Baked Salmon Recipe: Easy, Flavorful, and Healthy

Salmon, a beloved oily fish known for its rich flavor and numerous health benefits, can be transformed into a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. In this blog, we'll dive into a simple yet exquisite home-cooked baked salmon recipe that is both easy to make and incredibly flavorful. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you to bake salmon that's perfectly moist, tender, and bursting with taste.

Ingredients for Baked Salmon

To create this mouthwatering salmon dish, you’ll need:

• 4 salmon fillets, about 6 oz (170g) each
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1 tsp dried dill (or fresh if available)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Preparation for Baking

Here’s how to prepare your salmon for baking:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it.
3. Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
4. Brush both sides of the salmon with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper.
5. Spread the minced garlic over the top of each fillet.
6. Place lemon slices on top of each fillet and sprinkle with dill.
7. Arrange the fillets on the baking sheet, skin side down.

Baking the Salmon

Follow these steps to bake your salmon:

1. Transfer the salmon to the preheated oven.
2. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork but is still moist.
3. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some ideas to serve with your perfectly baked salmon:

• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus.
• Salad: A fresh arugula or spinach salad with lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully.
• Rice: A side of jasmine or brown rice complements the salmon well.
• Quinoa: For a health-conscious choice, opt for a quinoa salad.

Notes on Nutrition

Salmon is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients:

• High in omega-3 fatty acids which support heart and brain health.
• Rich in protein, making it a filling meal choice.
• A good source of vitamins D and B12, and minerals like selenium and potassium.

👩‍🍳 Note: Remember, the salmon's doneness can be checked by looking for an opaque center or by taking the internal temperature. It should reach about 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked salmon.

🍋 Note: Fresh lemon juice adds a vibrant zing to the salmon, enhancing its flavors significantly.

Wrapping up this culinary journey, our easy baked salmon recipe shows how simple ingredients can create an impressive, healthy, and flavorful meal. It's a dish that's sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire, not only for its taste but for the convenience it brings. Whether you're aiming for a quick weeknight dinner or looking to impress at a dinner party, this recipe does the trick without requiring hours in the kitchen. By following these straightforward steps, you can enjoy a moist, flavorful piece of salmon that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, enhancing its versatility on any occasion.

How do I know when salmon is done?

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Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork or reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Ensure it’s not overcooked to maintain its moisture and tenderness.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

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Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Thaw it overnight in the fridge, pat it dry, and then proceed with the recipe as directed. The key is to ensure the salmon is completely thawed to avoid any excess moisture that could affect the cooking process.

What other herbs can I use with salmon?

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Salmon is incredibly versatile. Apart from dill, you can use herbs like thyme, rosemary, tarragon, or even a pinch of basil for different flavor profiles. Each herb adds its unique touch to the dish.

Is salmon skin edible, and should I keep it on during baking?

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The skin of salmon is edible and contains a good amount of omega-3s. However, whether to keep it on or not depends on personal taste. If you bake it with the skin, it can provide additional flavor and moisture to the fillet, though most people prefer to remove it before eating.

Can this recipe be adapted for grilling?

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Absolutely! The seasoning and preparation steps can remain the same. Grill the salmon on medium heat, skin side down, for about 6-8 minutes or until you achieve the desired doneness. You might need to adjust the time based on the heat of your grill.