Friday, June 11, 2021

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How to Cook Salmon Fillet

Posted: 11 Jun 2021 05:00 PM PDT

Salmon fillets are versatile and delicious, but they cook quickly and require a bit of technique to get right. They are generally prepared by baking, broiling, grilling, pan-searing, or poaching them. Adding a marinade is a common way to infuse the fish with extra flavor. Whether you're a novice in the kitchen or an experienced cook, there's no reason to fear salmon. Skip to Step 1 to marinate your salmon, and then move on to the appropriate following method depending on how you want to cook your salmon.

Makes 4 servings

[Edit]Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets, 6-oz (170 g) each
  • 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) garlic salt
  • 3 Tbsp (45 ml) lemon juice
  • 2 Tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
  • 1 to 2 cups (250 to 500 ml) water (for poaching only)

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Marinating the Salmon Fillets

  1. Combine the garlic salt, lemon juice, and olive oil. Whisk the three ingredients together in a small bowl and transfer to a 1-gallon (4-liter) resealable plastic bag.

    Cook Salmon Fillet Step 1 Version 4.jpg
    • You can also use a glass dish covered with aluminum foil instead of the plastic bag.
  2. Coat the salmon. Place the salmon in the marinade and seal the bag. Turn the bag several times to coat all sides of the salmon.

    • If using a glass dish, turn the fillets in the marinade several times to coat all sides, then cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil.
  3. Refrigerate for 30 minutes. Place the bag with the marinade and salmon fillets in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
    Cook Salmon Fillet Step 3 Version 4.jpg
    • Salmon, like all fish, is not as dense as red meats and poultry. As a result, it does not need to be marinaded for long in order to absorb flavor.
    • Remove the salmon from the refrigerator at least 10 minutes prior to cooking. Doing so raises the temperature, allowing it to cook more evenly throughout.

[Edit]Baking

  1. Preheat the oven to 400℉ (200℃). Prepare a baking sheet with shallow sides by covering it with nonstick aluminum foil.
    Cook Salmon Fillet Step 4 Version 4.jpg
    • Coat the pan with nonstick cooking spray if you don't have aluminum foil on hand.
  2. Transfer the salmon to the prepared baking sheet. If the salmon fillets have skin on them, lay them skin-side down on the sheet.
    Cook Salmon Fillet Step 5 Version 4.jpg
    • Position the fillets in a single layer, spaced evenly.
  3. Bake for 15 minutes.[1] Place the baking sheet on the middle rack in the oven and cook the salmon until done.
    Cook Salmon Fillet Step 6 Version 4.jpg
    • When done, you should be able to easily flake the salmon apart with a fork. The middle should also be opaque.
  4. Serve at your desired temperature. Salmon fillets can be served warm out of the oven or after they have cooled to room temperature.
    Cook Salmon Fillet Step 7 Version 4.jpg

[Edit]Broiling

  1. Preheat the broiler. Allow the broiler to heat up for 5 to 10 minutes.
    Cook Salmon Fillet Step 8 Version 4.jpg
    • Most broilers only have an "on" setting, but if yours has separate "high" and "low" settings, set the broiler to high.
  2. Transfer the fillets to a broiler pan. Place the fillets on the interior rack inside the pan with the skin-side facing down, if applicable.
    Cook Salmon Fillet Step 9 Version 4.jpg
    • Arrange the fillets in a single layer and space them apart evenly.
    • If desired, coat the rack with nonstick cooking spray before putting the salmon on it. This is usually unadvised for fatty meats, but not much will drip off the salmon as it cooks. As such, using cooking spray can drastically reduce the amount of salmon that gets stuck to the broiler pan rack.
  3. Broil for 10 to 12 minutes.[2] Place the broiler pan 5 1/2 inches (14 cm) away from the top heating element and cook the salmon until done.
    Cook Salmon Fillet Step 10 Version 4.jpg
    • The salmon is done when you can effortlessly flake the fillets with a fork. The center should be opaque.
    • You can turn the salmon once during cooking to ensure even browning, but it is not necessary. Moreover, flipping salmon fillets can be difficult to do and may cause the salmon to fall apart in the oven prematurely.
  4. Serve. Broiled salmon can be served hot out of the oven or at room temperature.
    Cook Salmon Fillet Step 11 Version 4.jpg

[Edit]Grilling

  1. Preheat the grill. You can use both gas and charcoal grills to prepare salmon fillets.
    Cook Salmon Fillet Step 12 Version 4.jpg
    • If using a gas grill, preheat the grill to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (232 degrees Celsius).
    • If using a charcoal grill, spread a layer of charcoal onto the bottom of the grill and light. Allow the coals to burn and smolder for 30 minutes.
  2. Wrap the salmon fillets in aluminum foil. Place each fillet in the center of a piece of aluminum foil. Bring the sides up and fold them together, sealing the packet. Press any raised aluminum foil flat.

