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Simple Cast Iron Salmon Recipe

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4.1 from 76 reviews

This Simple Cast Iron Salmon recipe delivers perfectly crispy skin and tender, flaky fish using an easy stovetop method. Seasoned with Italian herbs, lemon, and basic pantry staples, it’s a straightforward yet flavorful dish that can elevate any weeknight dinner.

  • Total Time: 12 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings

Ingredients

Salmon

  • 3 – 8 oz salmon fillets with skin

Seasonings

  • 2 Tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon
  • 2 Tablespoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

  1. Bring Salmon to Room Temperature: Remove the salmon fillets from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This helps the fish cook evenly in the pan.
  2. Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season all sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
  3. Prepare the Skillet: Coat a cast iron skillet well with olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering but not smoking. This ensures a hot surface for crisping the skin.
  4. Add Salmon Skin Side Down: Place the salmon fillets skin side down in the skillet. Immediately reduce the heat to medium-low. Sprinkle the tops with Italian seasoning and add a squirt of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
  5. Cook Skin Side Down: Let the salmon cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes, or until the skin becomes crispy and golden. If the fillets start to buckle, gently press down with a fish spatula to keep even contact with the pan.
  6. Flip the Fillets: When the skin releases easily and you see the sides change from translucent pink to an opaque lighter color, carefully flip the salmon to cook the other side.
  7. Finish Cooking: Cook the flipped side for about 1 minute more. Use a thermometer to check doneness: 120°F for medium-rare or between 125°F to 130°F for medium doneness. Remove from heat once desired temperature is reached.

Notes

  • Allowing the salmon to come to room temperature prevents uneven cooking.
  • Patting the fish dry is essential for crispy skin.
  • Use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet for best results and even heat distribution.
  • Pressing the fish gently during cooking helps maintain flat fillets and a crispy crust.
  • Adjust cooking times based on thickness of fillets and desired doneness.
  • Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges for added brightness.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/simple-cast-iron-salmon-recipe/