For many years, horror novelist Stephen King has regaled fans with his books and screenplays. Some of his well-known titles have even made their way into film adaptations. But aside from his novels, King has another shocking thing up his sleeve – his Baked Salmon recipe. Considered a controversial approach by some, his technique drastically cuts the cooking time to just 5 minutes!

It seems hard to believe that Baked Salmon can come out so perfectly in a short amount of time. If you are too busy to whip up a gourmet meal, you are in for a treat. King’s unique approach to cooking this pink fish doesn't require much effort – only a microwave.

Surprising right? A quick blast in this standard kitchen appliance is all you will need to recreate this now-famous dish. Are you intrigued? Keep reading to find out how to make your own speedy salmon at home.

Stephen King’s 3 Ingredient Baked Salmon Recipe

A conventional oven is typically the common denominator among Baked Salmon recipes. However, an idea that could have turned out into a Stephen King horror plot managed to become a blockbuster. King's method may not impress Gordon Ramsay, but it's definitely effective. It cooks the fish without ruining the taste and texture. It's a new and healthy take on "fast food."

Ingredients:

• A medium-sized salmon fillet
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice

Steps:

1. Season both sides of the salmon fillet with olive oil and lemon juice
2. Wrap the fillet in damp paper towels
3. Microwave for roughly 3 minutes
4. Serve immediately

Unlike King's incredibly detailed novels, this recipe is very straightforward. It isn't to say that his version of this classic dish is boring or bland. You can always season to taste. However, you can improve the overall experience with a creamy layer of melted cheese and Lady’s Real Choice Mayonnaise. If you are after a rich umami explosion in your mouth, add a dash or two of Knorr Liquid Seasoning to the fillet before microwaving.

Microwaved Salmon: How Safe is It?

Yes, it is absolutely safe to try this Baked Salmon hack using the microwave. According to a study published in the Journal of Turkish Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (TRJFAS), microwave cooking omega-3-rich raw seafood such as salmon is an ideal method to reduce cooking time without sacrificing its nutritional value.

However, note that the cooking might not always come out as even. Preparing your salmon via the microwave may require trial and error as you get used to this technique.

The Right Temperature Matters When Cooking Salmon

Check your microwave settings. Most microwave ovens don't allow users to input the temperature manually. So, if it's your first time cooking Baked Salmon a la King, set it in High and check it every few minutes to see if it's cooking properly. Overcooked salmon will likely be dry and tough.

Tips for Improving Stephen King’s Salmon Recipe

King's no-nonsense salmon recipe is as basic as it gets but this means creative possibilities. Here are a few ways to boost the flavor profile and make the dish uniquely your own.

Hit it with some cheese.

What dish doesn't go well with cheese? If you're looking to intensify the umami notes on your otherwise plain fillet, try using this beloved dairy as a recipe upgrade.

Here are the top 5 kinds of cheese that pair well with salmon:

• Parmesan
• Cream cheese
• Bocconcini
• Halloumi
• Mild blue cheese

Season fillets with aromatics, herbs, and spices.

Turn a boring fillet into a gourmet dish in under 60 seconds. You can amp Stephen King's no-frills recipe into a festive dinner by adding aromatics like celery, leeks, garlic, shallots, scallions, carrots, bell peppers, and even chili peppers.

For seasoning ideas, these herbs go perfectly well with baked/microwaved salmon:

• Basil
• Sage
• Parsley
• Fennel
• Dill
• Tarragon
• Thyme
• Rosemary
• Bay leaves
• Coriander leaves

Use a knob of butter.

Add garlic butter as the finishing glaze on your salmon fillet. Not only does it complete your macros, but it also introduces another layer of flavor to your fillet.

A single Tweet turned Stephen King’s Baked Salmon recipe into an instant trend. Fans of the author, cooking enthusiasts, and so many others began replicating his unorthodox method of preparing salmon. Its ease left people impressed – and better, faster cooks.

Instead of turning to unhealthy fast-food choices, try making this omega-3-rich meal at home. Serve with rice or some steamed veggies for that added nutrition and texture.

Just remember that experimenting is the key to great cooking. Whether you prioritize flavor, cost, or convenience, be willing to try new things and have fun cooking. What are you waiting for? Grab a salmon fillet and get cooking!