The thorax, abdomen, and pelvis are (together with the back) parts of the trunk. The thoracic and abdominal cavities are separated from each other by the diaphragm. The abdominal cavity proper and the true pelvic cavity are continuous across the plane of the pelvic inlet, or brim (see fig. 31-3).
Preheat oven to 350. Heat a medium ovenproof nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil. Pat salmon dry with paper towels. Season the flesh-side of the salmon with salt. When the oil is hot, add salmon skin-side down. Sear until the skin is golden brown and crispy, about 5 minutes. Turn and transfer to oven and cook until a cake tester or tip of a paring knife is just warm to the touch when inserted into the middle of the salmon; about 5 minutes for medium-rare and 9 minutes for fully cooked through.
Cooking salmon in the oven can be tricky -- the key is how long to bake it. Knowing how to cook salmon in the oven is essential to mastering basic cooking techniques for weekday meals. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F for fillets, or 350 degrees F for a dressed fish. Fillets can be baked at a lower temperature, if desired, with an increase in cooking time. Bake salmon fillets or steaks, uncovered, for 4 to 6 minutes per 1/2-inch thickness. Bake a dressed salmon for 6 to 9 minutes per 8 ounces of fish. To test for doneness, insert a fork and gently twist. The salmon is done as soon as it begins to flake and becomes opaque.