    • If using nonstick aluminum foil, place the salmon fillets on the nonstick side.
  3. Transfer the packets to the grill and cook for 14 to 16 minutes.[3] Flip the packets once, at the 7 or 8 minute mark, using grill tongs or a heat-proof spatula.

    • Checking the fillets for doneness may be difficult since the foil will be hot to the touch. You may need to wait until after you pull the fish from the grill. If the fillets do not flake easily with a fork or if the center is not opaque, seal the foil again and return to the grill.
  4. Let sit before serving. Allow the salmon to sit off the grill and in their foil packets at room temperature for 5 minutes, then serve.
    Cook Salmon Fillet Step 15 Version 4.jpg

[Edit]Pan-Searing

  1. Preheat a skillet or sauté pan over high heat. The pan should get hot, but it should not begin to smoke.

    Cook Salmon Fillet Step 16 Version 4.jpg
    • If desired, you can spray a thin coating of cooking spray on the pan or coat it in 1 Tbsp (15 ml) of olive oil before heating it. This step is not necessary if you marinated the salmon fillets or brushed them with olive oil, though.
  2. Place the fish in the preheated pan. Cook for 3 minutes before flipping each fillet over and cooking for an additional 3 to 4 minutes.

    • Use a fish spatula to turn the fish. Do not use tongs, since the salmon will likely break apart prematurely if handled with tongs during the cooking process.
    • The salmon is done when you can flake the center apart with a fork and when the entire fillet is no longer translucent.
  3. Allow the salmon fillets to cool slightly before servings. After removing them from the heat, you should let the fillets rest at room temperature for 5 minutes before you serve them.
    Cook Salmon Fillet Step 18 Version 3.jpg

[Edit]Poaching

  1. Bring the water to a simmer on the stovetop. Place the water in a saucepan with tall sides. Heat over medium heat until the water starts to gently simmer.

    Cook Salmon Fillet Step 19 Version 3.jpg
    • If desired, you can salt the water as it heats up. You can also add one chopped shallot or green onion and several flavorful sprigs of fresh dill, rosemary, or other herbs to the water. This is an especially common way to flavor poached salmon, and is actually more commonly used than marinating.
  2. Add the salmon fillets to the pan. If they still have skins, place the fillets skin-side down. Cover and cook for 5 to 10 minutes.[4]

    • If the salmon flakes apart easily with a fork and is no longer translucent inside, it has finished cooking.
  3. Serve warm. Remove the salmon fillets from the heat and let rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving.
    Cook Salmon Fillet Step 21 Version 3.jpg

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

  • If desired, you can prepare a second, separate batch of the marinade and use it as a sauce or glaze. To use it as a glaze, coat grilled, pan-seared, or broiled salmon halfway through the cooking process with the mixture using a pastry brush. To use it as a sauce, thicken it on the stovetop by cooking the marinade over medium-high heat until it reduces and thickens.
  • If baking or pan-searing the salmon fillets, you could also skip the marinade and coat the fish with a layer of fresh herbs, such as parsley, basil, and dill.
  • Experiment with the marinade ingredients as desired, using different combinations of oil, acid, and seasoning. Acids usually include vinegars and citrus juices, and seasonings can be dry or wet. For instance, you could create a marinade using soy sauce, rice vinegar, olive oil, and brown sugar. You could also use a vinaigrette dressing, which already combines vinegar, cooking oil, and seasonings.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

  • 1-gallon (4-liter) resealable plastic bag or glass dish
  • Nonstick aluminum foil
  • Cooking spray
  • Baking sheet
  • Broiler pan
  • Grill
  • Fish spatula
  • Skillet
  • Fork

[Edit]Related wikiHows

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

How to Hang Outdoor String Lights on a Deck

Posted: 11 Jun 2021 09:00 AM PDT

String lights suspended above a deck space creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. The soft glow of the lights is both soothing and practical, filling your outdoor space with light and a relaxing aura. Installing string lights on your deck is actually really simple. With the right materials and a little bit of effort, you'll be enjoying your hanging string lights in no time.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Hanging String Lights from Posts

