Broil Salmon

Broiling salmon is one of the quickest ways to cook this delicious and heart-healthy fish. Broiling gives the fish a crisp, caramelized crust.

Steps

Set up the oven rack so the rack is 7” to 8” (18 to 20 centimeters) from the broiler. In electric ovens, the broiler is located on top. Broilers with gas ovens are normally on top or in a drawer beneath the oven.
Place your broiler pan inside your oven and preheat your broiler.
Place a long strip of aluminum foil on your countertop and spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
Place your salmon on top of the foil with the skin side down and the pink flesh facing up.
Drizzle 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) of olive oil on top of the salmon. Use your fingers to rub the oil into the flesh.
Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon (3 grams) of salt and 1/2 teaspoon (3 grams) of freshly ground black pepper on top of your salmon fillet.
Open the oven and extend the rack that is holding the broiler pan. Make sure that you are wearing oven mitts because the broiler will be hot.
Grasp the sheet of aluminum foil in both hands and place the foil and the salmon on top of the broiler pan. The hot broiler pan will ensure the salmon cooks evenly on both sides.
Broil the salmon for 10 to 15 minutes. Check the fish every two minutes to ensure that it isn’t burning.
Remove the salmon from the oven and place the pan on your range top or on a counter top protected with hot pads. Allow the fish to rest for a few minutes to redistribute the juices.
Serve the salmon fillet on a plate with a wedge of lemon.

Choose salmon at the market that has bright, pinkish flesh. Never choose salmon that has a strong, “fishy” smell.
Cover salmon with honey or syrup during the last 2 minutes of broiling to create a sweet glaze.
Substitute white pepper for the freshly ground black pepper for a slightly different flavor.
For a variation, cover the salmon with apricot preserves after you season it with the salt and pepper. Broiling the salmon with the preserves on top will make a quick and delicious glaze.

Wash your hands after touching raw salmon.
Salmon may contain trace amounts of mercury, which could be dangerous for a developing fetus. If you are pregnant, then speak to your obstetrician about consuming salmon or other fatty fish.