Brown Sugar and Coconut Body Scrub Exfoliates 
Get The Product!Oven baked salmon is like a warm hug on a plate—comforting, flavorful, and oh-so-easy to make. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as the tender fish bakes alongside vibrant vegetables, filling your home with mouthwatering goodness. It’s not just a dish; it’s a culinary experience that whisks you away to a cozy seaside dinner.
Growing up, my family had a tradition of Friday night dinners featuring fish. My dad would pull out his secret spice mix while we all gathered around the table in eager anticipation. Little did I know those evenings would inspire my love for cooking. Now, I can’t help but smile when I whip up this oven baked salmon and reminisce about those cherished moments.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This oven baked salmon recipe offers effortless preparation while delivering an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving more
- The stunning presentation will wow your guests or family alike
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with any side dish you have on hand
I remember serving this dish at a family gathering and watching as everyone went back for seconds (and thirds). The smiles said it all.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Salmon Fillets: Fresh fillets are best; look for firm flesh and a vibrant color for maximum flavor.
- Olive Oil: Choose extra virgin olive oil for rich taste; it helps keep the salmon moist while cooking.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish; bottled juice just doesn’t cut it.
- Garlic Powder: This adds depth of flavor; you can also use fresh garlic if you’re feeling fancy.
- Dill or Parsley: Fresh herbs elevate the dish beautifully; choose your favorite or use both.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors; don’t skimp on these.
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 temperature allows the salmon to cook evenly without drying out.
Prepare your baking dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or olive oil. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after enjoying your meal.
Season the salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, pepper, and herbs generously over the top.
Bake until flaky: Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when done—this means it’s ready.
Serve and enjoy: Once out of the oven, let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Plate with your favorite sides like roasted veggies or rice for a complete meal.
Optional garnish: For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with additional herbs or lemon slices before serving. It adds color and freshness that impresses guests.
This oven baked salmon is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding. With every bite bursting with flavor and freshness, it’s bound to become one of your go-to weeknight meals. Enjoy cooking.
You Must Know
- Oven baked salmon is a simple yet elegant dish that requires minimal ingredients
- The aroma fills the kitchen, making it feel like a gourmet restaurant
- With the right techniques, you can achieve a perfectly flaky and flavorful salmon every time
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfectly cooked oven baked salmon, start with preheating your oven to 400°F. Season your salmon fillets while the oven heats up, then bake for about 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your oven baked salmon with various seasonings like dill, garlic, or even a splash of lemon juice. Spice blends or marinades can elevate the flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover oven baked salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or briefly in the oven at 350°F.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When using fresh herbs, chop them finely for more flavor infusion
- Avoid overcooking salmon by checking its doneness with a fork; it should flake easily
- Experiment with sides like roasted veggies to complement your dish beautifully
I remember the first time I made oven baked salmon for friends; they raved about how restaurant-quality it was. That encouragement inspired me to keep perfecting my technique.
FAQ
How do I know when my oven baked salmon is done?
Check if the fish flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, just thaw it first and adjust cooking time if needed.
What are good side dishes for oven baked salmon?
Consider pairing it with quinoa, asparagus, or a fresh salad for balance.
Oven Baked Salmon
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Oven Baked Salmon is an easy and delightful dish that elevates weeknight dinners to gourmet status. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up succulent salmon fillets with a perfectly crispy exterior and tender interior. This versatile recipe allows for customization with your favorite herbs and spices, making it a perfect fit for any palate. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, this salmon dish not only supports heart health but also provides essential nutrients for overall well-being. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to create a complete meal that will impress both family and guests alike. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, Oven Baked Salmon is sure to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (skin-on)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over each fillet, then season generously with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (170g)
- Calories: 367
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
