Standard Serving Size: The 6-Ounce Rule
When planning a main course, a reliable rule of thumb is to calculate based on a 6-ounce (about 170g) portion per person. For a family of four, this means you would need approximately 24 ounces, or 1.5 pounds, of salmon in total. This quantity assumes that the salmon is the primary protein and is served alongside side dishes like vegetables, rice, or potatoes.
Considerations for Different Appetites and Meals
While 6 ounces is a great starting point, several factors can influence the ideal amount of salmon to purchase. Considering these variables will help prevent both shortages and excessive leftovers.
For Larger Appetites or Leftovers: If your guests are particularly hungry, or you want to ensure there are leftovers, it's wise to increase the portion size to 8 ounces (about 227g) per person. For four people, this would mean buying a total of 32 ounces, or 2 pounds, of salmon.
For Lighter Meals or Starters: If the salmon is being served as a smaller component of a multi-course meal, or as an appetizer, you can scale back the portion size. Aim for 3 to 4 ounces per person, which is a total of 12 to 16 ounces (0.75 to 1 pound) for four people.
Meal with Heavier Sides: The type of sides you serve can also impact the amount of salmon needed. A pasta side dish, for example, might allow for a slightly smaller salmon portion, perhaps a quarter-pound per person, especially if the pasta is rich and filling. For lighter sides like a simple salad, a larger salmon portion is more appropriate.
Buying Options: Fillets vs. Whole Side
When shopping for salmon, you generally have two choices: individual fillets or a single, large side of salmon. Each option has its own benefits.
Buying Individual Fillets:
- Pros: Convenient and pre-portioned, requiring minimal preparation before cooking. Easy to find at most grocery stores.
- Cons: Can be more expensive per pound than a whole side. Portion sizes can vary between fillets, leading to uneven cooking times.
Buying a Whole Side of Salmon:
- Pros: Often more cost-effective. You can cut uniform portions, ensuring even cooking. Ideal for cooking a whole side in the oven for a beautiful presentation.
- Cons: Requires additional preparation to cut and de-bone. A center-cut fillet is recommended for even thickness.
How to Buy a Whole Side for 4 People
For a single-side preparation, such as roasting, aim for a piece that weighs between 1.5 to 2 pounds. This will give you enough flexibility to cut four roughly equal 6- to 8-ounce portions. Cutting the fillets yourself ensures consistency, which is particularly important for getting the desired internal temperature across all servings.
| Portion Goal | Per Person (ounces) | For 4 People (total ounces) | For 4 People (total pounds) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Main Course | 6 oz | 24 oz | 1.5 lbs |
| Generous Main Course | 8 oz | 32 oz | 2 lbs |
| Light Meal or Starter | 3-4 oz | 12-16 oz | 0.75-1 lbs |
Tips for Cooking for Four People
- Even Cooking: If using individual fillets, try to select pieces that are of similar thickness to ensure they cook evenly. If cooking a whole side, tucking thinner parts under the thicker section can help it cook uniformly. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Preparation: Simple seasoning can go a long way with quality salmon. Ingredients like olive oil, salt, pepper, lemon, and dill are classic choices. For a more adventurous meal, try a marinade using soy sauce, honey, and garlic.
- Versatility: Salmon can be cooked in various ways to suit your preference. Pan-searing creates a crispy skin, while baking or roasting offers an easy, hands-off approach. It can also be grilled or poached, providing even more dinner options.
Conclusion
For a standard main course for four people, buying 1.5 to 2 pounds of salmon is the ideal range, with 6 to 8 ounces per person being a solid guideline. By considering the appetites of your diners and the type of meal, you can easily adjust the quantity. Choosing between fillets or a whole side depends on your budget and desire for convenience, but both offer a delicious result. Ultimately, a little bit of planning ensures a perfectly portioned and satisfying salmon dinner for everyone. For more seafood tips and portioning advice, visit the Fulton Fish Market guide.