  1. Hold the lights above the deck and mark where you need support posts.[1] The first thing you should do before hanging your lights is to lay them out along your deck where you want them to hang. Hold them up so you can see where they will need supports. Use a pencil or piece of painter's tape to mark where you will need to attach support posts.
    Hang Outdoor String Lights on a Deck Step 1.jpg
    • You will need to install supports roughly apart to hold up your string lights.
    • Have another person help you hold the lights up above your deck.
    • Be sure to leave a little slack in your string lights so they have a little give when you hang them.
    • Make sure the plug is near a power outlet.
  2. Use furring strips or thin wooden posts to hang your string lights. Furring strips are thin by posts that work great to hang light things like string lights. But you can use any type of wooden post that you want. Just use posts that are strong enough to withstand wind and rain. And make sure you have enough posts to support your lights![2]
    Hang Outdoor String Lights on a Deck Step 2.jpg
    • You can find furring posts and other wooden posts at your local hardware or home improvement store.
  3. Paint or stain your posts to match your deck. Since you'll be attaching the posts to your deck, you'll want them to either match or complement the color of your deck. Whether you want the posts to blend in or accent your deck, painting or staining also strengthens the posts and will make them last longer. Be sure to allow your posts to fully dry before you use them.
    Hang Outdoor String Lights on a Deck Step 3.jpg
    • Be sure to use paint or stain that is rated for outdoor use!
    • If your posts are already stained or painted but you want to change it, you can remove the paint and then restain or repaint them!
  4. Attach cup hooks to the ends of your posts. Cup hooks are small, curved hooks with a screw on one end that can be used to hang your lights from your posts. It's easier to attach them to your posts before you install them on your deck. Screw a cup hook onto the end that the lights will hang from.[3] You can use a power drill to make a hole or manually screw the hook into the post. Make sure the hook is all the way in and secure in the post.[4]
    Hang Outdoor String Lights on a Deck Step 4.jpg
    • Choose cup hooks that also complement your deck. There are gold, silver, and other color options to choose from. You can find them at your local hardware store.
  5. Install the posts onto your deck where you marked. You can either screw or nail the posts into place, just as long as they are securely attached. Measure the height of your posts so that they are mounted at the same level to hang your string lights evenly. You can either mount them on the inside of your deck or the outside, whichever you prefer.[5]
    Hang Outdoor String Lights on a Deck Step 5.jpg
    • If you're using furring strips, be sure to attach them gently. They can be fragile enough to crack under the strain of a hammer or drill.
  6. Hang your lights on the hooks mounted to the posts. With your supports mounted, it's time to hang your lights! Keep the plug near the outlet and string the lights from post to post. Let them hang a little loosely so they can give a little under the strain of the outdoor elements. Once they're attached, plug them in to enjoy them whenever you like.
    Hang Outdoor String Lights on a Deck Step 6.jpg
    • Keep the lights unplugged while you attach them.[6]

[Edit]Using Heavy Planters to Hang String Lights

  1. Get heavy planters that complement your deck.[7] Planters can be ornate and come in a variety of colors and designs, so you want to choose ones that suit your deck. You also want the same planters for a uniform look. Planters can be made out of many different materials as well, so choose materials that you like and are durable enough to last.[8]
    Hang Outdoor String Lights on a Deck Step 7.jpg
    • You can find heavy planters at home improvement stores like Home Depot or Lowe's.
    • You can also repaint your planters to match your deck.
  2. Arrange the heavy planters around the perimeter of your deck. Before you fill your planters, you need to arrange them where you will need support posts to hang your lights. Hold your lights up around your deck to see where they will need supports, and place a planter there. Install your planters on the outside of your deck so the poles are not in the way.[9]
    Hang Outdoor String Lights on a Deck Step 8.jpg
    • You can place your planters at the corners of your deck or space them out every or so.
    • Planters are both heavy and can be chipped, so try not to move them too much so you don't risk damaging them.
  3. Use wooden posts or taller to install in your planters. Because you're installing support posts that start lower, in the planters, they need to be tall enough to reach above your deck so your lights can hang. You can use furring strips or any other wooden posts as supports. Just be sure your posts are strong enough to support your lights and withstand the movement caused by wind.[10]
    Hang Outdoor String Lights on a Deck Step 9.jpg
    • You can also paint or stain your posts.
  4. Attach cup hooks to the posts before putting them in the planters. Since the posts have to be taller to reach above your deck, you need to attach your cup hooks before you put them into the planters. You also don't want to disturb the posts too much once they're in the planters. Screw in a cup hook to the end you plan to hang your lights from.
    Hang Outdoor String Lights on a Deck Step 10.jpg
    • Make sure the hooks are securely attached.
  5. Insert the posts in the planters and fill with heavy materials. After you've attached your cup hooks to your posts, put them into the planter and fill the planter with heavy materials like concrete or gravel. If you plan to keep plants in the planters, you can put gravel in the bottom of the planter and fill the rest with dirt before adding any plants.[11]
    Hang Outdoor String Lights on a Deck Step 11.jpg
    • For a strong hold, fill the bottom of the planter with wet cement, insert the post in the center, and allow the cement to fully dry.
  6. String your lights from one post to another. With your posts in the planters and the planters in place, start connecting your string lights, keeping the plug near an electrical outlet. Work your way from one post to the next, making sure the lights are securely connected to one post before moving to another. Leave a little bit of slack in the string lights so they can sway with the wind.[12]
    Hang Outdoor String Lights on a Deck Step 12.jpg
    • If you're not using wooden posts or cup hooks, you can use zip ties to attach the lights to the supports.

