The Best Way to Cook Salmon (My 5 Go-To Salmon Cooking Methods)

I’ve always loved cooking salmon because it’s one of those meals that feels both fancy and simple at the same time. The funny thing is, everyone seems to have their own “best way” of making it — some people swear by grilling, while others won’t eat it unless it’s baked.

For me, it really depends on what I’m craving and how much time I have. That’s why I’ve collected a few go-to methods that never disappoint.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through my five favorite ways to cook salmon so you can find the one that fits your taste (and mood) best!

What’s the Best Way to Cook Salmon?

When it comes to salmon, baking is often the most popular choice for home cooks. It’s easy, hands-off, and gives you tender, flavorful results without much effort. But the truth is, there’s no single “best” way to cook salmon — it all depends on what you like most. Some people love crispy skin, while others prefer a smoky grilled taste or something light and delicate.

That’s why I want to share my five go-to salmon cooking methods. Each one brings out a different side of this delicious fish, so you can pick the style that fits you (or even try them all!).

Pan-Seared Salmon for Crispy Skin

If you love crispy skin with a golden crunch, pan-searing is the way to go. This method is especially great when you want a quick dinner that still feels a little fancy. Cooking salmon in a hot pan not only locks in the flavor but also gives you that satisfying texture you can bite into, while keeping the inside moist and flaky.

How to pan sear salmon:

1. Heat a little oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
2. Place the salmon skin-side down and press gently so it lays flat.
3. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the skin is crispy.
4. Flip and cook the other side for 2–3 minutes until done.

Related: How to Pan Sear Salmon

Oven-Baked Salmon for Tender and Buttery Results

Baking salmon in the oven makes it soft, juicy, and full of flavor. It’s a favorite for busy nights since you just pop it in and let the oven do the work. Plus, it’s a low-fat cooking method that preserves the omega-3 fatty acids and natural juices.

How to bake salmon in the oven:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil (or butter).
4. Bake for 12–15 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Related: How to Cook Salmon in the Oven

Grilled Salmon for Smoky Flavor

Grilling adds a smoky, slightly charred taste that feels perfect for summer cookouts. The high heat gives the salmon a firm texture with lots of flavor.  You can marinate it, brush with sauces, or season simply with salt, pepper, and herbs — grill marks add extra appeal.

How to grill salmon:

1. Preheat the grill and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
2. Brush salmon with oil and season as you like. (You can also use marinades or sauces, but apply sugary sauces near the end to avoid burning.)
3. Place skin-side down and grill for 6–8 minutes.
4. Flip and cook another 2–4 minutes, depending on thickness.
5. Let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes off the grill so the juices redistribute.

Poached Salmon for a Delicate Texture

Poaching gently cooks salmon in water or broth, keeping it moist, soft, and almost melt-in-your-mouth delicate. It’s one of my favorite ways to enjoy salmon when I want something light, comforting, and fuss-free — perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.

How to poach salmon: 

1. Fill a pan with enough water or broth to cover the salmon.
2. Add flavorings you love — lemon slices, garlic, fresh herbs, or a splash of white wine.
3. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer (never a full boil).
4. Add the salmon and cook for 10–12 minutes until it’s opaque and tender.
5. Carefully remove and serve — sometimes I drizzle a little olive oil or a squeeze of lemon for a simple, fresh finish.

Related: How I Make Perfect Poached Salmon at Home

Air-Fried Salmon

For those nights when time is short but you still want a delicious, home-cooked meal, the air fryer is a lifesaver. It cooks salmon quickly, giving it a lightly crispy outside and a soft, buttery inside. I can toss together a side salad while it cooks and have a complete meal in under 20 minutes.

How to air fry salmon:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat salmon dry and season with your favorite spices.
3. Place in the air fryer basket, skin-side down.
4. Cook for 7–10 minutes until the salmon flakes easily.

Related: How to Cook Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer

Summary

No matter which cooking method you choose, salmon is a versatile fish that can fit almost any mood, meal, or skill level in the kitchen. The best part is that experimenting with these techniques helps you discover your favorite — and even mixing it up can make weeknight dinners feel exciting again.

To make the most of your salmon experience, I recommend trying high-quality options like our Wild Sockeye Salmon or Wild King Salmon!

FAQs

What’s the best method to cook salmon?

There isn’t a single “best” method — it depends on your taste and time. Pan-searing gives crispy skin, baking keeps it tender, grilling adds smoky flavor, poaching is delicate and soft, and air-frying is fast and convenient.

What’s the healthiest way to cook salmon?

Healthiest methods include baking, poaching, or air-frying because they use minimal added fat and help retain omega-3 fatty acids. Grilling and pan-searing are healthy too if you use small amounts of oil.

What’s the easiest way to cook salmon?

Oven-baking and air-frying are usually the easiest, since you can set the temperature and time, then let the salmon cook without much hands-on attention.