There’s something undeniably magical about a perfectly baked salmon. Imagine tender, flaky fish that practically melts in your mouth, infused with a medley of zesty herbs and spices. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone gathering around the table, eagerly anticipating their first bite of this delightful dish.
The beauty of this baked salmon recipe is that it’s not just for fancy dinner parties; it’s perfect for cozy weeknights or a casual get-together with friends. I still remember the first time I made this dish for my family—my brother was convinced I had brought home a five-star restaurant chef. Spoiler alert: it was just me and my trusty oven!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This baked salmon recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans
- The flavor profile is fresh and vibrant, combining zesty lemon and aromatic herbs that elevate the taste to new heights
- Visually, it presents beautifully with a golden crust and vibrant green garnish, sure to impress your guests
- Versatile enough to pair with various side dishes, it’s a win-win for every occasion!
I once served this baked salmon recipe at a family gathering, and my cousin couldn’t stop raving about the flavors—it was a hit!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Salmon Fillets: Look for bright pink fillets with no dark spots; they should smell like the ocean.
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Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best; it adds brightness that bottled juice just can’t match.
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Dill: Fresh dill brings an incredible aroma; dried dill can work in a pinch but won’t be as vibrant.
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Garlic Cloves: Minced garlic infuses the salmon with flavor; use fresh cloves for maximum punch.
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Olive Oil: Quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall taste; don’t skimp on this ingredient!
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all flavors; adjust to taste based on personal preference.
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Lemon Slices: These not only add flavor but also make the dish visually appealing when garnished.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that deliciously crispy exterior.
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Nobody wants their masterpiece stuck to the pan!
Season the Salmon: Place your fresh salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle lemon juice over them and sprinkle generously with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and chopped dill.
Add Lemon Slices : Lay lemon slices atop each fillet—this not only adds flavor but makes it look gourmet too! It’s like giving your salmon a stylish hat.
Bake to Perfection : Pop your baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork—time flies when you’re enjoying lovely aromas!
Serve and Enjoy : Once done, remove from the oven and serve immediately garnished with additional dill if desired. Pair it with your favorite sides and watch everyone enjoy!
This baked salmon recipe is bound to become one of your go-to dishes! Enjoy the compliments while savoring every bite of this flavorful piece of heaven.
Content:
Fresh salmon gives the best flavor; always opt for wild-caught when possible. I once made the mistake of using frozen salmon, and let’s just say, it tasted like regret.
Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Trust me, you don’t want dry salmon; it’s like chewing on cardboard. A perfect 145°F ensures it’s flaky and moist.
Let your salmon rest before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute. I learned this the hard way when eager guests devoured my first batch too quickly.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F while preparing your salmon. Season it generously before placing it in a lined baking dish. Bake for about 15-20 minutes for perfectly cooked fish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out seasonings or add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a personal flair. You can also drizzle lemon juice or honey for an extra layer of flavor that will impress everyone.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover baked salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 275°F for about 10 minutes to maintain its moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use parchment paper; it prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze
- Letting your salmon rest enhances flavor and texture, making each bite a delight
- Remember, presentation matters—garnish with lemon slices or herbs for that ‘wow’ factor!
Cooking this baked salmon recipe reminds me of a family gathering where everyone raved about how moist and flavorful my dish turned out. Their compliments are still my favorite seasoning!
FAQ
What is the best way to season baked salmon?
Use salt, pepper, garlic powder, and fresh herbs for maximum flavor enhancement.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
While fresh is best, thawed frozen salmon can work if properly seasoned.
How do I know when my salmon is done cooking?
It should reach an internal temperature of 145°F for optimal flakiness and moisture retention.
Baked Salmon
Baked salmon is a delightful dish that combines tender, flaky fish with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs. This easy-to-make recipe transforms your weeknight dinner into a gourmet experience, impressing family and friends alike. With its vibrant presentation and delicious flavors, it’s no wonder this baked salmon has become a favorite at gatherings. Perfectly cooked salmon pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, making it versatile for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 fresh salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon (sliced)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Place salmon fillets in the dish and drizzle with lemon juice.
- Season generously with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and chopped dill.
- Top each fillet with lemon slices for added flavor and appeal.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional dill if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 367
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