[Edit]Attaching String Lights Directly Onto the Deck

  1. Hold the lights along the deck and mark where you want to attach them. If you plan to attach your lights directly onto your deck, the first thing you should do is run the lights along the length of your deck, keeping the plug near an outlet. Find where the lights will need to be attached to the deck to be supported. Mark with a pencil or a piece of painter's tape where you will need to add cup hooks.[13]
    Hang Outdoor String Lights on a Deck Step 13.jpg
    • For a more "relaxed" hang in your lights, mark every so the lights can hang a little bit. If you want the lights to stay snug against the deck, you can mark every 3-5 feet.
    • You may not want much slack in your lights when attaching them directly to your deck.
  2. Install cup hooks where you marked. Take your cup hooks and screw them into the places you marked. Make sure that they are screwed all the way in. Make sure the hooks are pointed up so the string lights won't fall out of them.[14]
    Hang Outdoor String Lights on a Deck Step 14.jpg
    • Use cup hooks with colors that either blend in with or complement your deck!
  3. Attach the lights on the hooks using mini carabiners. After you've installed your cup hooks, connect your lights to them and secure them with mini carabiners for additional support. Thread the carabiner through the eye of the screw and cord of the light. Carabiners are easy to remove as well, so if you need to take down the lights, simply remove the carabiners and uninstall your string lights.[15]
    Hang Outdoor String Lights on a Deck Step 15.jpg
    • Make sure the lights are not plugged in while you attach them!

[Edit]Things You'll Need

[Edit]Hanging String Lights from Posts

  • Pencil or painter's tape
  • Hammer or drill
  • Nails or screws
  • Wooden posts
  • Cup hooks

[Edit]Using Heavy Planters to Hang String Lights

  • Tall wooden posts
  • Heavy planters
  • Cup hooks
  • Concrete, gravel, or dirt

[Edit]Attaching String Lights Directly Onto the Deck

  • Pencil or painter's tape
  • Cup hooks
  • Mini carabiners

[Edit]References

How to Choose Yoga Pants

Posted: 11 Jun 2021 01:00 AM PDT

Whether you're taking a yoga class, exercising outside, or just lounging around the house, yoga pants are a great choice of attire. With so many different styles, cuts, and patterns to choose from, it can be hard to pick the right ones! Thankfully, there are a few ways you can narrow down your search to select the perfect pair for your needs.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Pick between full length or capris.

  1. Full length ones are great for winter, while capris are better for summer. Capris pants end at your calf muscle, and full length ones stop at your ankle. If you tend to get warm easily, capri pants might be better for you; if you wear your yoga pants during the colder months, go for full length instead.[1]
    Choose Yoga Pants Step 1 Version 3.jpg
    • Your height may also play a factor in which length you choose. If you're petite, full length yoga pants might pool around your ankles. If you're super tall, capri yoga pants might end too far up your leg for your liking.

[Edit]Choose a fitted or relaxed style.

  1. Go for fitted if you like leggings, and choose relaxed if you prefer pants. If you're planning to do a lot of activity in your yoga wear, fitted pants are probably best for you, since they're skin tight. If you want to wear your yoga pants out and about, go for relaxed ones instead.[2]
    Choose Yoga Pants Step 2 Version 4.jpg
    • As styles go in and out of fashion, you may find it more difficult to get your hands on a certain type of style. A few years ago, relaxed yoga pants were all the rage; nowadays, the fitted version is more popular.

