Olivia Carter
Grilling salmon is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy this popular fish. If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can still achieve that smoky, charred flavor using your microwave oven. While it may not be the traditional method, microwaving salmon is a convenient and quick option that yields great results.
Here are the steps to grill salmon in a microwave oven:
Step 1: Start by preparing your salmon fillet. Season it with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. You can also brush it with olive oil to enhance the flavor and prevent sticking.
Step 2: Place the seasoned salmon fillet on a microwave-safe dish. Make sure the dish is large enough to accommodate the fillet without it touching the sides or overlapping.
Step 3: Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Leaving a small vent for steam to escape, place it in the microwave oven.
Step 4: Set the microwave oven to medium-high power or 70% power. Cook the salmon for about 3-4 minutes per inch of thickness. For example, if your salmon fillet is 1 inch thick, cook it for 3-4 minutes. If it is 1.5 inches thick, cook it for 4.5-6 minutes.
Step 5: Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the dish from the microwave oven. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If it is still translucent in the center, you can cook it for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Step 6: Let the grilled salmon rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful fillet.
Grilling salmon in a microwave oven is a quick, easy, and healthy way to enjoy this delicious fish. Experiment with different seasonings and sauces to customize the flavor to your liking. Serve it with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and nutritious meal.
Grilling Salmon in Microwave Oven: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Choose a fresh salmon fillet from your local fish market or grocery store. Look for fillets that are firm, shiny, and have a mild odor.
Step 2: Rinse the salmon fillet under cold running water to remove any scales or impurities. Pat it dry with a paper towel.
Step 3: Place the salmon fillet on a microwave-safe plate. Season it with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing citrus taste.
Step 4: Cover the plate with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. This will help to retain the moisture and prevent splattering in the microwave.
Step 5: Set the microwave oven to medium-high or high power level. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness and size of the salmon fillet.
Step 6: Microwave the salmon for 3 to 4 minutes per 1/2 inch of thickness. For example, if your salmon fillet is 1 inch thick, microwave it for 6 to 8 minutes. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when it is done.
Step 7: Carefully remove the plate from the microwave oven using oven mitts or a towel as it will be hot. Let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Step 8: Serve the grilled salmon with your favourite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy!
Note: Microwaving salmon is a quick and convenient way to grill it indoors, but it may not achieve the same smoky flavor and crispy texture as traditional grilling methods. However, it is a great alternative for those who may not have access to an outdoor grill.
Preparing the Salmon
Before grilling the salmon in the microwave oven, it is necessary to properly prepare the fish.
Step 1: Choose Fresh Salmon
When selecting salmon for grilling, it is important to choose fresh fish. Look for salmon with firm, glossy flesh and a mild, oceanic smell. Avoid any fish with a fishy or sour odor.
Step 2: Rinse and Pat Dry
Before grilling, rinse the salmon under cold water to remove any impurities. Gently pat dry using paper towels to ensure a better sear when grilling.
Step 3: Season the Salmon
Season the salmon with your desired flavors. Common seasonings for grilled salmon include salt, pepper, garlic powder, lemon juice, and herbs like dill or thyme. Rub the seasonings evenly onto both sides of the fish.
Note: If you prefer marinated salmon, you can prepare a marinade using ingredients such as soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic. Allow the salmon to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight before grilling.
Step 4: Let the Salmon Rest
Once seasoned, let the salmon rest for about 10 minutes at room temperature. This allows the flavors to penetrate the fish and ensures more even cooking.
Step 5: Place Salmon in a Microwave-Safe Dish
Transfer the seasoned salmon to a microwave-safe dish. Choose a dish that is large enough to accommodate the fish without crowding. It is important to choose a dish that can withstand high temperatures in the microwave.
Note: To prevent sticking, you can lightly grease the dish before placing the salmon.
Seasoning the Salmon
Before grilling the salmon, it’s important to season it properly to enhance its flavor. Here are a few seasoning options that you can try:
| 1. Lemon Pepper Seasoning | Sprinkle the salmon with a generous amount of lemon pepper seasoning. This will give it a tangy and zesty flavor. |
| 2. Garlic and Herb Seasoning | Rub the salmon with a mixture of minced garlic, dried herbs like thyme or dill, salt, and black pepper. This will add a savory and aromatic taste to the fish. |
| 3. Teriyaki Marinade | Marinate the salmon in a mixture of teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, ginger, and brown sugar. This will give it a sweet and savory Asian-inspired flavor. |
| 4. Cajun Seasoning | Coat the salmon with Cajun seasoning, which usually contains a blend of spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This will add a spicy kick to the fish. |
Once you’ve chosen the seasoning, make sure to evenly distribute it over the salmon. You can either sprinkle it directly on the fish or rub it in gently with your hands. Allow the salmon to sit with the seasoning for about 15-30 minutes to let the flavors penetrate the fish. After seasoning, your salmon is now ready to be grilled in the microwave oven.
