Fishmongers and markets commonly sell salmon fillets with the skin remaining on one side. You might be tempted to remove the skin, but don't. Heart-healthy omega-3 fats are just under the skin, and leaving the skin on helps keep the fish from falling apart ... and it tastes good! A common method for cooking salmon at home is simply to bake it. This method will retain the fish's natural flavor and much of its nutritional value. Serve baked salmon with sauteed asparagus, roasted red potatoes and a rich Chardonnay for a simple, yet elegant, meal.
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
Rinse 1 lb. salmon fillet under cold water and allow it to drain in a colander for five minutes. Pat with paper towels until it is completely dry.
Brush the skin side of the fish with extra virgin olive oil and place, skin side down, in a baking dish or roasting pan. Then, brush the other side with olive oil and season with sea salt or kosher salt and coarse ground black pepper to taste.
Bake for until desired doneness -- 11 minutes for rare, 12 to 14 minutes for medium, and 14 to 17 minutes for more well done fish with a crisp, lightly browned outside.
Transfer the fish to a large serving platter or individual serving plates. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving, so the internal juices can redistribute, making the meat moist and tender.