Gordon Ramsay’s Crispy Skin Salmon Recipe [+Tips & Tricks]

Gordon Ramsay’s Crispy Skin Salmon is the perfect dish for anyone looking to experience a restaurant-quality meal at home, combining a beautifully crispy skin with a tender, flaky interior and a balance of rich, fresh flavors.

What Is Gordon Ramsay’s Crispy Skin Salmon

Gordon Ramsay’s Crispy Skin Salmon is a deceptively simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that elevates the natural taste of salmon. This dish features perfectly seared salmon with skin that crisps to perfection while keeping the flesh moist and flaky.

Ramsay adds a combination of expert seasoning, along with a touch of acidity and fresh herbs, to enhance the overall profile of the dish. It’s a fusion of texture, flavor, and cooking precision, and serves as an ideal dish for both beginners and experienced cooks.

Gordon Ramsay’s Crispy Skin Salmon Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Gordon Ramsay’s Crispy Skin Salmon, you will need the following ingredients:

• Salmon Fillets – Skin-on, preferably with the bones removed (though keeping the skin intact is crucial for the crispy effect).
• Olive Oil – For searing the salmon to achieve that crispy skin.
• Butter – Adds richness and a silky finish.
• Lemon – Fresh lemon juice and zest will add brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the salmon.
• Garlic – Adds a savory, aromatic element.
• Thyme – A fresh herb that complements salmon wonderfully.
• Sea Salt and Black Pepper – For seasoning the salmon, helping enhance its natural flavors.
• Optional Garnish – Fresh parsley or dill, to add freshness and a pop of color.

Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make Gordon Ramsay’s Crispy Skin Salmon:

• Non-stick Skillet or Cast Iron Pan – A sturdy pan to evenly cook the salmon and achieve that crispy skin without sticking.
• Tongs – To handle the salmon carefully, ensuring you don’t break the delicate skin.
• Lemon Zester – For finely zesting the lemon for flavor.
• Spatula – A thin spatula will help flip the salmon without disrupting the skin.
• Knife and Chopping Board – To prep the garlic, thyme, and any other fresh herbs.

How To Make Gordon Ramsay’s Crispy Skin Salmon?

Follow these simple steps to create this mouth-watering dish:

1. Prepare the Salmon: Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Drying the skin is key to achieving that coveted crispy texture. Season both sides of the fillet with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the Pan: Place your non-stick skillet or cast iron pan on medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Let the oil heat up until it shimmers but doesn’t smoke.
3. Sear the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down into the pan. Press gently with a spatula to prevent the skin from curling. Leave the fillets undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes, allowing the skin to become golden and crispy.
4. Flip the Salmon: Once the skin is crispy and golden, flip the salmon fillets over. Add a knob of butter, some crushed garlic, and sprigs of thyme into the pan. Let the butter melt, basting the salmon with the flavorful butter and herbs for another 2-3 minutes, or until the fish is cooked to your liking.
5. Finish with Lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon to add a zesty brightness. Optionally, you can zest the lemon as well for an additional layer of citrus flavor.
6. Serve: Once the salmon is cooked to your desired level (medium-rare or well-done), remove it from the pan. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill, and serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Expert Tips

• Crispy Skin: The secret to achieving crispy skin is ensuring that the skin is completely dry before cooking. Any moisture will result in steamed skin, rather than the crispy texture you’re aiming for.
• Don’t Move the Salmon: Once the salmon is placed in the pan skin-side down, resist the urge to move it around. Let the heat do the work to form a crispy crust.
• Temperature Control: Make sure the pan is hot enough before adding the salmon, but not too hot that it burns. Medium-high heat is the ideal balance for a golden brown crust without overcooking the inside.
• Baste with Butter: Basting the salmon with melted butter infused with garlic and herbs enhances the flavor and keeps the fish moist.
• Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh, high-quality salmon will make all the difference in this dish. Opt for wild-caught if possible.

Gordon Ramsay’s Crispy Skin Salmon is a culinary masterpiece that is both straightforward and impressive. With its perfectly crispy skin and tender, flaky flesh, it’s an easy way to bring a high-end restaurant experience into your home kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.

