What To Know
- King salmon, renowned for its succulent flesh and delicate flavor, is a culinary treasure that deserves a place of honor in your kitchen.
- Yes, store the salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat the salmon in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
King salmon, renowned for its succulent flesh and delicate flavor, is a culinary treasure that deserves a place of honor in your kitchen. This guide will unveil the secrets of preparing an exquisite oven-baked king salmon that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your dinner guests.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound king salmon fillet, skin-on
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels.
2. Season the Salmon: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Brush the mixture evenly over the salmon fillet.
3. Bake the Salmon: Place the salmon fillet on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through. The exact time will vary depending on the thickness of the fillet.
4. Check for Doneness: Insert a fork into the thickest part of the salmon. If the flesh flakes easily and the center is opaque, the salmon is cooked.
5. Remove from Oven and Rest: Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Enhance the Flavor: Marinades and Sauces
Marinades:
- Lemon Herb: Whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, fresh herbs (such as dill, parsley, or basil), salt, and pepper. Marinate the salmon for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Honey Mustard: Combine honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and a touch of lemon juice. Marinate the salmon for 2-3 hours, or overnight for a more intense flavor.
Sauces:
- Lemon Butter Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan. Add lemon juice, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Spoon the sauce over the baked salmon.
- Dill Cream Sauce: Combine sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped dill, lemon juice, and a touch of sugar. Serve the sauce alongside the salmon.
Side Dish Pairing: The Perfect Accompaniments
- Roasted Vegetables: Roast a medley of vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grilled Lemon: Slice lemons into thin rounds and grill them until lightly charred. Serve them as a garnish or alongside the salmon.
- Quinoa Salad: Combine cooked quinoa with chopped vegetables, herbs, and a light vinaigrette.
Variations: Try Something Different
- Grilled King Salmon: Brush the salmon fillet with olive oil and season it with your favorite herbs and spices. Grill the salmon over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Pan-Seared King Salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Sear the salmon fillet for 3-4 minutes per side, or until a golden crust forms. Finish cooking the salmon in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: How do I know if my king salmon is fresh?
A: Look for bright, firm flesh with no discoloration. The salmon should have a clean, ocean-like smell.
Q: Can I use frozen king salmon?
A: Yes, you can. Thaw the salmon overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Q: What is the ideal internal temperature for cooked king salmon?
A: The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare doneness.
Q: Can I store leftover baked king salmon?
A: Yes, store the salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: How do I reheat baked king salmon?
A: Reheat the salmon in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
