Oven-Baked Salmon: A Simple, Healthy, and Delicious Recipe
Are you looking for a quick, easy, and healthy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This oven-baked salmon recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal cleanup, and is ready in under 30 minutes. Let's dive into this delicious and nutritious recipe!
What You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous dinner.
Ingredients:
- Salmon fillets: (about 6 ounces per serving) Choose your favorite cut - skin on or skinless. Fresh is best, but frozen works too (ensure it's fully thawed).
- Olive oil: A good quality olive oil adds incredible flavor.
- Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the salmon's flavor.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is a must.
- Dill: Fresh or dried dill adds a beautiful herbaceous aroma and taste. Dried dill is about ⅓ the strength of fresh.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, of course!
- Optional additions: Consider adding other herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary. A sprinkle of paprika adds a smoky sweetness.
Instructions:
This oven-baked salmon recipe is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon:
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up nicely.
Step 3: Season and Marinate (Optional):
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dill, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the salmon fillets, ensuring they're evenly coated. For maximum flavor, let the salmon marinate for at least 15 minutes, or even longer in the refrigerator.
Step 4: Bake:
Place the seasoned salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your fillets.
Step 5: Serve:
Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a simple salad.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Salmon:
- Don't overcook it! Overcooked salmon is dry and unpleasant. Start checking for doneness around 12 minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer: For foolproof results, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Get creative with seasonings: Experiment with different herbs, spices, and citrus fruits to create your own unique flavor combinations.
- Skin-on or skinless? Both work well! Skin-on salmon will be crispier.
Why This Recipe is Great:
This oven-baked salmon recipe is a winner for many reasons:
- Healthy: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein.
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of sides.
- Delicious: The flavor is incredible!
This simple oven-baked salmon recipe is a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinner repertoire. Enjoy!
