The Best Baked Salmon Recipe

Looking for a delicious and healthy dinner option? Look no further than the best baked salmon recipe. This mouthwatering dish is a crowd-pleaser that is both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home.

Our brand voice focuses on simplicity and accessibility. We believe that cooking should be enjoyable for everyone, regardless of culinary expertise. That’s why our best baked salmon recipe is designed to be uncomplicated and approachable, yet still yield impressive results.

Health Benefits of Salmon

Salmon is not only delicious but also incredibly beneficial for your health. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, this fish can help reduce inflammation, lower the risk of heart disease, and improve brain function. Additionally, salmon is a great source of high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals. By incorporating salmon into your diet, you can boost your overall health and well-being.

The Best Baked Salmon Recipe

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 2 people

Calories 468 kcal

This mouthwatering dish is a crowd-pleaser that is both easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

Kitchen equipment list

• 1 baking pan

Ingredients

  

123

• ▢ Fresh salmon fillets: Choose wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and texture.
• ▢ Lemon juice: Adds a tangy and refreshing element to the dish.
• ▢ Garlic: Enhances the flavor of the salmon.
• ▢ Herbs: A blend of herbs, such as dill, parsley, and thyme, adds depth and aroma.

Instructions 

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down.
• Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are evenly coated.
• Finely mince the garlic cloves and sprinkle them over the salmon.
• Generously season the salmon with your chosen blend of herbs, making sure to cover the entire surface.
• Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
• Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

❋ Kitchen Chaos Unlocked Tips

Tips for Choosing and Preparing Salmon

When selecting salmon for this recipe, it's important to choose high-quality fish. Look for fresh, firm fillets with a vibrant color and a mild, oceanic aroma. If possible, opt for wild-caught salmon, as it tends to have a richer flavor and firmer texture compared to farm-raised salmon.

Before baking the salmon, ensure that the fillets are properly thawed if using frozen fish. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, as this will help the seasoning adhere better to the fish and prevent it from becoming watery during baking.

Nutrition

Serving: 227 gCalories: 468 kcalProtein: 50 gFat: 28 gSaturated Fat: 5.4 gPolyunsaturated Fat: 10 gMonounsaturated Fat: 9.5 g

Keyword Salmon, Salmon recipe, The best Salmon recipe

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Variations and Add-Ons for the Baked Salmon Recipe

While our best baked salmon recipe is already delicious on its own, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are some variations and add-ons you can try:

1. Honey Glaze: Drizzle a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard over the salmon before baking for a sweet and savory twist.
2. Pesto Crust: Spread a layer of homemade or store-bought pesto on top of the salmon fillets before baking for an herbaceous and flavorful crust.
3. Citrus Zest: Grate the zest of an orange or lime over the salmon for a burst of citrusy freshness.
4. Nut Crust: Crushed nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, can be mixed with herbs and breadcrumbs to create a crunchy crust for the salmon.

Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make the best baked salmon truly your own.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

The best baked salmon can be served as the star of the meal or paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

1. Lemon Rice: Prepare a fragrant lemon rice to accompany the salmon. Simply cook jasmine rice with lemon zest, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Roast a medley of seasonal vegetables, such as asparagus, carrots, and Brussels sprouts, to serve alongside the salmon. Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast until tender.
3. Creamy Dill Sauce: Whip up a creamy dill sauce to drizzle over the baked salmon. Combine Greek yogurt, fresh dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt for a tangy and creamy topping.

These side dishes will complement the flavors of the salmon and create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions about Baking Salmon

1. How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?
2. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 145°F (63°C).
3. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
4. Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it thoroughly before baking. Pat it dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
5. Can I use different herbs for seasoning?
6. Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs to suit your taste. Some other popular choices include rosemary, basil, and tarragon.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Salmon

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat the salmon, gently warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Be careful not to overcook the salmon, as it can become dry.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal, our best baked salmon recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. The combination of fresh ingredients, simple preparation, and delightful flavors make this dish a winner. With the health benefits of salmon and the endless possibilities for variations and add-ons, you can enjoy a nutritious and delicious meal any time.

Get ready to elevate your cooking skills and impress your loved ones with this delectable dish. So, why wait? Gather the ingredients, follow the step-by-step instructions, and indulge in the best baked salmon that will leave you craving for more.

So, what are you waiting for? Try our best baked salmon recipe today and experience the flavorful goodness it brings to your table.