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Silver Salmon Recipe

This Silver Salmon Recipe features fresh, wild-caught silver salmon, also known as Coho salmon, perfectly seasoned and cooked to tender, flaky perfection. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared, this recipe brings out the natural richness of the fish with a simple yet flavorful combination of herbs, citrus, and butter. It's a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Seafood
Servings 4

Equipment

  • Baking sheet (for baking method)
  • Grill (for grilling method)
  • Cast-iron skillet (for pan-searing method)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Aluminum foil (optional, for grilling)

Ingredients
  

  • For the Salmon:
  • 2 lbs silver Coho salmon fillet (skin-on, fresh or thawed)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika optional
  • ½ tsp dried thyme or 1 tsp fresh thyme
  • ½ tsp dried dill or 1 tsp fresh dill
  • For Garnish & Serving:
  • 1 lemon sliced into wedges
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 tbsp capers optional

Instructions
 

  • Option 1: Baking Method
  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  • Prepare the salmon: Pat dry the fillet with paper towels. Place it skin-side down on the baking sheet.
  • Season: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and dill. Brush or rub this mixture evenly over the salmon.
  • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  • Broil (optional): For a slightly crisp top, broil for the last 2 minutes.
  • Serve with lemon wedges, fresh parsley, and capers if desired.
  • Option 2: Grilling Method
  • Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F / 190-200°C). Lightly oil the grates or use foil for easy cleanup.
  • Season the salmon as described above.
  • Grill skin-side down for 4-5 minutes. Carefully flip and grill for another 3-4 minutes, until cooked through.
  • Remove from heat, garnish, and serve immediately.
  • Option 3: Pan-Searing Method
  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with 1 tbsp olive oil.
  • Place salmon skin-side down and sear for 4-5 minutes. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  • Baste with extra butter or olive oil for more flavor.
  • Serve immediately with fresh herbs and lemon.

Notes

Doneness Check: Salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 125-130°F (52-54°C) for medium-rare or 140°F (60°C) for well-done.
Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm gently in a low oven (275°F / 135°C) for 10 minutes or microwave in short bursts.
Pairings: Serve with roasted vegetables, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Keyword silver salmon recipe, Coho salmon recipe, baked salmon, grilled salmon, pan-seared salmon, healthy salmon dish, easy salmon dinner, seafood recipe