Meat & Fish
How to cook salmon
Simple guide to cooking salmon in the oven, pan or air fryer, with timing tips, serving ideas and common mistakes to avoid.
At a glance
Quick answer
A typical salmon fillet takes roughly 12–15 minutes at 200°C/180°C fan, 8–12 minutes in an air fryer at 190°C, or 7–10 minutes in a pan. It should flake easily and be opaque through the thickest part.
Oven method
Place fillets skin-side down in a lightly oiled dish. Season and bake until the centre is just opaque and separates into moist flakes.
Pan method
Pat the skin dry. Cook skin-side down in a lightly oiled pan over medium heat, pressing gently for the first 20 seconds. Turn for the final few minutes.
Air fryer method
Brush lightly with oil and arrange skin-side down with space around each fillet. Check early if the pieces are thin.
How to know salmon is done
Press the thickest part gently: the flakes should separate and the centre should no longer look raw. The Food Standards Agency advises cooking fish thoroughly until steaming hot throughout.
What to serve with salmon
Rice, boiled new potatoes, broccoli and green beans all work well. For two, roast vegetables on a tray and add the salmon only for the final part of cooking.
Common mistakes
Overcooking dries the narrow end. Choose similarly sized fillets, check early and rest briefly. Do not reuse utensils or plates that touched raw fish.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does salmon take in the oven?
A typical fillet takes around 12–15 minutes at 200°C/180°C fan, depending on thickness.
Can I cook salmon with the skin on?
Yes. Cook skin-side down; it protects the flesh and can become crisp in a pan.