how long does salmon take to bake

The baking time for salmon can vary depending on several factors, including the thickness of the fish, the temperature of the oven, and the level of doneness desired. Here are some general guidelines for baking salmon:

Baking Time for Salmon:

• Thin salmon fillets (less than 1 inch thick): 8-12 minutes at 400°F (200°C)
• Medium-thick salmon fillets (1-1.5 inches thick): 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C)
• Thick salmon fillets (1.5-2 inches thick): 15-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C)

Internal Temperature:

• Cooked salmon should reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) to ensure food safety.

Tips:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before baking the salmon.
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent the salmon from sticking.
• Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin side down (if they have skin).
• Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, and your choice of seasonings.
• Bake for the recommended time, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Additional Factors:

• If you’re baking salmon with a glaze or sauce, you may need to adjust the baking time to prevent overcooking.
• If you’re baking salmon from frozen, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Remember, the key to perfectly baked salmon is to cook it until it’s just done, but still moist and flaky. Overcooking can make the salmon dry and tough.