how long to bake fish
The baking time for fish depends on several factors, including the type of fish, its thickness, and the desired level of doneness. Here are some general guidelines for baking fish:
General Guidelines:
- Thin fish fillets (less than 1 inch thick): 8-12 minutes at 400°F (200°C)
- Medium-thick fish fillets (1-1.5 inches thick): 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C)
- Thick fish fillets (1.5-2 inches thick): 15-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C)
- Whole fish (1-2 pounds): 20-30 minutes at 400°F (200°C)
Specific Fish Types:
- Salmon: 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C)
- Cod: 10-12 minutes at 400°F (200°C)
- Tilapia: 8-10 minutes at 400°F (200°C)
- Trout: 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C)
- Halibut: 15-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C)
How to Check for Doneness:
- Use a meat thermometer: Fish is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Check for flakiness: Fish is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork.
- Check for opacity: Fish is cooked when it becomes opaque and no longer translucent.
Tips:
- Preheat your oven to the desired temperature.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking.
- Place the fish on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, and season with salt, pepper, and herbs (optional).
- Bake for the recommended time, or until the fish is cooked through.
Remember, the key to perfectly baked fish is to not overcook it. Fish can quickly become dry and tough if overcooked, so keep an eye on it and adjust the cooking time as needed.
