Baked Salmon Recipe: A Delicious and Healthy Meal
Are you looking for a simple yet elegant recipe that's both healthy and delicious? Look no further than this baked salmon recipe! This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and it's surprisingly easy to make. With minimal ingredients and cleanup, you'll be enjoying a flavorful and nutritious meal in no time.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe calls for simple, readily available ingredients. You probably already have most of them in your pantry!
- 1.5 lbs Salmon Fillet (skin on or off, your preference!): Choose a high-quality salmon fillet for the best flavor and texture.
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil: Provides healthy fats and helps the salmon cook evenly.
- 1 tsp Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the salmon.
- ½ tsp Black Pepper: Adds a subtle spice and complements the salmon.
- ½ tsp Garlic Powder: A touch of garlic adds depth of flavor.
- ½ tsp Lemon Pepper: A zesty kick that balances the richness of the salmon. (Optional, but recommended!)
- ½ Lemon, sliced: Adds brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the salmon.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps for perfectly baked salmon every time!
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Place the salmon fillet on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and then generously season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and lemon pepper. Rub the seasoning into the salmon to ensure even distribution.
Step 3: Add Lemon Slices
Arrange the lemon slices on top of the salmon. This adds both flavor and visual appeal.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
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. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part should register 145°F (63°C).
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
This baked salmon is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair your salmon with roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for a complete and healthy meal.
- Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the salmon beautifully.
- Quinoa or Rice: Serve the salmon over a bed of quinoa or rice for added carbohydrates.
- Lemon-Dill Sauce: A simple lemon-dill sauce adds a bright and herbaceous touch.
Tips for Baking the Perfect Salmon:
- Don't overcook it! Overcooked salmon is dry and tough. Start checking for doneness around 12 minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure your salmon is cooked through.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add more or less of any spice to suit your preferences.
This baked salmon recipe is a fantastic option for a healthy and delicious weeknight meal. It's easy to customize to your liking and requires minimal cleanup. Enjoy!
