Oven Baked Salmon

The scent of perfectly seasoned oven baked salmon wafting through your kitchen is nothing short of culinary magic. Imagine crispy skin with moist, flaky meat just waiting for you to sink your fork into it. This dish is the superhero of weeknight dinners—quick to prepare and impressive enough to serve guests.

Let’s not forget the memories that come flooding back when we think of this delightful dish. Picture a cozy family gathering where everyone’s eyes light up as you unveil the gorgeous salmon fillet. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like a five-star chef without needing a culinary degree or a Michelin star.

I remember the first time I served this oven baked salmon at a dinner party; my friends were practically swooning over it!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Salmon Fillets: Choose fresh fillets with vibrant color for best flavor; look for firm flesh that bounces back when pressed.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle enhances flavor while keeping the fish moist; opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice brightens up the dish; avoid bottled lemon juice for optimal freshness.
• Garlic Powder: Provides an aromatic depth; it’s easier than using fresh garlic when you’re in a hurry.
• Dill or Parsley: Fresh herbs add a lovely touch; use dill for a classic pairing or parsley for brightness.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors; don’t skimp on these!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your salmon cooks evenly while achieving that perfect flaky texture.

Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This helps with cleanup later and prevents sticking—trust me, no one enjoys scraping off fish bits!

Season the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on your prepared sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper generously across each fillet.

Add Zesty Flavor: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the seasoned salmon. If you’re feeling fancy and want an aromatic kick, add some zest from the lemon peel too!

Bake Your Salmon: Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork and has that beautiful golden hue.

Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped dill or parsley on top before serving. Pair it with roasted veggies or quinoa for an Instagram-worthy meal!

Now you’ve made an irresistible oven baked salmon that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share your table! Enjoy every bite while basking in those compliments coming your way!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While it heats, season the salmon and let it rest for a few minutes to absorb all those glorious flavors before you pop it in the oven.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out seasonings based on your mood! Try fresh herbs, citrus slices, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F to keep it moist and flavorful.

Cooking this oven baked salmon was a game-changer during my dinner party when friends raved about its flavor and moistness!

FAQ

What’s the best way to season oven baked salmon?

Lemon, garlic, and fresh dill create a classic flavor that complements salmon beautifully.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before seasoning and baking.

How long should I bake salmon in the oven?

Bake salmon fillets for about 12-15 minutes at 400°F until cooked through.

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Oven Baked Salmon

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Oven Baked Salmon is a delightful dish that transforms simple salmon fillets into a gourmet experience. With its flaky texture and rich, buttery flavor enhanced by lemon and fresh herbs, this recipe is perfect for both busy weeknights and elegant dinner parties. In just 20 minutes, you can serve tender salmon that’s not only delicious but also packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters. Whether paired with steamed vegetables or a refreshing salad, Oven Baked Salmon is versatile enough to impress everyone at your table while offering customization in seasoning to suit your taste.

• Author: Mason Recipes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (such as dill or parsley) for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Drizzle olive oil over each fillet and sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange lemon slices on top of each fillet.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (approximately 170g)
• Calories: 367
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 75mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 39g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, marinate the salmon in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking. - Substitute lemon with lime or orange slices for a different citrus twist. - Serve with quinoa or brown rice for a complete meal.