How to Make Perfect Baked Salmon ? – Easy & Delicious Recipe

Baked salmon is a simple yet flavorful dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe guarantees perfectly cooked, moist salmon with a crispy edge. The best part? It’s easy to make and requires just a few basic ingredients. In this recipe, we’ll show you step-by-step how to bake salmon to perfection, creating a meal that’s healthy, satisfying, and full of flavor.

Recipe Preparation Equipment

Before you start, make sure you have the following tools ready:

• Baking sheet or dish
• Aluminum foil or parchment paper (optional)
• A sharp knife (for cutting the salmon fillets if necessary)
• Cooking brush (for applying oil or seasoning)
• Oven (preheated to the right temperature)

Ingredients

• 4 fresh salmon fillets (6-8 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• 1 tbsp garlic powder (optional)
• 1 tbsp dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or dill)
• 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Easy Baked Salmon recipe ?

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you bake salmon perfectly every time:

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. If you prefer crispy edges, you can skip this step.

Step 3: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures the fish bakes evenly.

Step 4: Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil or brush with melted butter to coat the fillets evenly.

Step 5: Season the salmon with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and any herbs you prefer. For added flavor, you can sprinkle some fresh lemon juice over the fillets or place lemon slices on top.

Step 6: Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork. The exact time will depend on the thickness of the fillets, so check for doneness to avoid overcooking.

Variations

• Spicy Baked Salmon: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
• Honey Garlic Salmon: Drizzle the salmon with a mixture of honey and minced garlic before baking for a sweet and savory twist.
• Herb-Crusted Salmon: Add fresh or dried herbs like parsley, thyme, dill, or rosemary for an herbaceous flavor.

Cooking Note

If you prefer your salmon to be a little extra crispy, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for a healthy and balanced meal.
• Pair with a light salad, such as a mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
• You can also serve the salmon with a side of quinoa, rice, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

Helpful Tips

• Don’t Overcook: Salmon can dry out quickly, so be sure to check it early to avoid overcooking. It’s done when the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
• Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh, high-quality salmon will give you the best results, but frozen salmon works fine too. Just make sure it’s fully thawed before baking.

Tips for the Best Baked Salmon recipe

• Make sure your salmon fillets are uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
• Don’t skip drying the fillets before seasoning – this helps the flavors stick better.
• For a more intense flavor, marinate the salmon for 30 minutes before baking.
• Let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the fish moist.

More similar recipes :

• Lemon Butter Baked Cod 
• Miso Salmon Recipe

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, frozen salmon can be used. Just make sure it’s fully thawed before baking.

How do I know when salmon is fully cooked?

Salmon is done when it easily flakes with a fork and the flesh turns opaque. It should have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I bake salmon with skin on?

Yes, you can bake salmon with the skin on. It helps keep the salmon moist and adds a crispy texture.

Conclusion

This baked salmon recipe is a quick, easy, and healthy way to enjoy a delicious seafood dinner. With minimal preparation and simple ingredients, you can create a meal that’s full of flavor and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned chef, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Don’t forget to experiment with different seasonings and sides to make it your own!

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