By Lori Walker, MS, RD | Published on October 5, 2023 | Last Updated on November 9, 2023
Are you ready to cook up a storm with Costco’s Kirkland Wild Salmon Fillets? Known for their quality and rich, flavorful taste, these fillets are the perfect centerpiece for any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this guide will walk you through the process of preparing these salmon fillets to perfection.
With just a few simple ingredients like olive oil, thyme, salt, pepper, and garlic powder, you’ll be able to transform these fillets into a gourmet dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. So, let’s dive in and discover the art of cooking Costco’s salmon fillets!
What is Costco Salmon?
Costco’s Kirkland Wild Salmon Fillets are premium, wild-caught Alaskan sockeye salmon. These fillets are rich in healthy omega-3 fatty acids that can support a wide range of health benefits like improved brain function and heart health.
Additionally, Costco’s salmon is responsibly caught using sustainable fishing methods. Plus, Costco’s salmon fillets offer an unbeatable taste. Their firm texture and mild flavor make them the perfect addition to any meal. Plus, with their simple preparation methods, they can be cooked in a matter of
Why You’ll Love this Costco Salmon?
This Costco Salmon recipe is a total game-changer! Not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. All you need are a few simple ingredients and tools like an oven and baking sheet. Plus, since the cooking process only takes about 15 minutes, this dish can be made in no time.
If you’re looking for a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make meal, then this Costco Salmon recipe is a perfect choice. You’ll love its succulent flavor and flaky texture that make it the ideal centerpiece for any dinner spread. Plus, you can feel good knowing that this dish is packed with hefty doses of omega-3 fatty acids.
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The Ingredients
- Dried Thyme: Dried thyme adds a subtle, earthy flavor that complements the taste of the salmon. It’s not overpowering and helps to enhance the natural flavors of the fish. This herb is common in many fish recipes due to its versatility and ability to blend well with other seasonings.
- Costco Kirkland Wild Salmon Fillets: The star of the show, wild salmon is not only delicious but also packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Costco’s Kirkland brand is known for its quality, and the 1-inch thickness of these fillets ensures a good balance of heat distribution during cooking and a perfect flaky texture when done.
- Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt/Sea Salt: Salt is an essential seasoning that brings out the flavor of the other ingredients. Diamond Crystal Kosher salt has a larger grain size than table salt, allowing for better control when seasoning. Alternatively, sea salt can be used, which may impart a slight mineral flavor beneficial to the overall taste of the dish.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil serves two purposes in this recipe. First, it helps to prevent the salmon from sticking to the pan or grill. Second, it contributes to the richness of the dish and enhances the absorption of the fat-soluble flavors from the other ingredients. It also adds some heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: This provides a hint of heat and depth of flavor. Freshly ground black pepper is often more flavorful than pre-ground pepper and can elevate the dish by adding a layer of complexity to its taste profile.
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder offers a concentrated garlic flavor that pairs wonderfully with salmon. It’s an easy way to add a punch of flavor without the need to peel and mince fresh garlic. The powder disperses evenly over the fillets, ensuring a consistent garlic taste in every bite.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This initial step sets the stage for a perfectly cooked Costco salmon that’s both tender and flavorful.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with either parchment paper or aluminum foil. To prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup, lightly grease the lined sheet with a thin layer of oil. This essential prep work guarantees a hassle-free cooking experience.
Step 3: Place the Salmon
Lay the salmon fillets onto the prepared baking sheet with the skin side facing down. Proper placement on the baking sheet ensures even cooking and preserves the salmon’s delicate texture.
Step 4: Drizzle with Olive Oil
Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over each fillet. Gently rub the oil into the salmon, ensuring an even and flavorful coating. This step not only enhances the salmon’s taste but also helps achieve a crispy exterior.
Step 5: Season to Perfection
For a burst of flavor, sprinkle the salmon fillets with a well-balanced combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme. These seasonings will infuse your Costco salmon with irresistible aromas and taste.
Step 6: Bake with Precision
Slide the prepared baking sheet into the preheated oven. Allow the salmon to bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (62°C). This is the moment when the salmon achieves its exquisite flakiness and succulence.
Step 7: Plate and Serve
Once your salmon is baked to perfection, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using a spatula, gently transfer the fillets to individual plates.
Notes
- For an even more pronounced flavor, try marinating the salmon with your preferred seasonings for 20 minutes before baking.
