The tantalizing aroma of baked salmon wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace. Imagine perfectly flaky salmon, kissed by zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and a hint of garlic—a symphony for your senses.
Every time I whip up this dish, it takes me back to family gatherings by the lake, where laughter dances with the scent of grilled fish. Baked salmon recipes oven evoke those memories and make any meal feel special.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This baked salmon recipe is straightforward yet packed with flavor, making it easy for any home cook
- The vibrant colors and aromas create an inviting presentation that will impress guests
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious
- You can easily incorporate seasonal vegetables alongside the salmon for a complete meal in one pan
I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends devoured it and demanded the recipe immediately.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Salmon Fillets: Look for fresh, vibrant fillets with no brown spots; they should smell like the ocean.
Lemon: Fresh lemons add brightness; zest them before juicing for an extra punch of flavor.
Dill: Fresh dill brings a refreshing herby note that pairs beautifully with salmon.
Garlic: Use fresh garlic for its robust flavor; minced finely to release its aromatic goodness.
Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness while keeping the fish moist.
Salt & Pepper: Don’t skimp on seasoning; they enhance all the wonderful flavors in your dish.
Vegetables (optional): Asparagus or broccoli roasted alongside creates a colorful and nutritious meal.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking dish and lightly coat it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Prepare your salmon fillets by patting them dry with paper towels; this helps achieve that perfect crispy skin. Arrange them in the baking dish, skin side down.
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended; the aroma will make your mouth water already! Drizzle this mixture over your salmon evenly—don’t be shy!
Sprinkle fresh dill generously over each fillet and add lemon slices on top for an extra citrusy zing. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss some veggies around the salmon for color and nutrition.
Bake in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. Your kitchen will smell like heaven!
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. This crucial step allows those flavors to mingle beautifully! Serve hot with additional lemon wedges on the side for that fresh burst when you take a bite.
Enjoy every flaky bite of this delicious baked salmon!
You Must Know
- This baked salmon recipe is a game-changer!
- It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for a weeknight dinner
- The aroma of lemon and herbs wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting their meal
- Plus, you can customize it to suit any palate
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the sheet, season them generously, and then bake for about 12-15 minutes until they flake easily with a fork.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices! Dill and garlic add great flavor, while a drizzle of honey can bring sweetness. You can also top the salmon with vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes for an all-in-one dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to keep it moist and tender.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Selecting fresh salmon makes all the difference; look for firm, pink fillets without any discoloration
- Avoid overcooking by checking doneness at around 12 minutes
- Pair it with a fresh salad or whole grains for a complete meal that impresses without stress!
Cooking this baked salmon recipe always brings me back to my first dinner party where everyone raved about it. I felt like a culinary superstar that night!
FAQ
How do I know when my salmon is done?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in color.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure to thaw it properly before seasoning and baking.
What should I serve with baked salmon?
Pair your baked salmon with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Baked Salmon
Baked salmon is a quick and flavorful dish that brings the essence of coastal dining to your home. Infused with zesty lemon, aromatic dill, and a hint of garlic, this recipe transforms fresh salmon fillets into a delightful centerpiece for any meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it can be easily paired with seasonal vegetables for a nutritious one-pan meal. Experience the warm embrace of this baked salmon, reminiscent of cherished family gatherings by the lake.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
- 1 cup asparagus or broccoli (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry and place them skin-side down on the prepared sheet.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper; drizzle over the salmon.
- Top with fresh dill and lemon slices; add optional vegetables around the salmon.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving with extra lemon wedges.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Coastal
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 367
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
