So, does salmon have to be cooked all the way through? No—but be smart about it. If the salmon is fresh, frozen, or from a trusted source, you can safely rock a medium-rare center. If it’s mystery fish from a sketchy cooler, cook it like you’re afraid of it.
Your kitchen, your rules. But the universal truth is: nobody ever regretted a perfectly cooked, slightly underdone salmon. Overcooked salmon, however, has sent many to the arms of sad, dry chicken. Choose wisely.
And if all else fails, order sushi. That’s always cooked all the way through? Nope. But it’s frozen, safe, and delicious. Now go forth, grab your fillet, and cook with confidence—or at least with a good thermometer and a little humor.