how long to bake whole salmon fillet

To bake a whole salmon fillet, follow these organized steps for a perfectly cooked dish:

1. Preparation:

   • Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Prepare Salmon: Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear and seasonings adhesion.

2. Seasoning and Setup:

   • Season: Sprinkle the salmon with salt, pepper, herbs, and a squeeze of lemon juice for flavor.
   • Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Place the salmon skin side down if the skin is on.

3. Baking:

   • Additions: Drizzle with olive oil or place butter slices on top, and add lemon slices for extra flavor and moisture.
   • Cooking Time: Bake for 12-20 minutes, adjusting based on thickness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for food safety.
   • Optional Browning: For a crispy finish, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.

4. Post-Baking:

   • Resting: Let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

5. Tips:

   • Thermometer Use: Ensure the salmon reaches 145°F for safety, though some prefer medium-rare at 120°F-130°F.
   • Even Cooking: Let the salmon come to room temperature before baking for even cooking.

Enjoy your perfectly baked, flavorful salmon fillet!