Baked salmon is a delicious and healthy dish that is easy to prepare. It is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its tender texture and rich flavor, it’s sure to please everyone at your table.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe for baked salmon is not only simple but also packed with nutrients. Salmon is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. The combination of butter, garlic, and lemon enhances the natural flavor of the fish, making it more enjoyable. Plus, you can have it ready in less than 30 minutes!
How to Make Baked Salmon
Ingredients:
- 4 fillets salmon (6 oz each) – Pat completely dry
- 3 tbsp butter, melted – More makes it extra moist
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 whole lemon, juiced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill – Or 1 tsp dried
- Salt & pepper – To taste
- 4 slices lemon – For topping
- 1 tbsp honey – Sweet glaze
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard – More tang
- 1/2 tsp paprika – Color + flavor
- Pinch red pepper flakes – Heat
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley – Garnish
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment.
- Pat salmon completely dry and place skin-side down. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, and dill.
- Brush the mixture over salmon fillets.
- Top each fillet with a lemon slice.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until salmon flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Let the salmon rest for 2 minutes. Drizzle with any leftover butter mixture, garnish with herbs, and serve hot.
How to Serve Baked Salmon
Baked salmon can be served with a variety of sides. Consider pairing it with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. A wedge of lemon on the side adds a nice touch. Enjoy it hot right out of the oven for the best taste.
How to Store Baked Salmon
If you have leftovers, let the salmon cool down and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be eaten within 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave, but be careful not to overcook it.
Tips to Make Baked Salmon
- Make sure to pat the salmon dry before seasoning to help it crisp up.
- Use fresh herbs when possible for better flavor.
- For more flavor, marinate the salmon for 30 minutes before baking.
- If possible, choose wild-caught salmon for the best taste and health benefits.
Variation
You can customize the flavors by adding different herbs and spices. Try using thyme or rosemary instead of dill. You can also add a splash of white wine for a more complex flavor.
FAQs
1. How do I know when the salmon is done?
Salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
2. Can I cook frozen salmon?
Yes, but it may take slightly longer. Be sure to adjust your cooking time accordingly.
3. What can I serve with baked salmon?
Baked salmon pairs well with vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. A light sauce or dressing can also enhance the dish.
Baked Salmon
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A delicious and healthy baked salmon recipe that’s easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 fillets salmon (6 oz each) – Pat completely dry
- 3 tbsp butter, melted – More makes it extra moist
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 whole lemon, juiced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill – Or 1 tsp dried
- Salt & pepper – To taste
- 4 slices lemon – For topping
- 1 tbsp honey – Sweet glaze
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard – More tang
- 1/2 tsp paprika – Color + flavor
- Pinch red pepper flakes – Heat
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley – Garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment.
- Pat salmon completely dry and place skin-side down. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, and dill.
- Brush the mixture over salmon fillets.
- Top each fillet with a lemon slice.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until salmon flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Let the salmon rest for 2 minutes. Drizzle with any leftover butter mixture, garnish with herbs, and serve hot.
Notes
For best flavor, use fresh herbs and consider marinating the salmon before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 49g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
