Salmon is a delicious and healthy protein source that can be prepared in various ways, be it grilled, baked, or pan-seared. However, cooking it to perfection can be a challenge for some. Here are four ways to tell when your salmon is cooked and ready to serve.

1. Check the Color

Visually inspect the color of the salmon as it cooks. Raw salmon has a bright orange hue, while cooked salmon starts to take on a lighter, opaque appearance. Typically, medium-rare salmon appears to be slightly translucent at its thickest part but opaque around the edges. If you prefer your fish well-done, you should wait for the entire piece to become opaque.

2. Use a Fork

The texture of the salmon changes as it cooks, becoming flakier with each passing minute. To check if your salmon is ready, gently insert a fork into the thickest part of the fillet and twist slightly. If the salmon flakes apart easily – but still has some resistance – it’s most likely done.

3. Measure the Internal Temperature

Using a food thermometer provides the most accurate way to determine if your salmon is cooked thoroughly. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the fillet without touching any bones—or if using an instant-read thermometer, leave it in for about 10 seconds before checking its temperature display.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the safe internal temperature for cooked fish is 145°F (63°C). For medium-rare doneness, aim for 120°F (49°C) internal temperature; medium doneness requires 130°F (54°C).

4. Use the “10-Minute Rule”

For those who do not own a food thermometer or are looking for a more general cooking guideline, consider using the “10-minute rule.” This method suggests you should cook fish – including salmon – for about 10 minutes per inch of thickness at the thickest part. Remember that this method is not foolproof, as factors like oven temperatures and fillet sizes can vary – it is always best to use a thermometer for precision.

With these four methods to determine if your salmon is cooked, you’ll be able to serve up tender, flavorful fish every time. Keep practicing and fine-tune your cooking technique, and soon enough, you’ll become a pro at preparing perfectly cooked salmon.