Steaming Salmon: A Healthy, Quick, And Easy Dinner Option

Steaming salmon is a quick, easy, and healthy way to prepare this delicate fish. It is also a great way to retain the nutrients and keep the salmon moist and full of flavour. To cook salmon in a steamer basket, you will need a pot with a tight-fitting lid, a steamer basket, and some water or broth. You can also add aromatics like lemon, garlic, and herbs to the steaming liquid to infuse extra flavour into the salmon. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the salmon fillets, but generally, it should take around 5-10 minutes for the salmon to be cooked through.

How to prepare your steamer basket

First, you will need to decide on the type of steamer you will use. You can use a stainless steel vegetable steamer, an Asian bamboo stackable steamer, a small steamer pan, a regular metal colander, or a collapsible vegetable steamer. You will also need a pot with a tight-fitting lid to place the steamer basket inside.

Once you have chosen your steamer, fill the pot with about one to two inches of water and place it on the stove over medium-high heat. You can also use other liquids such as broth or wine to add more flavor to the salmon.

While the water is heating up, prepare your steamer basket. Thinly slice a lemon and line the bottom of the basket with the slices. You can also add some fresh dill or other herbs such as parsley and thyme on top of the lemon slices.

If you are using a collapsible steamer basket, wait until the water is simmering before expanding and placing the basket in the pot. This will prevent you from burning your hands on the steam.

Now it's time to season the salmon. Sprinkle both sides of the salmon fillets with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other seasonings such as garlic, cumin, or coriander. Place the salmon fillets on top of the dill and lemon in the basket, leaving some space between the fillets to allow the steam to circulate.

Finally, place the lid on the pot and bring the water to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low and maintain a strong simmer. Your steamer basket is now ready for steaming the salmon!

What to season the salmon with

Seasoning salmon is a matter of personal preference, but there are some classic combinations that work particularly well with this fish.

A simple combination of salt and pepper is a good place to start. From there, you can add other seasonings like granulated garlic, lemon pepper, or everything-but-the-bagel blend. If you're feeling adventurous, try a dry rub or a taco seasoning blend.

For a Mediterranean twist, try a combination of cumin, coriander, and Aleppo pepper. This blend of spices will give your salmon a unique and delicious flavour.

If you're looking for an Asian-inspired dish, ginger, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes are a great combination. You can also try a sesame oil and soy sauce combination, garnished with green onions.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and find the combinations that you like best!

How long to steam the salmon for

The length of time you steam the salmon for will depend on the thickness of the fillets and your desired level of doneness. A one-inch-thick salmon fillet will take around 6-8 minutes to cook, and you should add another 3-4 minutes for each additional half-inch of thickness.

For a medium-rare finish, the salmon should be opaque on the outside and slightly translucent in the centre. It should give slightly when you press it, and its internal temperature should be between 120°F and 125°F.

For a medium to well-done finish, the internal temperature should be between 125°F and 145°F.

How to tell when the salmon is cooked

There are several ways to tell when your salmon is cooked. Firstly, you can use a meat or instant thermometer to check the internal temperature of the salmon. The internal temperature of the salmon should be at least 145°F (63°C) before serving. If you do not have a thermometer, you can use a sharp knife to check the salmon for doneness. Insert the tip of the knife into the thickest part of the fish and check that it is opaque on the outside and slightly translucent in the centre. The fish should also give slightly when you press it. Another way to check is to flake the fish with a fork to see if it separates easily.

What to serve with the salmon

There are many side dishes that can complement steamed salmon. Here are some ideas:

Starch

• White rice
• Baked potato
• Rice pilaf
• Couscous
• Mashed potatoes
• Quinoa
• Farro
• Orzo pasta
• Ramen

Vegetables

• Green asparagus
• Broccoli
• Spinach
• Brussel sprouts
• Green beans
• Oven-roasted asparagus
• Broccoli with bacon and cranberries
• Green beans almondine
• Grilled vegetables (zucchini, red peppers, purple onions, yellow squash, eggplant, cauliflower steaks)
• Roasted zucchini with Parmesan
• Microwave asparagus
• Roasted parmesan rosemary potatoes
• Greek lemon-roasted baby potatoes
• Harvest salad with quinoa and arugula
• Lemon butter pasta
• Purple cabbage slaw
• Roasted zucchini
• Cucumber salad
• Snow peas
• Avocados
• Blueberry walnut salad
• Roasted beets and carrots

Salad

• Kale, quinoa, and avocado salad with lemon Dijon vinaigrette
• Asian cucumber and peanut salad
• Mediterranean farro salad
• Adrienne's cucumber salad
• Instant pot linguine with pesto and peas
• Light lemon pesto pasta
• Cauliflower tabbouleh

Frequently asked questions