[Edit]Pick between high-waisted or mid-rise.

  1. If you're going for pants with structure, choose high waisted ones. If you're looking more for comfort, consider going for mid-rise instead. Mid-rise pants do have a tendency to fall down easily, so they aren't great for physical activities.[3]
    Choose Yoga Pants Step 3 Version 3.jpg
    • You might be able to find yoga pants with a drawstring waist, too. However, these aren't great for actual yoga, since the knot can bunch up and be painful.

[Edit]Choose cotton or synthetic fabric.

  1. Go with synthetic fabrics if breathability is your number one concern. If you don't want to deal with pilling (the small fibrous pills that happen after washing), go with cotton yoga pants instead. Keep in mind, though, that cotton yoga pants are usually warmer, so they might not be great for hot yoga.[4]
    Choose Yoga Pants Step 4 Version 4.jpg
    • Over time, all fabrics will wear with friction. The formation of pills—tiny knots of loose fibers—occurs in both cotton and synthetic fabrics. However, pilling is typically more pronounced in synthetic fabrics since small plastic fibers can anchor pills more than cotton fibers.
    • Some brands are now coming out with a new type of fabric: bamboo. These yoga pants are soft and comfortable, but they tend to pill faster than cotton or synthetic blends.

[Edit]Decide between thick or thin yoga pants.

  1. Go for thin yoga pants if you plan on doing a lot of exercising in them. A thinner material will breathe much better and help wick moisture away. If you want to wear your yoga pants out and about, try going for a thicker material for a little extra coverage. [5]
    Choose Yoga Pants Step 5 Version 3.jpg

[Edit]Pick out the stretch that you need.

  1. Choose stretchy yoga pants for ultimate comfort. If you like yoga pants that stay form fitting and give you a bit of structure, choose ones that are less stretchy. Cotton yoga pants are usually stretchier, while synthetic blends might be a little more tight.[6]
    Choose Yoga Pants Step 6 Version 4.jpg
    • The best way to test stretch is to try your yoga pants on first.

[Edit]Select a color or print.

  1. Lighter colors tend to show more sweat than darker colors. If you're worried about sweat marks, try going for a dark blue or black pair of yoga pants. Or, pick out a fun print or pattern to disguise any sweat that may show up.[7]
    Choose Yoga Pants Step 7 Version 4.jpg
    • Black is the standard color for yoga pants since it's so easy to match with tops and shoes. However, you can always mix it up by going for a bright color or a busy print.

[Edit]Look for gusset in the crotch area.

  1. If you don't want pressure in your groin, find pants with a gusset. Instead of one long seam in the crotch, yoga pants made with gussets have a seam in a diamond or triangular shape. If you plan on doing a lot of activity in your yoga pants, look for ones with a gusset so they're more comfortable for long-term wear.[8]
    Choose Yoga Pants Step 8 Version 2.jpg
    • Most higher end yoga pants and athletic wear come with gussets.

[Edit]Find yoga pants with pockets.

  1. Will you be carrying anything with you in your yoga pants? Some brands come with small pockets that are perfect for lip balm, keys, or change. If you plan on going out and about a lot and you don't want to bring a bag or a purse, look for yoga pants with this feature.[9]
    Choose Yoga Pants Step 9 Version 2.jpg
    • Doing actual yoga with a bunch of stuff in your pockets probably isn't comfortable. If you can, try to empty your pockets before class so you can bend and move unhindered.

[Edit]Avoid yoga pants with a lot of extras.

  1. You might find a pair of yoga pants with zippers, clasps, or even bows. If you plan on doing a lot of working out in your yoga pants, stick to simple, clean designs without things that could snag on your shirt or shoes. If you want yoga pants to lounge in, a zipper or two can't hurt![10]
    Choose Yoga Pants Step 10 Version 2.jpg
    • If you plan on doing yoga in your yoga pants, avoid any kind of sparkle or rhinestone decorations, too. They'll probably just fall off and make a mess as you work out.

[Edit]Research the production of the yoga pants.

  1. If you're looking for ethically-made clothing, you might consider this. Before you make a purchase, check out the brand and see if you can find out where they make their clothing, where the materials come from, and what kind of working conditions the laborers are subjected to. If you can't find the info or it's ambiguous, there's a good chance the yoga pants aren't ethically made.[11]
    Choose Yoga Pants Step 11 Version 2.jpg

[Edit]Tips

  • Yoga pants vary in price depending on the quality and the brand. In general, you can find a decent pair for around $30.

[Edit]Related wikiHows

[Edit]References

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