Broiled Salmon: A Simple, Healthy, and Delicious Recipe
Are you looking for a quick, easy, and healthy weeknight dinner? Look no further than this broiled salmon recipe! Broiling salmon is a fantastic way to achieve perfectly cooked, flaky salmon with a slightly crispy skin in minutes. This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, offering a delicious and nutritious meal that's packed with flavor.
Why Broil Salmon?
Broiling is a dry-heat cooking method that uses intense heat from above. This method is ideal for salmon because it cooks the fish quickly and evenly, resulting in a moist and tender interior and a crisp, flavorful skin. Unlike other cooking methods, broiling requires minimal cleanup, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1-1.5 lbs salmon fillet, skin on or off (your preference!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Lemon wedges, fresh dill, garlic powder, paprika, or other herbs and spices to your liking.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Salmon:
- Preheat your broiler: Make sure your oven rack is positioned about 6 inches from the heating element.
- Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a crispy skin.
- Season generously: Drizzle the olive oil over the salmon and season with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices.
Broiling the Salmon:
- Place the salmon on a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Broil for 4-8 minutes: Broil time depends on the thickness of your fillet and your broiler's intensity. Start checking for doneness at the 4-minute mark.
- Check for doneness: The salmon is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Do not overcook! Overcooked salmon will be dry and tough.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your perfectly broiled salmon immediately with your favorite sides. Some delicious pairings include:
- Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts – any roasted vegetable will complement the salmon beautifully.
- Simple salad: A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds freshness to the meal.
- Quinoa or rice: A healthy grain adds a satisfying element to your meal.
- Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors of the salmon.
Tips for Perfect Broiled Salmon:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Give the salmon enough space to cook evenly.
- Keep an eye on it: Broilers can cook quickly, so it's crucial to monitor the salmon closely to prevent overcooking.
- Adjust broiling time: Thicker fillets will require longer broiling times.
- Experiment with flavors: Get creative with your herbs and spices!
This broiled salmon recipe is a fantastic starting point for creating a healthy and delicious meal. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy restaurant-quality salmon at home in minutes. Enjoy!