Easy Recipe Variations For Gordon Ramsay’s Crispy Skin Salmon

Gordon Ramsay’s crispy skin salmon is a crowd-pleasing dish, famous for its perfect balance of tenderness and crunch. If you want to mix things up a bit or try some new flavors, there are several easy variations you can explore to elevate the dish. These additions are simple to incorporate, allowing you to put your personal spin on an already flavorful recipe.

1. Citrus Zest and Herb Infusion
   A great way to brighten up the salmon is to add citrus zest (like lemon, orange, or lime) to the skin while it crisps up. The natural oils from the zest will infuse the skin with a fragrant aroma, and the bright acidity will cut through the richness of the fish. You can pair this with finely chopped herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill to enhance the freshness.

2. Spicy Cajun Rub
   If you love a little heat, you can spice up the salmon with a Cajun-style seasoning. The smoky and spicy rub will pair beautifully with the crispy skin. To make your rub, mix paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This variation works particularly well with a creamy dipping sauce on the side.

3. Maple Glaze and Sesame Seeds
   A sweet and savory combination, a maple glaze brushed onto the crispy skin gives a unique touch to the dish. You can finish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for extra texture and a hint of nuttiness. This variation is perfect when you want something a little more indulgent and exciting.

4. Garlic Butter and Parmesan
   Adding a garlic butter sauce with Parmesan will take the salmon from good to amazing. After the skin crisps up, drizzle the salmon with melted garlic butter, and then sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan over the top. The richness of the butter and the sharpness of the cheese make for a luxurious and decadent dish.

5. Asian-Inspired Soy and Ginger
   For an Asian twist, a soy and ginger glaze can transform the crispy salmon into a flavorful dish with bold umami flavors. Combine soy sauce, grated ginger, honey, and rice vinegar, then brush over the fish in the final moments of cooking. You could even top it with sliced scallions and a dash of sesame oil for a deeper flavor profile.

6. Pineapple Salsa
   To balance the richness of the crispy skin, a fresh pineapple salsa is a refreshing and tropical option. Combine diced pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. This vibrant salsa adds a tangy sweetness that pairs well with the fish’s crispiness.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Crispy skin salmon is a delightful dish that’s best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, proper storage is crucial to maintain the integrity of the fish and its crispy skin. Here’s how to store your leftovers for the best results:

1. Cool the Salmon: Let the salmon cool to room temperature before storing it. However, avoid leaving it out for more than two hours to prevent bacterial growth.
2. Refrigeration: Place the salmon in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 1-2 days. Try to store the salmon separately from any sauces or side dishes to preserve the crispiness of the skin.
3. Crispy Skin Maintenance: To retain the crispy skin, it’s best to reheat the salmon in a hot, dry pan. This will re-crisp the skin without making it soggy. Avoid microwaving the fish, as it will result in a loss of texture.
4. Freezing (Optional): While salmon is best eaten fresh, you can freeze leftovers if necessary. Wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. Be aware that freezing may affect the texture of the fish, particularly the skin.
5. Reheating Tip: When reheating salmon, you want to do so gently to avoid overcooking. Consider reheating it in an oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) until warmed through, then finish it off in a hot pan for that crispy skin.

What Goes Well With Crispy Skin Salmon?

Pairing the right side dishes with your crispy skin salmon can make your meal feel like a gourmet experience. Here are some classic and creative sides that complement the fish’s rich and flavorful profile:

1. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts offer a perfect balance to the richness of the salmon. Their crispy edges and caramelized flavors make for a hearty and satisfying side.
2. Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower Mash: Creamy mashed potatoes are an indulgent and classic pairing for salmon. For a lighter alternative, try mashed cauliflower, which has a similar texture and is a great low-carb option.
3. Rice Pilaf or Quinoa: A fluffy rice pilaf with herbs or quinoa adds a healthy, hearty element to the meal. The nutty flavor of quinoa pairs beautifully with the salmon, and it also adds a nice contrast in texture.
4. Sautéed Greens: Greens like spinach, kale, or Swiss chard sautéed with garlic and olive oil offer a lovely bitterness that complements the rich flavors of the fish.
5. Crispy Potatoes: For a crispy and satisfying side, serve the salmon alongside golden roasted or crispy potatoes. The combination of textures – crispy skin on the salmon and the potatoes – is irresistible.
6. Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad with ingredients like arugula, mixed greens, cucumber, and tomatoes provides a refreshing contrast to the rich fish. A citrus-based vinaigrette can also enhance the flavor and provide a zesty kick.
7. Sauces: A tangy tzatziki or lemon-dill sauce adds a creamy, refreshing element. Alternatively, a mustard or honey-based glaze could bring out the sweetness and complexity of the dish.

Conclusion

Gordon Ramsay’s crispy skin salmon is a versatile and indulgent dish that can be tailored to suit your tastes and preferences. With easy recipe variations, such as adding citrus zest, spicy Cajun rubs, or Asian-inspired glazes, you can bring new life to this classic meal.

When storing leftovers, always remember to cool the salmon and store it in an airtight container for up to two days. If reheating, be sure to restore the crispiness by using a hot pan.

And when it comes to pairings, there’s no shortage of delicious options-whether you choose roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a refreshing salad. With these tips, you can enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal time and time again.

FAQs

What Type Of Salmon Does Gordon Ramsay Recommend For Crispy Skin Salmon?

Gordon Ramsay typically uses skin-on, center-cut fillets of Atlantic or wild-caught King or Sockeye salmon for his crispy skin recipe. The fillet should be about 1-inch thick and as fresh as possible to ensure optimal flavor and texture.

How Does Gordon Ramsay Get The Salmon Skin So Crispy?

To achieve crispy skin, Gordon Ramsay scores the salmon skin lightly with a sharp knife, seasons it well with salt, and cooks it skin-side down in a hot, non-stick or cast iron pan with olive oil. He presses the fillet gently with a spatula during the first minute to prevent curling and ensure even searing.

Should The Salmon Be Cooked Skin-side First?

Yes, Gordon Ramsay always starts cooking the salmon skin-side down. This allows the skin to render fat and become crisp while protecting the delicate flesh from overcooking. The skin is cooked about 90% of the way before flipping it briefly to finish the top side.

What Oil Does Gordon Ramsay Use When Cooking Salmon?

He typically uses a high smoke-point oil such as olive oil or grapeseed oil. This helps achieve a golden, crispy crust without burning, especially since the pan is preheated before adding the fish.

Does Gordon Ramsay Season Both Sides Of The Salmon?

Yes, he generously seasons both the skin and flesh sides with salt and sometimes a touch of pepper. However, seasoning the skin just before it hits the pan helps maximize crispiness.

How Long Does Gordon Ramsay Cook The Salmon?

The cooking time is usually 4-5 minutes on the skin side, depending on thickness, followed by just 30-60 seconds on the flesh side. The salmon should be medium-rare in the center, with the flesh just beginning to flake.

Does Gordon Ramsay Use Butter In His Salmon Recipe?

While olive oil is used for crisping the skin, Ramsay often adds a knob of butter near the end of cooking to baste the salmon and add rich flavor. He may also include crushed garlic and thyme or rosemary for aromatic depth.

What Pan Does Gordon Ramsay Recommend For Crispy Salmon?

He prefers a heavy-bottomed non-stick or cast iron skillet. These retain heat well and promote even browning of the skin, which is critical for achieving a crispy finish without tearing.

Can I Cook The Salmon With The Skin Off?

You can, but it won’t be a ‘crispy skin’ recipe anymore. The skin plays a key role in creating texture and flavor. Ramsay’s method depends on the skin to protect the flesh and add contrast to the dish.

What Are Some Common Sides Gordon Ramsay Serves With Crispy Salmon?

He often pairs crispy skin salmon with seasonal vegetables like asparagus, sautéed spinach, or pea purée. For starches, mashed potatoes or a light couscous salad are popular. He finishes with a drizzle of lemon juice or a beurre blanc sauce for added brightness.