Choosing the Right Microwave Oven
When it comes to grilling salmon in a microwave oven, choosing the right appliance can make a big difference in the final result. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a microwave oven for grilling salmon:
- Power level: Look for a microwave oven that offers a high power level, preferably above 1000 watts. This will ensure that the salmon is cooked evenly and quickly, avoiding any potential for undercooked or overcooked fish.
- Size and capacity: Consider your needs and the size of the salmon fillets you plan to grill. If you often cook large portions, opt for a microwave oven with enough capacity to accommodate bigger fillets without overcrowding the space.
- Grill function: Some microwave ovens come with a dedicated grill function, which allows you to achieve a crispy and browned exterior on your salmon while keeping the inside moist and tender. This feature can greatly enhance the grilling experience.
- Adjustable settings: Look for a microwave oven that offers adjustable power levels and cooking times. Being able to control these settings will give you more flexibility in achieving the desired doneness and texture for your grilled salmon.
- Easy to clean: Consider the ease of cleaning when selecting a microwave oven. Look for a model with removable grilling racks or an easy-to-clean interior, as grilling salmon can create splatters and drippings that may need to be wiped off.
- Additional features: Lastly, consider any additional features that might be important to you, such as pre-programmed cooking settings, sensor technology, or a child lock function. These features can add convenience and safety to your grilling experience.
By considering these factors and choosing the right microwave oven, you can ensure that grilling salmon in the microwave yields delicious and perfectly cooked results every time.
Grilling the Salmon
Once you have prepared the salmon by marinating it, it is time to grill it in the microwave oven. Follow these steps to achieve perfectly grilled salmon:
Step 1: Preheat the grill
Start by preheating the grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the salmon is cooked evenly and gets those beautiful grill marks.
Step 2: Grease the grill grates
Next, grease the grill grates with cooking spray or oil to prevent the salmon from sticking to the grates.
Step 3: Place the salmon on the grill
Place the marinated salmon on the grill, skin side down. Close the grill lid and let it cook for about 4-6 minutes.
Step 4: Flip the salmon
Carefully flip the salmon using a spatula. Close the grill lid and cook for another 4-6 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Step 5: Check for doneness
To check if the salmon is cooked, insert a fork or a knife in the thickest part of the fish. If it flakes easily and is opaque in the center, it is done. If not, continue grilling for a few more minutes.
Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful piece of grilled salmon.
Serving and Enjoying
To serve your grilled salmon, you can simply transfer it to a serving platter or plate. You can garnish it with freshly chopped herbs like dill or parsley to add a pop of color and extra flavor. Squeezing some lemon juice over the top can also enhance the taste.
Pair your perfectly grilled salmon with a side dish of your choice. Some popular options include steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad. The light and flavorful salmon will complement these dishes beautifully.
When it comes to enjoying your grilled salmon, make sure to savor each bite. The tender, flaky texture and smoky flavor will be a delight to your taste buds. Take your time and appreciate the deliciousness of the dish.
Remember to clean up your microwave oven after use to ensure its longevity. Remove any grease or residue from the interior and wipe it down with a damp cloth. This will help maintain the microwave’s performance and prevent any unpleasant odors.
Grilling salmon in a microwave oven may be unconventional, but it can produce fantastic results. The ease and convenience of this cooking method make it worth trying, especially for those who don’t have access to an outdoor grill. Give it a go and enjoy delicious, perfectly grilled salmon right from your microwave oven.
FAQ
Can you grill salmon in a microwave oven?
Yes, you can grill salmon in a microwave oven. While it may not provide the same flavor as grilling on an outdoor grill or stove top, it can be a convenient option for cooking salmon indoors.
How do I grill salmon in a microwave oven?
To grill salmon in a microwave oven, start by seasoning the salmon fillet with your preferred spices, herbs, or marinade. Next, place the salmon on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Cook the salmon on high power for about 3-4 minutes per 120 grams of fish, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
