The aroma of baked salmon wafts through the kitchen like a promise of culinary delight. Picture this: tender fillets wrapped in herbs and the zest of lemon, all nestled together for a cozy evening meal that feels both special and effortless.
Every time I bake salmon, I can’t help but think back to family gatherings where my dad would take center stage at the grill. Now I’ve swapped the outdoor flames for my trusty oven but still capture that beloved flavor. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a fancy holiday feast, this dish is always a hit!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful baked salmon recipe requires minimal prep time, allowing you to enjoy more moments with family
- The flavor combination of citrus and herbs is simply unbeatable
- Its eye-catching presentation makes it an impressive dish for guests
- Versatile enough to pair with various sides or salads!
I remember my sister’s face the first time I served this dish—she practically swooned over the flaky texture and zesty flavor!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Salmon Fillets: Choose skin-on fillets for added flavor; they cook evenly and stay moist.
- Lemon Slices: Fresh lemon slices enhance flavor; opt for juicy lemons for maximum zing!
- Fresh Herbs: Dill or parsley works wonders; fresh herbs elevate the aroma and taste remarkably.
- Olive Oil: Quality olive oil adds richness; use extra virgin for the best flavor experience.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic brings depth; mince finely to release its robust flavor profile.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; don’t skimp on these as they enhance every bite!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven: First things first—preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking while you prepare everything else.
Prepare your baking dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking. You want them to slide right out like dancers off the stage.
Season the salmon: Place your fresh salmon fillets skin-side down in the dish. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. The seasoning should feel almost like a warm hug.
Add garlic and herbs: Mince garlic and scatter it over the fillets alongside your chosen fresh herbs. The smell will have you salivating before it even hits the oven!
Top with lemon slices: Lay those bright lemon slices over each fillet like little sunshine hats. They’ll infuse moisture while roasting—yum!
Bake it up: Slide your baking dish into the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it; no one likes dry salmon!
Serve it fresh: Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy those fragrant aromas wafting through your kitchen as you plate up this masterpiece!
And there you have it—baked salmon that’s not just delicious but also becomes an instant crowd-pleaser at any table!
You Must Know
- Baked salmon is a delightful dish that’s not only healthy but also quick to prepare
- The aroma of the fish baking fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere
- This recipe allows for flexibility, making it perfect for any occasion or last-minute dinner plans
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfectly baked salmon, start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While it warms up, season your salmon fillets and prepare your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with toppings like lemon slices, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of honey. Adding these personal touches can elevate the flavors and give each dish a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover baked salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, preserving its delicious texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When seasoning salmon, remember less is more; let its natural flavor shine through
- For extra crispiness, broil it for the last two minutes of baking
- Always check for doneness using a fork; it should flake easily but remain moist
Baking my first salmon was an adventure! I forgot about it while chatting with friends and ended up with a slightly crispy masterpiece that they raved about. Sometimes mistakes lead to great discoveries!
FAQ
How long does it take to bake salmon?
Baking salmon typically takes about 12-15 minutes at 400°F depending on thickness.
What temperature should baked salmon reach?
Salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption.
Can I bake frozen salmon?
Yes, you can bake frozen salmon; just increase cooking time by 5-10 minutes.
Delicious Baked Salmon
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked salmon is a quick, healthy dish bursting with flavor. Juicy fillets drizzled with olive oil and topped with zesty lemon and fresh herbs make for an impressive meal.
Ingredients
- 4 skin-on salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Fresh dill or parsley, to taste
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the dish; drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Scatter minced garlic and fresh herbs over the fillets.
- Top with lemon slices.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (170g)
- Calories: 367
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
