Amazing Baked Salmon Recipe: Flaky, Moist, and Flavorful
Are you looking for a simple yet incredibly delicious baked salmon recipe? Look no further! This recipe delivers a perfectly flaky, moist, and flavorful salmon every single time. It's easy to customize to your taste preferences and requires minimal cleanup, making it a weeknight winner. Prepare to impress yourself and your family with this restaurant-quality dish!
What Makes This Baked Salmon Recipe Amazing?
This recipe stands out because it focuses on simplicity and highlighting the natural flavor of the salmon. We avoid overly complicated techniques and instead focus on a few key elements:
Perfectly Seasoned:
We use a simple blend of herbs and spices that complements the salmon beautifully without overpowering its delicate taste. Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings!
Moist and Flaky Texture:
The baking method ensures the salmon remains incredibly moist and flaky, avoiding dryness often associated with overcooked salmon.
Quick and Easy:
This recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
Versatile and Customizable:
This recipe is incredibly versatile! You can easily adapt it to your liking by adding different vegetables, herbs, or sauces.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs Salmon Fillet (skin on or off, your preference): Choose a high-quality salmon fillet for the best flavor.
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil: Helps to keep the salmon moist and adds a subtle flavor.
- 1 tsp Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the salmon.
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
- 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder: A classic flavor pairing with salmon.
- 1/4 tsp Onion Powder: Adds depth of flavor.
- 1/4 tsp Dried Dill: Complements the richness of the salmon.
- 1/4 tsp Dried Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
- Lemon Wedges (optional): Adds a burst of citrusy freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the salmon cooks evenly.
- Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels. This helps it crisp up slightly.
- Season the Salmon: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, and parsley. Rub this mixture evenly over the salmon fillet.
- Bake the Salmon: Place the seasoned salmon fillet on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillet.
- Serve: Serve immediately with lemon wedges, if desired.
Tips for Perfect Baked Salmon:
- Don't overcook the salmon! Overcooked salmon is dry and tough. Start checking for doneness around the 12-minute mark.
- Use a meat thermometer: For foolproof results, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to customize the flavor. Consider paprika, cayenne pepper, or even a sprinkle of brown sugar.
- Add vegetables: Roast asparagus, broccoli, or green beans alongside the salmon for a complete and healthy meal.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts complement the salmon perfectly.
- Pair with a simple salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
- Serve with quinoa or rice: These grains provide a healthy and filling base for your meal.
This amazing baked salmon recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity, deliciousness, and versatility make it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy!
