What To Know
- Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, this recipe is designed to guide you through every step, ensuring a delectable outcome.
- To ensure even cooking, place the salmon on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
- Brush the salmon with a mixture of honey and Dijon mustard before baking for a sweet and tangy glaze.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of the ocean with our simple baked salmon recipe. This culinary masterpiece requires minimal effort and yields a succulent, flaky fish that will melt in your mouth. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, this recipe is designed to guide you through every step, ensuring a delectable outcome.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound salmon fillet (skin-on or skinless)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the Salmon:
Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels. Brush with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Place on a Baking Sheet:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Place the salmon fillet skin-side down or up, depending on your preference.
4. Drizzle with Lemon Juice:
Squeeze lemon juice over the salmon, ensuring it coats all surfaces.
5. Bake:
Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillet.
6. Garnish:
Remove the salmon from the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for an aromatic touch.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the baked salmon immediately with your favorite sides and enjoy the exquisite flavors of the sea.
Health Benefits of Salmon:
Beyond its delectable taste, salmon is a nutritional powerhouse, offering an array of health benefits:
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health
- Excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues
- Contains vitamin D, crucial for bone health
- High in selenium, an antioxidant that protects against cell damage
- May reduce inflammation throughout the body
Tips for a Perfect Bake:
- Use fresh salmon for optimal flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcook the salmon, as it will become dry and tough.
- To ensure even cooking, place the salmon on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize the flavor.
- Serve with a squeeze of lemon and a dollop of tartar sauce for an extra burst of freshness.
Variations:
- Herb-Crusted Salmon: Combine chopped fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and dill) with bread crumbs and press onto the salmon before baking.
- Honey-Glazed Salmon: Brush the salmon with a mixture of honey and Dijon mustard before baking for a sweet and tangy glaze.
- Lemon-Dill Sauce: Create a luscious sauce by combining lemon juice, chopped fresh dill, and mayonnaise. Serve over the baked salmon.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair your baked salmon with a variety of sides to create a satisfying meal:
- Roasted vegetables (such as broccoli, asparagus, or carrots)
- Steamed rice or quinoa
- Grilled lemon wedges
- Crusty bread for dipping
Final Thoughts:
Embrace the culinary delights of this simple baked salmon recipe. Its effortless preparation and exquisite flavors will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Whether you’re looking for a quick and healthy dinner or an elegant dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to deliver.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Thaw it completely before baking.
Q: How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?
A: The salmon is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Q: Can I add vegetables to the baking sheet with the salmon?
A: Yes, you can add vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or potatoes to the baking sheet. Toss them with olive oil and season them before baking.
