The Trick to Cooking Fish

Fish can make for a healthy, quick and satisfying dinner any night of the week. However, many people find that they tend to overcook fish. Don't worry, it's easy to avoid this common error.

Thomas Joseph uses salmon in his demonstration above, but feel free to use any fish. Joseph points out the difference between farmed and wild salmon is pretty stark in their coloring. (Farmed salmon is lighter and wild salmon has more intense flavor, thanks to its diet.) Liberally sprinkle oil on the fish, and season it with salt and freshly ground pepper.

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and drizzle a little bit of oil on it. Joseph explains that you should place the fish skin-side down on to the skillet, which will make the skin nice and crispy. Once the skin has a nice brown color to it, flip the salmon over and cook for another minute or so. Then, pop the fish into the oven at 350 degrees for around five to seven minutes to cook further, depending on the fish's thickness.

To test whether the fish is done cooking, stick a cake tester or a thin paring knife into the center of the fish filet. You should be able to feel some warmth around the utensil once you remove it, which means the fish has fully cooked in the center. Place the fish on a plate, and add a squeeze of fresh lemon or some butter to finish it off!

Watch the video above to learn the trick to cooking fish perfectly every time! Then, check out the slideshow below to discover 10 fantastic fish recipes!

Image Credit: Martha Stewart