Get ready to savor the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of Cast Iron Salmon with this simple and delicious recipe! Cooked to perfection in a sizzling hot cast iron skillet, this salmon boasts a crispy seared exterior that gives way to tender, flaky flesh. In just a matter of minutes, you'll have a stunning dish that's bursting with flavor and sure to impress your family and friends.
Today we're diving into the world of seafood with a mouthwatering dish that will make your weeknight dinners extra special: Cast Iron Salmon.
This easy-to-follow recipe combines simplicity with incredible flavor.
Get ready to indulge in the sublime flavors of perfectly cooked salmon, elevated by the magic of cast iron cooking. Let's dive in and make this meal a memorable one!
Ingredients
- Salmon Filets: Look for wild salmon for a richer taste and firmer texture for this cast iron salmon recipe.
- Italian Seasoning: I keep this seasoning blend in my spice rack. If you don’t have it, consider using a mix of dried oregano, thyme, basil, and rosemary for a homemade seasoning blend that complements the fish beautifully.
- Garlic Powder: If you don't have garlic powder on hand, you can substitute it with fresh minced garlic. Just keep in mind that the intensity of the garlic flavor may vary, so adjust accordingly to your liking.
- Sea Salt: If you prefer, you can substitute sea salt with kosher salt or any other type of salt you have available.
- Black Pepper: If you don't have whole peppercorns and a grinder, pre-ground black pepper will work just fine.
- Avocado Oil: If you don't have avocado oil, you can substitute it with other high smoke point oils such as vegetable oil or grapeseed oil. You could use olive oil or butter if you like - just be mindful of the smoke point.
Step by Step Instructions
For the full cast iron skillet salmon recipe with measurements, see the recipe card at the end of the post.
Carefully turn over the salmon fillets and let them cook for about 1 more minute. We're looking for an internal temperature of around 120°F for medium-rare. A handy instant-read thermometer will come in handy here.
Once the salmon reaches that perfect temperature, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Tips and Tricks
- Preheat the cast iron skillet properly: Before you start cooking, make sure your cast iron skillet is properly preheated. This will ensure that the salmon gets that perfect sear. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat for a few minutes before adding the oil and salmon.
- Dry the salmon thoroughly: To achieve a crispy crust in your cast iron pan salmon, it's important to pat the salmon dry with paper towels before seasoning. This removes excess moisture, allowing for better browning and caramelization.
- Use a fish spatula for flipping: When it's time to flip the salmon, a fish spatula is your best friend. Its thin, flexible edge allows for easy maneuvering without damaging the delicate flesh of the fish.
- Aim for medium-rare: For a tender and juicy texture, aim for a medium-rare doneness when cooking salmon. The internal temperature should reach around 120°F. Remember, the salmon will continue cooking slightly once removed from heat, so keep that in mind.
- Let it rest: After cooking, resist the temptation to dig right into the salmon. Allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and succulent bite.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 days. They are excellent in salad!
FAQs
Can you cook salmon in cast iron?
Yes, you can absolutely cook salmon in a cast iron skillet. In fact, pan-seared salmon in cast iron is one of my favorite ways to cook it.
The key to achieving perfectly cooked, flaky salmon is medium-high heat and proper seasoning. The cooking process for salmon is fairly quick, so keep that in mind when planning the rest of your meal.
How do you keep fish from sticking to cast iron?
The best way to prevent sticking is to ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the fish.
Once it's time to add the fish, pour in a few tablespoons of oil and let it heat up for a minute or two. Then, carefully place the fillets into the pan - this will help create that beautiful sear we aim for.
Finally, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the fish cook through. If your skillet is properly preheated, you should have little to no sticking issues. If you go to flip the fish and it isn’t lifting properly, give it a minute or two and try again. Chances are, it just isn’t ready to flip.
Tools
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More Skillet Recipes to Try
- Skillet Balsamic Green Beans: A tangy twist on a classic side dish, these skillet balsamic green beans are a perfect accompaniment to any meal, adding a burst of flavor and vibrant color to your plate.
- Skillet Roasted Garlic Sausage Pasta: This one-pot wonder brings together the rich flavors of roasted garlic, savory sausage, and al dente pasta, creating a hearty and satisfying meal that will have your family begging for seconds.
- Cast Iron Cornbread: Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food with this cast iron cornbread recipe. The crispy edges, tender crumb, and delightful hint of sweetness make it the perfect sidekick to soups, stews, or enjoyed on its own.
- Skillet Ground Beef Breakfast Sausage: Start your day off right with this homemade skillet ground beef breakfast sausage. Packed with savory flavor and a hint of spices, it's a delicious alternative to store-bought sausages that will elevate your breakfast game.
20-Minute Cast Iron Salmon
Equipment
- cast iron skillet
Ingredients
- 24 ounces salmon filets skin-on
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
Instructions
- Press the salmon between paper towels to dry thoroughly. In a small bowl, stir together the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Season both sides of the salmon with the seasoning blend and allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, or proceed with the recipe immediately.
- Heat the oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the fillets, skin side down.
- Reduce heat to medium-low immediately. Press down with a fish spatula for 1 minute, and continue cooking for about 5 more minutes.
- Flip, and cook for about 1 minute longer, until an instant-read thermometer registers 120° F for medium-rare.
- Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
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