Can you microwave salmon from frozen?

Yes, you can microwave salmon directly from frozen. Microwaving is a quick and convenient cooking method that allows you to avoid thawing the salmon first. However, there are some tips and tricks to follow to ensure the salmon turns out moist, flaky and fully cooked when microwaved from its frozen state.

Should You Thaw Salmon Before Microwaving?

Thawing before cooking is often recommended when cooking salmon to ensure even cooking. However, with the microwave, you can skip this step. The microwave’s intense heat can cook frozen salmon thoroughly and safely in just minutes.

Microwaving frozen salmon has several advantages:

• It’s faster – no need to wait hours for salmon to thaw.
• Easier – you avoid having to plan ahead and remember to thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight.
• Less messy – thawing can sometimes lead toLeaks and mess as the salmon begins to defrost unevenly.

So microwaving from frozen is not only possible, but also convenient when you want salmon in a hurry.

Microwaving Times for Frozen Salmon

Microwave wattages can vary, so cooking times will depend on your particular appliance. Here are general guidelines for frozen salmon fillets and steaks:

• For a 1100 watt microwave:
  • 1/4 inch thick – cook for 3 minutes
  • 1/2 inch thick – 4 to 5 minutes
  • 3/4 to 1 inch thick – 6 minutes
• For an 850 watt microwave:
  • 1/4 inch thick – cook for 3 1/2 minutes
  • 1/2 inch thick – 5 to 6 minutes
  • 3/4 to 1 inch thick – 7 minutes
• For a 700 watt microwave:
  • 1/4 inch thick – cook for 4 minutes
  • 1/2 inch thick – 6 to 7 minutes
  • 3/4 to 1 inch thick – 8 minutes

For a whole salmon steak or fillet, it’s best to microwave initially for the thickness guidelines above, then check for doneness and continue cooking if needed in 1 minute increments.

Tips for Microwaving Frozen Salmon

Follow these tips to ensure delicious, flaky results when microwaving salmon straight from the freezer:

• Use a microwave-safe dish. Glass, ceramic or high heat plastic all work well.
• Cover the dish with a paper towel, damp paper towel or microwave splatter guard. This retains moisture.
• Lay salmon fillets in a single layer, not overlapping. This allows even cooking.
• Brush fillets lightly with oil or butter before cooking for extra moisture and flavor.
• Don’t overcook – check for doneness a minute or two before recommended times.
• Allow to rest for a minute before serving.

How to Tell When Microwaved Salmon is Done

It can be tricky determining doneness, since a microwave doesn’t brown foods. Here are tips for checking when salmon is fully cooked through:

• Use a food thermometer – salmon should reach 145°F.
• Check for opaque, flaky flesh – salmon should not look translucent anywhere.
• Try gently pulling/prying the flesh apart with a fork – it should separate into clean flakes easily when fully cooked.
• If unsure, it’s always safest to microwave for the full recommended time, especially if cooking from freezer.

Recipe: Lemon-Herb Frozen Salmon

This easy microwave recipe flavors frozen salmon fillets beautifully in just 5 minutes prep time:

Ingredients:

• 2 (6 oz) frozen salmon fillets, about 1 inch thick
• 2 tsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place salmon fillets in a microwave-safe dish. Brush tops lightly with olive oil.
2. In a small bowl, combine garlic, basil, oregano, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Stir to form a paste.
3. Spread herb paste evenly over salmon fillets.
4. Microwave salmon uncovered on high for 6-7 minutes until fish flakes easily and registers 145°F.
5. Let rest 2 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Can You Refreeze Salmon After Microwaving?

It’s not recommended to refreeze salmon or any type of fish after it has been thawed and cooked. Refreezing can lead to quality and safety issues:

• Texture – Refreezing causes damage to the flesh structure, creating undesirable mushiness.
• Moisture loss – Multiple thaw and freeze cycles result in more moisture loss.
• Bacteria – Bacteria considered safe at cool temps can multiply again during warming in the microwave. Subsequent freezing doesn’t destroy these bacteria.

For optimal quality and food safety, cook fish like salmon within 1-2 days after thawing and don’t refreeze any leftovers.

Storing Leftover Microwaved Salmon

To store leftover cooked salmon that was microwaved from frozen:

• Let cool, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Use within 3-4 days for best quality.
• You can also wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for 1-2 months.
• When ready to eat, thaw in fridge overnight before gently reheating.

Other Ways to Cook Salmon from Frozen

Besides the microwave, other easy cooking methods can be used to prepare frozen salmon fillets include:

• Oven baking – Bake in foil at 400°F, until flaky. Times range from 15-25 mins depending on thickness.
• Pan searing – Sear skin-side down over medium-high heat in an oiled non-stick pan for 4-5 minutes per side.
• Poaching – Gently simmer in broth, wine or a poaching liquid until just opaque throughout.
• Sous vide – Seal and cook at 110°F for 25-45 mins for tender, even doneness throughout.

The microwave offers the fastest cooking, but experiment to find your favorite method of cooking salmon straight from the freezer.

Common Questions About Microwaving Frozen Salmon

Is microwaved frozen salmon safe to eat?

Yes, it is completely safe provided it is cooked to the proper internal temperature of 145°F. This kills any potential bacteria or parasites present. Use a food thermometer to verify doneness.

Can you microwave frozen salmon in the package?

It’s not recommended. Most freezer packaging contains plastics that are not microwave-safe at high temps. It’s better to thaw just enough to remove fish from packaging, then cook in a microwave-safe dish.

Why is my microwaved frozen salmon dry?

Overcooking is the most common cause of dry salmon. Try reducing cook times and checking earlier for doneness. Brushing with oil or butter and covering the dish can also help retain moisture.

How long does cooked microwaved salmon last in the fridge?

Cooked salmon should keep for 3-4 days refrigerated. Be sure to store it in an airtight container. Discard if you notice any sour odors, sliminess or other signs of spoilage.

Thickness	Microwave Time (1100W)	Microwave Time (850W)	Microwave Time (700W)
1/4 inch	3 minutes	3 1/2 minutes	4 minutes
1/2 inch	4-5 minutes	5-6 minutes	6-7 minutes
3/4 – 1 inch	6 minutes	7 minutes	8 minutes

Conclusion

Microwaving salmon straight from frozen is absolutely possible. With the right techniques, the microwave can produce delicious salmon fillets that are tender inside yet fully cooked through. Keep cooking times short to prevent overdrying, and use a covered dish to retain moisture. In just a few minutes, you can enjoy flaky, microwave-seared salmon without any tedious thawing or waiting.