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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Salmon
- Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin side down if using skin-on fillets.
- Drizzle olive oil over the fillets and rub to coat them evenly.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon for a bright, tangy flavor.
3. Season the Fillets
- Sprinkle minced garlic over each fillet.
- Season with paprika, oregano (or dill), salt, and pepper. Adjust the amount of seasoning to your taste preference.
4. Bake the Salmon
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Broil for a Crispy Finish (Optional)
For a slightly crispy top, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a minute.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your oven-baked salmon with a variety of side dishes to create a well-rounded meal:
- Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a fresh green salad.
- Grains: Serve with quinoa, wild rice, or a light pasta dish.
- Potatoes: Try garlic mashed potatoes or crispy roasted baby potatoes for a comforting side.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Salmon
- Choose Fresh Salmon: Look for bright, firm fillets with no fishy odor for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook: Salmon can dry out quickly, so keep an eye on it while baking. Use a meat thermometer for precision.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: For a more robust taste, marinate the salmon in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and your favorite herbs for 30 minutes before baking.
- Use Foil for Juicier Salmon: Wrapping the fillets in foil while baking locks in moisture, resulting in tender, juicy fish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal Cleanup: Lining the baking sheet with parchment or foil keeps cleanup simple.
- Customizable: Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste or try different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill for variety.
- Healthy and Delicious: This recipe combines heart-healthy salmon with light, natural ingredients, making it both nutritious and indulgent.
Conclusion
This Oven-Baked Salmon Recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or cooking for your family, this dish is guaranteed to impress with its tender, flaky texture and vibrant taste. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a wholesome, restaurant-quality meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the ease and satisfaction of preparing a delicious seafood dish that’s as nutritious as it is tasty!
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