How I Like to Prepare Fresh Salmon

I get asked all the time by clients how I like to prepare salmon. So, in this article, I will put together a few ways I like to cook the salmon I catch. These aren’t necessarily in any order.

One way I like to prepare salmon filets (with the skin left on) is on my Traeger grill. I start by coating the fish with butter and then sprinkling it with garlic pepper and adding a light coating of Johnny’s seasoning. Then I spread honey all over the filet.

I set my Traeger grill to 350 degrees. Lay the salmon skin side down right on the grill. Typically, it will take about 20 to 30 minutes to cook salmon on the grill.

Another way I like to prepare salmon is pan frying. Here is one way quick and easy to prepare your salmon for this method.

First, bring the salmon to room temperature before you start cooking it. About 10 minutes is often enough.

I like to season my salmon lightly with salt, pepper and garlic. Then I use a nonstick skillet pan and heat the oil on medium-low heat, then bring heat to medium-high right before you place the filet skin-side-up in the pan.

You need to cook it until it’s golden brown on one side. Usually, this takes about four to five minutes. After it’s golden brown, flip it over to cook until it feels firm to the touch, usually around 3 to 4 minutes.

You can serve with the skin on, or you can easily remove the skin from the cooked filet with a knife or spoon. Transfer to a plate and enjoy with your favorite side dishes.

Baking is another great way to cook salmon. Here is one easy recipe I like to do.

In a small bowl, mix together olive oil and lemon juice with some garlic. And I even like to add some fresh herbs.

You’re not going to marinate this salmon. You’re going to brush the marinade all over the filet lightly.

Set on bake at 400 degrees. Bake the salmon until it gets flaky, about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish. Now enjoy this fish with some of your favorite side dishes, like rice or potatoes.

When you book your salmon fishing trip with Marvin’s Guide Service, he will be happy to share more recipes and techniques he has for cooking and smoking salmon.

Please feel free in the comments to leave some of your favorite recipes to cook Columbia River salmon.