I absolutely love cooking seafood, especially salmon. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. I’ve tried various cooking methods for salmon, but recently I discovered a quick and easy way to steam it in the microwave. Yes, you read that right – the microwave! It might sound unconventional, but trust me, it works like a charm. So, today, I’m going to share with you my tried and tested method on how to steam salmon in the microwave. Let’s get started!
Gather Your Ingredients and Tools
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s make sure we have everything we need. Here’s what you’ll require to steam salmon in the microwave:
– Fresh salmon fillets
– Lemon slices
– Fresh dill or your preferred herbs
– Salt and pepper for seasoning
– Microwave-safe dish with a lid
Once you have these ingredients and tools ready, you’re all set to begin.
Prepare the Salmon Fillets
Start by rinsing the salmon fillets under cold water to remove any impurities. Pat them dry with a paper towel and place them on a clean plate.
Season the Salmon
Now it’s time to season the salmon. Sprinkle some salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides of each fillet. Don’t be shy with the seasoning because it will enhance the flavor of the fish.
Add Lemon and Herbs
Take a few lemon slices and place them on top of the salmon fillets. The citrusy flavor of the lemon will infuse into the fish as it steams. Next, sprinkle some fresh dill or your preferred herbs over the fillets. This will add a delightful aroma to the salmon.
Choose the Right Dish and Cover It
It’s crucial to use a microwave-safe dish with a lid for steaming salmon in the microwave. If the dish is not covered, the steam will escape, resulting in dry fish. If you don’t have a suitable dish, you can use microwave-safe plastic wrap to cover the salmon.
Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the dish, arranging them side by side. Make sure they don’t overlap, as you want each fillet to cook evenly.
Microwave Cooking Process
Now comes the exciting part – cooking the salmon in the microwave!
Step 1: Cover and Microwave on High
Cover the dish with the lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent to let the steam escape. It’s essential to cover the salmon properly to prevent splattering and maintain moisture. Microwave the salmon on high for about 3-4 minutes per ½ inch thickness of the fillet. For example, if your salmon is 1 inch thick, microwave it for 6-8 minutes.
Step 2: Check for Doneness
Carefully remove the dish from the microwave, keeping in mind that it will be hot. Using a fork, gently flake the salmon to check if it is done. The flesh should be opaque and easily separable. If it appears translucent or requires more time, return it to the microwave for another 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Step 3: Rest and Serve
Once the salmon is cooked to perfection, let it rest for a couple of minutes in the covered dish. This allows for residual cooking and ensures the flavors settle in. Afterward, it’s time to serve!
Enjoy Your Steamed Salmon
Serve your delicious steamed salmon with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Drizzle it with a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor. The result is moist, tender salmon with a lovely citrus and herb-infused taste.
Simple and Healthy Cooking
Steaming salmon in the microwave is not only quick and easy but also a healthy cooking method. By steaming, you preserve the natural flavors and nutrients while minimizing the use of oil or butter. It’s a fantastic way to prepare salmon when you’re short on time but still want a nutritious and mouthwatering meal.
So, the next time you’re craving a tasty piece of salmon, give this microwave steaming method a try. You’ll be amazed at how delicious and effortless it is. Bon appétit!