How to Microwave Frozen Salmon

//cookanyday.com/cdn/shop/files/SalmonFrozen_1_360x.webp?v=1722358422 Perfectly cooked frozen salmon made and served in the glass Anyday dish, providing tender and flaky fish fillets. This method ensures evenly cooked salmon with no thawing needed, ideal for a quick and healthy main dish.
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Prep Time

1 min

Cook Time

4-6 mins

Free Time

to plan a fishing trip

Cooking frozen salmon has never been more convenient! Simply place the frozen filet in a vented, steam-trapping Anyday dish and microwave on the right power level. The result? Perfectly cooked salmon every time, without having to wait for it to thaw!

This method is perfect for busy days when you need a quick, nutritious meal.

All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwaves and home kitchens to make sure they work — and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.

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What You’ll Need

What You’ll Need

The Medium Shallow Dish

Look no further for making poached eggs, desserts, dips, and small portions of meat or fish.

The Anyhand Mitts

Handle hot Anyday dishes with care with these microwave mitts that double as trivets!
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Select your serving size and microwave wattage in the dropdown. The recipe will change accordingly.

One 4-6oz filet

Select your microwave wattage in the dropdown. The cook times in this recipe will automatically change accordingly.

[[video-wattage]]

To find your microwave’s wattage, look at the front panel, the side of the door, in the back, in the user manual, or Google the model number. If both an input and output wattage are listed, use the output.

Wattage translates to how powerful the microwave is. The higher the wattage, the faster your food will cook. The lower the wattage, the longer the cook time.

When in doubt, start with less time — you can always add more.

Microwave oven by power - 700w
700w

Recommended 

Dish

The Medium Shallow Dish

Ingredients

  • 1 4-6 oz (115-170g) frozen salmon filet, keep frozen
  • salt or seasoning to taste

Preparation

  1. Place the frozen salmon filet in the Anyday dish and season to taste with salt or any spices of your choosing. Cover with lid (knob lifted).
  2. Cook in the microwave at Power Level 8tooltip for 4-6 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
  3. If the fish needs more cooking time, cook in 30-second increments until the salmon is cooked through to your liking.

Serving suggestions & tips

  • Lemon dill: Season the cooked salmon with fresh lemon juice, chopped dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Miso mustard: Brush the cooked salmon with a mixture of miso, Dijon mustard, and a splash of soy sauce.
  • Cajun spice: Coat before cooking with a Cajun seasoning blend for a spicy kick.
  • Herb crust: Pile a mixture of breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, thyme, and lemon zest onto the salmon before steaming for a refreshing crust.

Recipe notes

  • There is no need to thaw the fish!(This is the ultimate time-saving hack.)
  • For fresh salmon filets, follow the directions in this recipe.
  • Select the wattage on your microwave in our recipe for the most accurate cook time, or use the instructions on the back of the package as guidelines.
  • Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.

Microwave Match Up: Frozen Salmon

See for yourself— microwaving frozen salmon is simply faster, start to finish.

Appliance Cook Time
Microwave in an Anyday dish 4-6 mins
Oven* 25 mins
Stovetop* 15 mins
Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker)* 20 mins
*Includes defrosting time

All You Need to Know About Microwaving Frozen Salmon

Can I cook frozen salmon in the microwave?

Ingredient Power Level Cooking Time
One 4-6oz frozen salmon fillet 8 4-6 mins
Two 4-6 oz frozen salmon fillets 8 5-7 mins
Three 4-6 oz frozen salmon fillets 8 7-9 mins
Four 4-6 oz frozen salmon fillets 8 9-11 mins
Cook time calculated for 700w microwave

Yes, you can cook various types of frozen fish in the microwave, including frozen salmon. While cooking times may vary based on factors like quantity and microwave wattage, the basic microwave process remains consistent. Adjusting to a lower power level (depending on your specific microwave wattage) is the most important step required to obtain the best possible results. This versatility makes frozen fish a convenient and adaptable choice for quick and easy meals. Check out the cook times for Fresh Salmon here!

How long does it take to cook frozen salmon in the microwave?

The microwave cooking time for frozen salmon varies, but a general guideline is 4-6 minutes for one 4-6oz fillet at a lower power level. Factors like quantity, microwave wattage, and desired texture play a role. For the best results, start with the lower time range and add more time as needed.

Shall I thaw the salmon before cooking?

No need to defrost! The Anyday dish will help you maximize your microwave capabilities. By adjusting the power level, our vented lid will trap the right amount of steam and heat to both defrost and cook the salmon without compromising the quality of the results. This makes it the most convenient way to cook salmon, saving you time while ensuring a delicious meal.

How do I know when frozen salmon is properly cooked in the microwave?

Frozen salmon is properly cooked when the flesh becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. If you're unsure, test a small portion for doneness. Adjust microwave cooking times as needed to achieve optimal results, ensuring the salmon is tender and juicy. If in doubt, ensure the internal temperature is between 120°F and 150°F, from medium-rare to well-done.

What should I do if the frozen salmon appears undercooked after microwaving?

If the frozen salmon appears undercooked or cold in the center, simply add more cooking time using the same power level. Start with 30-second intervals until the salmon reaches your desired doneness. This ensures the salmon is fully cooked while maintaining its texture and flavor.

How do I store leftover microwaved frozen salmon?

Store leftover microwaved frozen salmon in the refrigerator in an Anyday dish with the lid for optional freshness. It will remain fresh for 1-3 days. When reheating, use the microwave for 1-2 minutes per filet at a medium power level for best results. Check intermittently until the desired temperature is reached. This method ensures the salmon retains its flavor and texture. Do not re-freeze cooked frozen salmon.

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