon dinners!
How Long Should You Microwave Salmon?
The cooking time for microwave salmon depends on a few factors:
- Thickness of the fillets
- Number of fillets
- Power/wattage of your microwave
Here are some general microwave salmon cooking times to follow:
- 1/2 inch thick fillet – cook for 2-3 minutes
- 1 inch thick fillet – cook for 3-5 minutes
- 1.5 inch thick fillet – cook for 5-7 minutes
For best results, check doneness frequently and microwave in short 1 minute intervals until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Err on the side of undercooking slightly, as the fish will continue cooking once removed from the microwave.
Now let’s look at a simple step-by-step guide to microwave salmon success!
Step-by-Step Guide to Microwaving Salmon
Follow these easy steps for foolproof microwave salmon every time:
1. Choose Fresh Salmon Fillets
Look for thick, center-cut salmon fillets without skin for even cooking. Wild-caught or sustainably farmed salmon work equally well.
2. Pat Salmon Dry and Season
Pat the fillets dry with a paper towel and brush lightly with oil if desired. Season simply with salt, pepper, garlic powder, herbs or citrus zest.
3. Arrange in Microwave-Safe Dish
Place fillets in a microwave-safe dish large enough to hold them in a single layer. Glass baking dishes or pie plates work well.
4. Cover and Microwave
Cover the dish loosely with a lid or vented plastic wrap. Microwave on high for time based on thickness. Start with 2 minutes for thin fillets.
5. Check Doneness
Check doneness by pressing fillet gently with fork. It should flake and be opaque throughout. Cook longer if needed.
6. Let Stand and Serve
Let salmon stand 2 minutes before serving. Flake with a fork and serve with favorite veggies or grains. Enjoy!
That’s really all there is to it. With these easy steps, you’ll be enjoying tender salmon dinners from your microwave in no time!
Creative Microwave Salmon Recipe Ideas
Part of the fun of microwave salmon is experimenting with different seasonings and sauces. Here are some of my favorite ways to dress up basic microwave salmon:
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Lemon Pepper Salmon – Top with melted butter and lemon pepper seasoning
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Teriyaki Salmon – Brush with teriyaki sauce before cooking
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Honey Dijon Salmon – Mix Dijon, honey and oregano for easy glaze
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Sesame Ginger Salmon – Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and green onions
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Cajun Salmon – Sprinkle on Cajun seasoning blend before microwaving
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Lemon Herb Salmon – Squeeze fresh lemon juice and add dried basil or dill
Let your imagination run wild with seasoning combos and sauces! The microwave handles strong flavors incredibly well.
Expert Tips for the Best Microwave Salmon
Take your microwave salmon from good to great with these handy tips:
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Use thick, evenly sized fillets for most even cooking.
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Brush fillets with oil for added moisture and flavor. Olive or avocado oil work well.
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Cook similar sized fillets together so they finish at the same time.
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Microwave in 30 second intervals to prevent overcooking.
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Always use a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely.
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Let salmon rest 2 minutes before flaking gently with a fork to serve.
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Add fresh lemon, herbs, or sauce after cooking for bonus flavor.
With practice, you’ll be an expert at microwave salmon in no time!
FAQs About Cooking Salmon in the Microwave
Here are answers to some common questions about making this speedy salmon dish:
Is it safe to microwave raw salmon?
Yes, microwaving raw salmon is completely safe. The FDA recommends cooking fish to an internal temperature of 145°F to destroy bacteria and parasites. Salmon should easily reach this temp during microwave cooking.
Does microwave salmon smell bad?
It shouldn’t! Be sure to use very fresh salmon. Covering the dish prevents odors from spreading. Quick cook times also help. Any mild smell should disappear shortly after removing the cooked fish.
Can you microwave frozen salmon?
Microwaving frozen salmon is not recommended, as it may cook unevenly. Always thaw salmon first by refrigerating overnight or letting sit 20-30 minutes in cool water. Pat dry before seasoning and cooking.
What if my microwave salmon is undercooked?
No problem! Pop it back in the microwave and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute longer until the center is opaque and flakes easily. Checking temperature with an instant-read thermometer is the best test.
What are the best microwave Salmon recipes?
Some of my favorites are Lemon Pepper Salmon, Honey Dijon Salmon, and Sesame Ginger Salmon. But any oil, seasoning, herbs, spices or sauces can infuse the salmon with great flavor. Get creative!
Now you know everything you need to start enjoying fast, healthy microwave salmon any night of the week. This speedy cooking method lets you get a nutritious meal on the table in just minutes.
