Oven-baked salmon is a simple, healthy, and flavorful dish that comes together quickly. With fresh ingredients and minimal prep, it’s perfect for weeknights or family dinners. The tender, flaky fish pairs beautifully with almost any side, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.
Why We Love This Oven Baked Salmon Recipe
Oven-baked salmon is celebrated for several reasons. First, it is filled with nutritious elements. Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health and brain function. Not only does it support your physical well-being, but it also boasts loads of flavor! The combination of garlic and herbs complements the salmon perfectly, enhancing its natural richness.
Moreover, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, entertaining guests, or feeding a hungry family, this dish fits the bill. It can be served with various sides, making it adaptable for any occasion, from casual dinners to more formal events. Also, the method of baking allows you to lock in moisture, ensuring that your salmon remains tender with every bite.
Ingredients about Oven Baked Salmon
To make this delicious oven-baked salmon, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 (2-pound) whole salmon fillet, skin-on preferred
- 3 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- Ground black pepper, to taste
These ingredients come together to create a dish that is not only savory but also visually appealing. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that delightful flavor profile.
How to Make Oven Baked Salmon Directions
Creating this oven-baked salmon is straightforward and satisfying. Follow these steps to get a beautiful dish that the whole family will enjoy.
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This temperature ensures the salmon cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Prepare the Baking Sheet: Take a large piece of aluminum foil and place it on a rimmed baking sheet. Carefully lay your salmon fillet on top, ensuring the skin side is down and the pink side is facing up. Crimp the edges of the foil around the salmon to form a ‘boat’. This helps to trap in moisture while it bakes, keeping your salmon juicy.
Make the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter (or olive oil) with the minced garlic. This mixture will add a layer of flavor to your salmon. Brush half of this mixture over the salmon fillet. The garlic brings out a wonderful aroma as it bakes.
Season the Salmon: In another bowl, mix together the brown sugar, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and ground black pepper. Evenly sprinkle this flavorful spice mix over the salmon, ensuring that it is well-coated. Drizzle the remaining garlic butter over the salmon, allowing those flavors to penetrate.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and let the salmon bake for about 15 to 22 minutes. The cooking time varies based on your preferred doneness. If you like, you can baste the salmon with its juices halfway through baking. This step is optional but adds more flavor and moisture.
Rest the Salmon: Once it’s cooked to your liking, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Resting is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the fish, making every bite tender and flavorful.
By following these simple steps, you will create an irresistibly delicious oven-baked salmon that is sure to impress everyone at the table.
How to Serve Oven Baked Salmon
When it comes to serving oven-baked salmon, the options are plentiful and can cater to various tastes. You might consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables, such as asparagus or broccoli, which not only adds color but also contributes to a well-balanced meal. A fresh garden salad can also complement the dish nicely, adding a crisp texture and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
For a more filling meal, pair the salmon with grains like quinoa or couscous. These not only soak up the savory juices from the salmon but also add a lovely nutty flavor. If you’d like a splash of brightness, top the salmon with fresh lemon wedges or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill right before serving.
Finally, consider the ambiance. Serve the salmon on a large platter with the vegetables arranged around it for a beautiful centerpiece at your dining table. When it looks good, it tastes good!
Expert Tips: Oven Baked Salmon
Choosing Quality Salmon: Look for fresh, high-quality salmon for the best results. If possible, choose wild-caught salmon; it offers better flavor and nutrition.
Getting the Right Doneness: Salmon can be tricky when it comes to cooking time. For a slightly underdone center that continues cooking after being removed from the oven, aim for an internal temperature of 125°F. For well-done salmon, aim for around 145°F.
Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. If you prefer a little kick, add some cayenne pepper or chili flakes. Love herbs? Fresh dill or rosemary can enrich the flavor profile.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfect doneness, using a meat thermometer can help avoid overcooking your salmon. Insert it into the thickest part of the fish for an accurate read.
Baking with Lemon: Consider placing lemon slices directly on top of the salmon before baking. This adds a refreshing citrus note that pairs beautifully with the fish.
How to Store Oven Baked Salmon
If you find yourself with leftover oven-baked salmon, you’ll want to store it properly to maintain its freshness and flavor. Allow the salmon to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. You can also store it in an airtight container to keep it moist.
Refrigerate the salmon, where it will stay good for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn; frozen salmon is best when consumed within three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them gently in the oven at a low temperature, just until warmed through. This prevents it from drying out and maintains its original texture.
Variation of Oven Baked Salmon
One of the best aspects of cooking is experimenting, and oven-baked salmon provides numerous opportunities for variation. Here are some ideas you might want to try:
Honey Mustard Glaze: Instead of the garlic butter, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard. Brush this over the salmon for a sweet-tangy twist.
Citrus Marinade: Marinate the salmon in a mixture of orange juice, lemon juice, and lime juice for at least 30 minutes prior to baking. This infuses the fish with a bright, zesty flavor.
Herb Crust: Mix panko breadcrumbs with finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and dill. Sprinkle this over your salmon fillet before baking for extra texture and flavor.
Spicy Cajun Salmon: Coat the salmon fillet with Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick. This version is perfect for those who love bold flavors.
Mediterranean Style: Top the salmon with sliced olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese before baking for a summery Mediterranean vibe.
Experimenting with these variations can breathe new life into your oven-baked salmon dinners and keep every meal exciting.
Frequently Asked Questions about Oven Baked Salmon
How long do I bake salmon in the oven?
The cooking time for oven-baked salmon largely depends on the thickness of the fillet. Generally, it takes between 15 to 22 minutes at 375°F. Use a meat thermometer for the best results, aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F for well-cooked salmon.
Do you have to cover salmon with foil while baking?
Covering the salmon with foil while baking helps to lock in moisture, ensuring the fish stays tender and juicy. However, if you prefer a crispy skin, feel free to bake it uncovered for part of the cooking time.
What should I serve with oven-baked salmon?
Oven-baked salmon pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with steamed vegetables, a side salad, or grains like quinoa or rice. Fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or a flavorful sauce can elevate it even further.
Is oven-baked salmon healthy?
Yes, salmon is highly nutritious. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and various vitamins and minerals. Incorporating salmon into your diet offers numerous health benefits, making it a wonderful choice for any meal.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking. Baking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillet.
Oven Baked Salmon
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Aluminum Foil
- Mixing Bowls
Ingredients
- 1 2 lb whole salmon fillet skin-on preferred
- 3 Tbsp melted butter or olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp ground paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 3/4 tsp salt
- Ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, placing the salmon fillet on top, skin side down.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter (or olive oil) with minced garlic. Brush half of this mixture over the salmon.
- In another bowl, combine brown sugar, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the salmon.
- Drizzle the remaining garlic butter over the salmon.
- Bake the salmon for 15 to 22 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness.
- Let the salmon rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
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