Name: 5-Star King Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 king salmon fillets (about 6 oz each); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp sea salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 lemon (sliced for garnish); Fresh dill or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

The Ultimate King Salmon Recipe: A Chef’s Secret to Flaky, Flavorful Fish

If you’re a seafood lover, you know there’s nothing quite like a perfectly cooked piece of king salmon. Its rich, buttery flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture make it a favorite for special occasions and weeknight dinners alike. But here’s the thing: cooking salmon can be tricky. Overcook it, and it turns dry; undercook it, and it’s not safe to eat.

That’s where this 5-star king salmon recipe comes in. I’m here to guide you step-by-step to create a dish that’s restaurant-quality but easy enough for anyone to make at home. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will become your go-to for impressing guests or treating yourself.

Why You’ll Love This King Salmon Recipe

Perfectly cooked every time: Say goodbye to dry, overcooked salmon.
Simple ingredients: No fancy tools or hard-to-find items.
Versatile: Pair it with your favorite sides or enjoy it on its own.
Healthy and delicious: Packed with omega-3s and flavor.

What Makes King Salmon Special?

King salmon, also known as Chinook salmon, is the largest and most prized species of Pacific salmon. Its high fat content gives it a luxurious, buttery texture and rich flavor that sets it apart from other types of salmon. It’s perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing, making it a versatile choice for any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this 5-star king salmon recipe:

2 king salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sea salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 lemon (sliced for garnish)
Fresh dill or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Equipment Needed

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

In a small bowl, mix the sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil, then generously season both sides with the spice mix.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Place the seasoned salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and dill or parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Success

Don’t overcook: Salmon cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid drying it out.
Use fresh salmon: Fresh fillets have the best flavor and texture.
Experiment with flavors: Try adding a honey glaze or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your king salmon with:

Garlic Butter Shrimp (check out our garlic butter shrimp recipe)
Glazed Green Beans (try our glazed green beans recipe)
A refreshing glass of Horchata Drink Mix

Why This Recipe Works

This 5-star king salmon recipe is designed to be foolproof. The combination of simple spices and precise cooking times ensures that your salmon turns out perfectly every time. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with almost any side dish, making it a great addition to your recipe collection.