Foolproof Baked Salmon

Picture this: a busy weeknight, you’re craving a delicious, healthy dinner but short on time. Enter Foolproof Baked Salmon – the perfect solution for those who want to whip up a tasty, nutritious meal without the fuss!

Salmon is not only a fantastic source of lean protein, but it’s also loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for a healthy heart and brain function. The best part? This recipe is virtually foolproof, ensuring a perfectly cooked, moist, and flavorful salmon every time!

Let’s talk about the secret weapon that makes this baked salmon recipe truly unbeatable – the oven temperature. By cooking the salmon at a lower temperature, you’re able to retain its natural moisture, resulting in a tender, juicy, and flaky fish that’s full of flavor.

Now, let’s chat about the marinade. It’s simple, yet incredibly effective in infusing the salmon with mouthwatering flavors. All you need are a few pantry staples: olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and your choice of herbs. Combine these ingredients and let the salmon marinate for at least 30 minutes to soak up all the goodness.

Tip: Feel free to get creative with your marinade! Add a touch of honey for sweetness, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Once your salmon is marinated and ready to go, it’s time to bake it to perfection. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, place the salmon skin-side down, and let the oven work its magic. The result? A beautifully cooked, foolproof baked salmon that’s sure to impress.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this foolproof baked salmon recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect go-to meal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties.

Pair your foolproof baked salmon with a side of steamed veggies, a light salad, or some fluffy quinoa for a well-rounded, satisfying meal that you can feel good about serving to your family and friends. And don’t forget a glass of crisp white wine to elevate your dining experience even further!

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to conquer your fears of cooking fish and dive into the world of foolproof baked salmon. Bon appétit!

Foolproof Baked Salmon

Course: Main CourseCuisine: American

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

A simple, healthy, and delicious baked salmon recipe perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs salmon fillet

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tsp dried dill

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• Optional: 1 tbsp honey

• Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

Directions

• In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dill, salt, pepper, and optional honey and red pepper flakes to make the marinade.
• Place salmon fillet in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over salmon, making sure it is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes.
• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
• Remove salmon from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Place salmon skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
• Remove salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
• Optional: Garnish with fresh dill or lemon slices before serving.
• Enjoy your foolproof baked salmon with your favorite sides!

Notes

• Adjust the baking time depending on the thickness of the salmon fillet.
• For a slightly sweeter flavor, add honey to the marinade.
• For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the marinade.

This foolproof baked salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a healthy, well-rounded meal, serve your salmon alongside steamed vegetables, such as asparagus or green beans, and a side of fluffy quinoa or brown rice.

If you’re looking for something a bit more indulgent, try pairing your salmon with creamy mashed potatoes or a rich, buttery risotto. A crisp, refreshing salad also makes for a great accompaniment, helping to balance the richness of the salmon. The options are endless, so feel free to get creative and mix and match your favorite sides to create the perfect meal for your taste buds.

Enjoy experimenting with different combinations and don’t be afraid to let your creativity shine in the kitchen as you create a meal that’s both delicious and satisfying.