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How to Buy and Cook Salmon

How to Buy and Cook Salmon

Salmon is considered to be one of the healthiest types of fish you can eat. It doesn't have a strong fishy flavor and this allows it to be served with many kinds of dishes. Salmon has a nice firm texture which makes it easy to cook. In addition to being a good lean source of protein, salmon is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids found to boost good cholesterol and decrease the bad cholesterol. These polyunsaturated fats have been found to help with heart disease, arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.

Salmon is an excellent source of omega 3 fatty acids which is a type of fat that makes your blood less likely to form clots, and it also protects against irregular heartbeats that may cause sudden cardiac death, decreases triglyceride levels, decreases the growth of artery clogging plaques, lowers blood pressure and reduces the risk of stroke. It's a really healthy food with low carbs. And it tastes great to boot.

When buying fresh salmon here's what to look for: The eyes should be bright and clear; gills reddish; skin moist with shiny, tight fitting scales. When you press the salmon with a finger the meat will give slightly then spring back into shape. It shouldn't smell fishy.

A whole salmon includes the salmon head and tail, although the organs have been removed for easy preparation. This cut is best for serving large groups. A whole salmon can be stuffed and makes an awesome presentation.

Salmon fillet is a section of the salmon that is separated from the ribs and backbone producing two long portions of boneless meat. Salmon fillets make for a very beautiful presentation because the skin and bones have been removed. Fillets are good for many ways of preparation such as poaching, curing, steaming, smoking, or pan-frying.

Salmon Steaks are cut transversely through the backbone, producing portions about one inch thick. Salmon steaks are best for grilling.

When buying salmon, it's important to remember that while the cut of the salmon can also determine portion size, it's best to plan on approximately 6 ounces of raw salmon per serving.

When it comes to sides to serve with salmon always have lemon juice! Other choices are pumpernickel bread, a dash of horseradish, green asparagus, tarragon mayonnaise, twice baked potatoes, crispy green beans, carrots, a green salad with tomatoes and spring onions and toasted garlic bread.

There are various ways to prepare salmon: Oven broiler, BBQ, sautéed, poached or baked. Recipes can be as simple as sprinkling some pepper and olive oil over the fish. We have come up with six delicious recipes for you to check out: Baked Horseradish Salmon Low Salt Recipe, Baked Salmon Steak, Citrus Baked Salmon, Grilled Salmon, Macadamia Crusted Salmon and Glazed Salmon. Let us know what you think of them!