Salmon Recipe in Oven: A Delicious and Healthy Meal
Are you looking for a simple yet elegant salmon recipe that you can easily make in your oven? Look no further! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's packed with flavor, healthy, and requires minimal cleanup. Let's dive in!
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 and texture.
- 1 tbsp Olive oil: Provides healthy fats and helps the salmon cook evenly.
- 1 Lemon: Adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the richness of the salmon.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Enhances the savory notes of the dish.
- 1 tsp Dried dill: A classic herb pairing for salmon, offering a fresh and slightly herbaceous taste. (Fresh dill works wonderfully too!)
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the salmon.
- Optional additions: For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary, or spices like paprika or red pepper flakes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparing the Salmon:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the salmon cooks evenly and perfectly.
- Prepare your baking dish: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a crispy skin (if using skin-on).
- Season the salmon: Generously season both sides of the salmon fillet with salt, pepper, and dried dill.
Baking the Salmon:
- Add olive oil: Drizzle olive oil over the salmon.
- Add lemon and garlic: Place the minced garlic and lemon slices on top of the salmon.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillet. Thicker fillets will require a longer cooking time.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides. Roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or quinoa are all excellent choices.
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving adds a burst of freshness.
- Garnish with fresh dill sprigs for an extra touch of elegance.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Salmon:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Give the salmon enough space to cook evenly. If necessary, bake in batches.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker fillets will take longer to cook than thinner ones. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through.
- Skin-on or skin-off: Both work perfectly! Skin-on salmon will result in crispier skin. If using skin-on, place the salmon skin-side down in the baking dish.
- Experiment with flavors: Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs, spices, and citrus fruits to create your own unique flavor combinations.
This oven-baked salmon recipe is a fantastic choice for a healthy and delicious weeknight meal. It’s quick, easy, and adaptable to your preferences. Enjoy!