- If you don’t have olive oil on hand, any type of neutral cooking oil will work just fine. However, olive oil is preferable as it adds a nice richness to the dish.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that you are using a gluten-free seasoning blend or make your seasoning with ingredients like garlic powder, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- For an extra touch of decadence, top each fillet with a pat of butter before baking. This will add a subtle richness and additional juiciness to the salmon.
Nutrition Information
How to store Costco Salmon?
Once cooked, Costco Salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the salmon for future use. To do this, wrap each fillet tightly with either plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it into a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, simply thaw out the salmon in their refrigerator overnight and reheat it using your preferred method.
For optimal safety, make sure the salmon is fully cooked before storing and that you refrigerate or freeze it as soon as possible after cooking. This will help to maintain its freshness, flavor, and texture. Additionally, leave cooked salmon out at room temperature for up to two hours. Doing so can significantly reduce its shelf life and increase the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Variations
- Use different herbs and spices to season the salmon such as oregano, basil, or rosemary.
- For a sweeter flavor, add a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar to the olive oil before coating the salmon fillets.
- For an Asian-inspired dish, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger powder, garlic powder, and sesame oil for a marinade.
- Try topping the salmon with a lemon-herb butter sauce or a creamy dill sauce for a luxurious finish.
- Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese for a crunchy crust on top of the fillets.
- For added texture and flavor, sprinkle some capers or sliced almonds onto the salmon before baking.
- Serve with roasted vegetables, grilled asparagus, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- To give the salmon an extra smoky flavor, cook it on the grill over medium heat for 15 minutes.
- Try baking the salmon in a foil pouch with some citrus slices and herbs for an effortless meal.
- Use leftover cooked salmon to make delicious fish cakes or salmon quiche.
- For a zesty finish, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley onto the cooked fillets before serving.
Costco Salmon Cooking Instructions
Ingredients
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme imparting a delicate herbal aroma and a mild earthy taste that elevates the overall flavor profile of the salmon.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder infusing the salmon with a savory and aromatic note, adding depth of flavor and a delightful hint of roasted garlic.
- 1/2 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt or 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, enhancing the natural flavors of the salmon while adding a delicate seasoning that brings out its inherent taste.
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil providing a subtle fruity flavor and a hint of richness, ensuring the salmon fillets stay moist and tender during cooking.
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper lending a subtle kick and a hint of spiciness that complements the richness of the salmon without overpowering it.
- 2 6 oz Costco Kirkland wild salmon fillets, skin on or skinless, about 1 inch thick, boasting exceptional quality and freshness, sourced from the pristine waters and offering a succulent and flavorful seafood experience.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line and lightly grease a baking sheet with oil.
- Put the salmon fillets on the prepared sheet, skin-side down.
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil on each fillet and evenly rub it in. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (62°C).
- Remove from the oven, plate the salmon, and serve with your choice of sides.
Notes
- For an even more pronounced flavor, try marinating the salmon with your preferred seasonings for 20 minutes before baking.
- If you don’t have olive oil on hand, any type of neutral cooking oil will work just fine. However, olive oil is preferable as it adds a nice richness to the dish.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that you are using a gluten-free seasoning blend or make your seasoning with ingredients like garlic powder, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- For an extra touch of decadence, top each fillet with a pat of butter before baking. This will add a subtle richness and additional juiciness to the salmon.
FAQs
Q. What is the best temperature and cooking time for Costco Salmon?
A. The optimal temperature and cooking time for Costco Salmon depends on the thickness of the fillets. For a perfectly cooked salmon, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the fillets until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (62°C). This usually takes about 15 minutes for a 1-inch thick fillet.
Q. How do I know when the salmon is cooked?
A. You can tell that the salmon is properly cooked when it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Additionally, you can use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the salmon – 145°F (62°C) is the ideal temperature for a perfectly cooked fillet.
Q. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
A. Yes, you can use frozen Costco Salmon for this recipe! To ensure that your salmon comes out tender and juicy, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Additionally, pat each fillet dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
Wrapping Up
This easy-to-follow Costco Salmon Recipe gives you all the tips and tricks for cooking up delicious, juicy fillets every time. With just a few simple steps and some basic ingredients, you can enjoy restaurant-quality salmon right from your kitchen!
So next time you’re looking for an impressive yet effortless meal to make at home, give this recipe a try and you’ll be glad that you did. Plus, let us know in the comments below if you have any tips or tricks to share!
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more
