Salmon · Pan-Searing

Pan-Searing Salmon

Timing, temperature, and the cues that decide doneness for salmon.

10min
Cook Time
Medium-High
Pan Temperature
300-350°F / 150-175°C
0.4 lb / 6 oz / 170 g
Portion Weight
Per adult serving
125-145°F / 50-65°C
Internal Temperature
Medium Rare to Well Done

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1Pat salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels
  2. 2Season both sides with salt and pepper
  3. 3Heat oil in pan over medium-high heat until shimmering
  4. 4Place salmon skin-side down, press gently for 30 seconds
  5. 5Cook 4 minutes without moving - skin should be crispy
  6. 6Flip carefully and cook 3 minutes more
  7. 7Check internal temperature reaches 125-145°F / 50-65°C (medium rare to well done)
  8. 8Serve immediately

Expert Tips for Pan-Searing

  • Skin should be crispy and golden
  • Fish should flake easily but still be moist
  • Don't move the fish while skin is crisping
  • Perfect for serving with lemon and herbs

Salmon Temperature Guide

DonenessTemperatureDescription
Medium Rare125°F / 50°CTranslucent center, firm texture
Medium130°F / 55°CSlightly translucent center, moist and flaky
Medium Well140°F / 60°COpaque with hint of pink, still moist
Well Done145°F / 65°COpaque throughout, flakes easily

Salmon Safety Guidelines

Important food safety practices when handling and cooking salmon.

Cook to proper internal temperature

Use food thermometer

Remember

When in doubt, use a food thermometer. It's the only reliable way to ensure your salmon is safely cooked and delicious.

Other Ways to Cook Salmon

Baking

Baking Salmon

Cook Time
15min
Oven Temperature
400°F / 205°C
Internal Temperature
120-150°F / 50-65°C
Medium Rare to Well Done
Read the guide

Air Frying

Air Frying Salmon

Cook Time
10min
Air Fryer Temperature
390°F / 200°C
Internal Temperature
120-150°F / 50-65°C
Medium Rare to Well Done
Read the guide

Steaming

Steaming Salmon

Cook Time
10min
Steam Temperature
210°F / 100°C
Internal Temperature
120-150°F / 50-65°C
Medium Rare to Well Done
Read the guide

Grilling

Grilling Salmon

Cook Time
10min
Grill Temperature
Medium-High
400-450°F / 204-232°C
Internal Temperature
120-150°F / 50-65°C
Medium Rare to Well Done
Read the guide

Sous-vide

Sous-vide Salmon

Cook Time
1h
Cooking Temperature
125°F / 50°C
Internal Temperature
120-150°F / 50-65°C
Medium Rare to Well Done
Read the guide

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