Baked salmon is a simple, healthy, and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Here’s a classic recipe for moist and flavorful salmon:
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz/170 g each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon slices and fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Marinade:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard (if using), honey (if using), Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Season the Salmon:
- Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down.
- Brush or drizzle the marinade evenly over the top of the fillets.
- Add a slice of lemon on each fillet for extra flavor.
4. Bake the Salmon:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 135-145°F (57-63°C).
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley and additional lemon wedges, if desired.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Tips:
- Thickness Matters: Adjust the baking time for thinner or thicker fillets. Check for doneness at 10 minutes for thinner pieces.
- Foil Packets: For extra moisture, wrap the salmon fillets in foil before baking to trap steam.
- Flavor Variations: Add spices like cayenne for heat, or substitute the Italian seasoning with fresh dill for a classic pairing.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or enjoy cold on salads.
Enjoy your perfectly baked salmon—a dish that’s easy, elegant, and utterly delicious!