salmon recipes baked

Craving a healthy, flavorful dinner? Discover the ease and elegance of baked salmon—a dish that brings together tender, flaky fish with zesty herbs and bright citrus.

Baked salmon is a weeknight favorite for good reason: it’s quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, and endlessly customizable. 

Ingredients List

Creating a mouthwatering baked salmon requires just a handful of fresh, vibrant ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

Salmon and Marinade Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper (just a pinch if using finely ground black pepper)
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning blend (or herbs de Provence, or ¼ teaspoon each dried thyme, parsley, oregano, and basil)
• 1 medium lemon

Required Kitchen Tools

Having the right tools on hand makes preparing baked salmon a breeze. Here are the essentials you’ll need:

1. Baking Sheet or Pan: A large, rimmed baking sheet or shallow baking dish to hold the salmon fillets.
2. Parchment Paper or Foil: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
3. Small Mixing Bowl: To combine the olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
4. Basting Brush or Spoon: For spreading the marinade evenly over the salmon.
5. Sharp Knife: For slicing the lemon and mincing garlic.
6. Measuring Spoons: To ensure accurate seasoning.

With these simple tools and ingredients, you’re ready to create a delicious, restaurant-quality baked salmon right at home.

Salmon Preparation

Preparing your salmon fillets properly is the key to achieving a moist, flavorful result. Follow these steps to ensure your fish is perfectly seasoned and ready for the oven.

Prepping the Salmon

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet or shallow baking dish with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Arrange the Fillets:
   Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Pat them dry with a paper towel to help the seasonings adhere and to promote even cooking.
3. Season Generously:
   Sprinkle the fillets with salt and cracked black pepper, making sure to season both the tops and sides for maximum flavor.

Making the Marinade

1. Mix the Marinade:
   In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, Italian herb seasoning (or your chosen blend of dried herbs), and the juice of half a lemon. Stir well to blend the flavors.
2. Coat the Salmon:
   Using a spoon or basting brush, spread the marinade evenly over the tops and sides of each salmon fillet. Make sure every surface is coated so the fish stays moist and flavorful as it bakes.
3. Add Lemon Slices:
   Thinly slice the remaining half of the lemon and place a slice on top of each fillet. This not only adds a burst of citrus flavor but also creates a beautiful presentation.

With your salmon fillets prepped and marinated, you’re ready to move on to baking!

Baking the Salmon

Baking salmon is a simple process, but a few key tips will ensure your fish turns out perfectly tender and flaky every time.

Baking Instructions

1. Bake the Salmon:
   Place the prepared baking sheet with the marinated salmon fillets into the preheated oven. Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The salmon is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
2. Optional Broil for Finish:
   For a slightly crispier top, switch your oven to broil for the last 1–2 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on the salmon to prevent burning.
3. Check for Doneness:
   The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part. If you don’t have a thermometer, simply use a fork to gently pull apart the flesh—it should separate easily and look moist, not raw.

Garnishing and Serving

Once the salmon is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately, either as a main course or atop a fresh salad, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Serving and Storage

A beautifully baked salmon deserves thoughtful presentation and proper storage to make the most of your meal.

Serving Suggestions

Baked salmon is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious ways to serve your salmon:

• With Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted asparagus, broccoli, or carrots for a colorful, nutritious plate.
• Over Rice or Quinoa: Place the salmon fillet atop a bed of fluffy rice, quinoa, or couscous to soak up the flavorful juices.
• With a Fresh Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.
• Topped with Extra Lemon: Offer extra lemon wedges on the side for those who love a bright citrus finish.

Storage Instructions

To keep your baked salmon fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigeration:
  Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Enjoy cold over salads or gently reheat in the oven at a low temperature to avoid drying out the fish.
• Freezing:
  If you’d like to keep your salmon longer, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Mastering baked salmon recipes opens up a world of healthy, flavorful possibilities. With just a few fresh ingredients and simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.

Remember to serve it with your favorite sides and store any leftovers properly to enjoy the taste of this delicious fish for days to come.

So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and savor the simplicity and elegance of baked salmon tonight!