Baking salmon is a great option for avoiding the mess of grilling or pan frying. Try to find wild salmon from the Pacific Northwest for the best flavor and sustainability.

Preheat oven to 500F. Cut salmon fillets into pieces weighing about 6 oz each (about 2-3" across, depending on thickness). Drizzle olive oil into a heavy baking tray. Place salmon pieces skin side up on the tray to coat them in oil, then flip them over. Salt and pepper freely and place in the very hot oven.

Cook 4 to 6 minutes, depending on thickness, then check for doneness. Salmon is perfect when it is cooked ¾ through. If inside is still too undercooked, return to the oven for one minute at a time. Remember that it will continue to cook a little once removed from the oven, and you don't want to overcook truly fresh salmon!

Serve with a wedge of lemon.