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Ingredients for Oven Baked Salmon
To make this delicious oven-baked salmon, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if preferred)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Oven Baked Salmon
Follow these easy steps to make a perfectly baked salmon fillet:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature allows the salmon to cook evenly, creating a beautifully tender and flaky texture.
2. Prepare the Salmon Fillets:
Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with olive oil. Pat the fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
3. Season the Salmon:
Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the fillets, ensuring they are well-coated. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish, followed by garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can also sprinkle some paprika for extra color and flavor if you like.
4. Bake the Salmon:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Be careful not to overcook the salmon to maintain its moist, tender texture.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once the salmon is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices for an added burst of freshness and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Oven-baked salmon pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas to create a well-rounded meal:
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve the salmon with roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes for a healthy, balanced meal.
- Rice or Quinoa: A side of fluffy rice or quinoa is a great way to soak up any leftover sauce and adds a satisfying element to the meal.
- Salad: A light, fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumber, avocado, and a lemon vinaigrette can complement the rich flavor of the salmon.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash are perfect pairings with baked salmon for a comforting dinner.
Tips for Success
To ensure your oven-baked salmon turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
- Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon cooks quickly, and overcooking can lead to dry, tough fish. Check the salmon at the 12-minute mark and use a fork to see if it flakes easily. If it does, it’s ready.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For the most accurate results, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the salmon. It should be 145°F (63°C) when fully cooked.
- Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Dill, rosemary, or Cajun seasoning can all work wonderfully with salmon.
- Add a Sauce: For extra flavor, drizzle the salmon with a lemon butter sauce or a simple homemade dill sauce after baking.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the fish moist.
Why You’ll Make This Recipe Again and Again
Oven-baked salmon is one of those dishes that never gets old. It’s simple, healthy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect go-to meal when you need something quick, satisfying, and nutritious. Plus, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences by changing the seasonings or adding a sauce.
This recipe is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a weeknight meal with family, or prepping lunch for the week. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, oven-baked salmon will quickly become a staple in your cooking rotation.
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