Create a simple spice rub by combining brown sugar, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. For easy cleanup, line a baking sheet with foil. Place the salmon fillet on the sheet, pink side up, skin side down. Brush the salmon with olive oil and the spice mixture. Bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to avoid overcooking.
Now, the critical part – determining when your salmon is perfectly done:
- Know Your Preference: Figure out your preferred level of doneness. Whether you like it well-done, rare, or medium, understanding your preference is crucial.
- Check the Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to check the thickest part of the fillet. Medium-rare falls between 115°F to 125°F, while medium to well-done ranges from 125°F to 140°F. Consider 140°F as the maximum. If it hits that mark, your salmon is ready to be savored!
- Poke with a Fork: If you’re comfortable, gently poke the salmon with a fork. As you gain experience, you’ll develop a feel for doneness. You should be able to flake the salmon with a fork, ensuring it’s cooked to your liking. While not as precise as a thermometer, it works if you’re in a pinch.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Like any skill, practice improves your salmon-cooking prowess. Enjoy the tasty journey of perfecting your salmon game!
In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a mouthwatering salmon dish cooked to perfection. Try whipping this up in your home and see how it turns out.
Image/Source: ModernProper
