Craving a baked salmon recipe that's simple, elegant, and bursting with flavor? Forget those complicated baked salmon recipes with long ingredient lists and fussy techniques. This streamlined version comes together in under 30 minutes, yet delivers restaurant-worthy results. Trust me, it's so good, you'll be singing its praises to anyone who dares to listen.
Lemon Herb Baked Salmon Recipe
INGREDIENTS
4 salmon fillets (6-ounce each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Let's start cooking
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- This ensures your salmon cooks quickly and evenly.
- Prep the salmon.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Arrange the salmon fillets on the prepared sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season generously with salt and pepper.
- Make the herb marinade. In a small bowl, whisk together the garlic, thyme, and oregano.
- This fragrant mix will infuse the salmon with a delightful touch of the Mediterranean.
- Coat the salmon.
- Brush the herb marinade onto the salmon fillets, ensuring every corner gets a bit of love.
- Don't worry if it looks a bit uneven, the flavor will permeate beautifully during baking.
- Bake to perfection.
- Pop the salmon in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remember, overcooking can lead to dryness, so keep an eye on it!
- Sizzle and serve.
- Take the salmon out of the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and extra freshness.
MY EXPERIENCE
This baked salmon recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. It's so versatile! I love pairing it with roasted vegetables for a complete meal, or topping it with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of capers for a lighter lunch. The best part? Even picky eaters devour it. The simple yet vibrant flavors win over every palate.
EXTRA TIPS:
- Freshness is key. Use the freshest salmon you can find for the best taste and texture.
- Don't overcook! Remember, salmon continues to cook slightly after you take it out of the oven. Err on the side of undercooked, you can always give it a quick zap in the oven if needed.
- Get creative with herbs. This recipe is a blank canvas for your herb exploration. Try swapping the thyme and oregano for dill, rosemary, or even a touch of smoked paprika.
- Make it a party. Double or triple the recipe to feed a crowd. This baked salmon recipe is perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or even fancy date nights.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF THIS BAKED SALMON RECIPE
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their heart-healthy properties and potential to reduce inflammation in the body.
- High-Quality Protein: Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
- Vitamin D: Salmon is one of the few natural food sources of vitamin D, which is important for bone health, immune function, and overall well-being.
- Antioxidants: The herbs and lemon in the recipe provide antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and support overall health.
- Low in Unhealthy Fats: Baking the salmon with herbs and lemon keeps the dish low in unhealthy fats, making it a heart-healthy option.
- Nutrient-Dense: The combination of salmon, herbs, and lemon creates a nutrient-dense meal, providing essential vitamins and minerals.
NOTE
Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets. Always use a food thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
WRAP-UP
So ditch the takeout menus and give this baked salmon recipes a try. It's a symphony of simple flavors that will have you asking yourself, "Why didn't I make this baked salmon recipe sooner?" With its ease of preparation and guaranteed deliciousness, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your home. Now go forth, bake, and savor every lemon-herb infused bite!