Crispy-skinned salmon

Crispy-skinned salmon is a simple yet elegant dish featuring tender salmon with a crunchy skin, seasoned with just salt and olive oil. This quick recipe is perfect for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

03 Dec 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1.50 lb salmon
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt

Crispy-skinned salmon is a delightful dish that offers a perfect blend of flavorful, tender fish with a satisfyingly crunchy skin. This simple and quick recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy salmon, providing both a rich taste and a pleasing texture. With just a few ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salmon:
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy skin.

2. Season the Salmon:
- Sprinkle salt evenly over the flesh side of the salmon. Ensure it reaches all parts of the fillet for consistent seasoning.

3. Heat the Pan:
- Place a large, non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the skillet to heat up for about 2 minutes until it’s very hot.

4. Add the Olive Oil:
- Pour the olive oil into the hot skillet. Swirl the pan to distribute the oil evenly, coating the entire cooking surface.

5. Cook the Salmon - Skin Side Down:
- Carefully place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin side down. Press down gently with a spatula for the first few seconds to ensure the skin makes full contact with the pan.
- Cook the salmon for 6-7 minutes without moving it. This will allow the skin to become crispy and golden brown.

6. Flip the Salmon:
- Once the skin is crispy and the flesh is about 75% cooked through, gently flip the salmon fillets using a spatula.
- Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through to your liking.

7. Check for Doneness:
- The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

8. Serve:
- Remove the salmon from the skillet and transfer it to a serving plate. Let it rest for a minute or two before serving.

Crispy-skinned salmon is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. By following these simple steps and utilizing a few key techniques, you can ensure that the salmon is cooked to perfection with a delectably crispy skin. Enjoy this restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home.

Crispy-skinned salmon FAQ:

What is the best cooking time for crispy-skinned salmon?

Cook the salmon skin side down for 6-7 minutes without moving it. After flipping, continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through to your liking.

How can I tell if the salmon is cooked properly?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). You can also check for doneness by looking for opaque, light pink flesh.

Can I use a different type of oil for cooking salmon?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil with other cooking oils such as avocado oil or vegetable oil, but these may impart different flavors. Choose oils with a high smoke point for best results.

What size pan should I use for cooking salmon?

A large non-stick or cast-iron skillet is recommended to ensure the salmon has enough space and to promote even cooking and crisping of the skin.

How should I store leftover salmon?

Store leftover cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven or a skillet to retain its texture.

Tips:

- Pat the salmon dry with paper towels before seasoning. Removing excess moisture helps achieve a crispy skin.

- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the salmon. A hot skillet allows the skin to crisp up properly.

- Avoid moving the salmon in the pan. Let it cook undisturbed on the skin side for the recommended time to prevent tearing and ensure even crisping.

- Use a fish spatula to carefully flip the salmon. This spatula is thinner and more flexible than regular spatulas, helping to keep the fillet intact.

- Finish cooking the salmon in a preheated oven if the fillet is thick. This helps cook it evenly without burning the skin.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 220kcal
Protein 36g
Carbohydrates 0.00g
Fiber 0.00g
Sugar 0.00g
Fat 14g

Crispy-skinned salmon