Baked Salmon Recipe: Easy, Delicious, and Healthy
Are you looking for a quick, easy, and healthy dinner recipe? Look no further! This baked salmon recipe is perfect for weeknights and requires minimal cleanup. It's packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a delicious and satisfying meal for the whole family. This recipe is optimized for search engines, incorporating relevant keywords and semantic variations to improve visibility and engagement.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This simple recipe requires only a few readily available ingredients:
- 1 (1-1.5 lb) salmon fillet, skin on or off - Choose a high-quality salmon fillet for the best flavor and texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil - Provides healthy fats and helps the salmon cook evenly.
- 1 teaspoon salt - Enhances the natural flavors of the salmon.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - Adds a subtle spice to complement the salmon.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - A classic flavor pairing with salmon.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika - Adds a touch of warmth and color.
- Optional additions: Lemon slices, fresh dill, or other herbs for extra flavor.
Easy Baking Instructions:
Follow these simple steps for perfectly baked salmon every time:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the salmon cooks evenly and quickly.
- Prepare your baking dish: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Season the salmon: Place the salmon fillet on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. If using, add lemon slices and fresh herbs.
- 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. Thicker fillets may require a few extra minutes.
- Check for doneness: The salmon should be opaque throughout and easily flake with a fork. Avoid overcooking, as this can result in dry salmon.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy your delicious and healthy baked salmon!
Tips for the Perfect Baked Salmon:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the salmon fillet and other ingredients to allow for even cooking.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations.
- Add vegetables: Roast vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts alongside the salmon for a complete and nutritious meal.
- Use a meat thermometer: For foolproof cooking, use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Serving Suggestions:
This baked salmon recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:
- Roasted vegetables: As mentioned above, roasted vegetables are a great complement to baked salmon.
- Quinoa or rice: These grains provide a healthy and hearty base for your meal.
- Salad: A fresh green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the salmon.
- Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor of the salmon.
This easy baked salmon recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity, health benefits, and delicious taste make it a perfect addition to your weekly meal plan. Enjoy!
