Table of Information
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 15-20 minutes |
| Total Time | 25-30 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
Introduction
Baked salmon is a simple, elegant, and nutritious dish, known for its tender texture and rich flavor. It’s a versatile recipe that can be dressed up with a variety of herbs, spices, and sauces, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
- Salmon Fillets – 4 (about 6 ounces each)
- Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons
- Lemon Juice – 2 tablespoons
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Dill, Parsley, or Rosemary – 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Salt and Pepper – to taste
- Lemon Slices – for garnish
Directions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
3. Season the Salmon: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. Brush this mixture over the salmon fillets. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the Salmon: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Garnish with lemon slices and additional herbs before serving.
Important Tips
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooked salmon can become dry. Keep an eye on it and remove it from the oven as soon as it’s done.
- Room Temperature: Bring the salmon to room temperature before baking for even cooking.
- Marinating: For extra flavor, marinate the salmon for up to 30 minutes before baking.
Baked Salmon Variations
- Honey Mustard Glaze: Mix honey and Dijon mustard and brush over the salmon before baking.
- Teriyaki Sauce: Use a teriyaki glaze for an Asian-inspired flavor.
- Cajun Seasoning: Spice it up with Cajun seasoning for a bit of heat.
Storing and Reheating
- Storing: Refrigerate leftover salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out.
How to Reheat Baked Salmon
- Oven: Reheat at 275°F (135°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a low setting and heat in short intervals until just warm.
Pros and Cons of Baked Salmon
- Pros:
- Healthy: Salmon is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and protein.
- Quick and Easy: Simple to prepare, making it ideal for a fast meal.
- Versatile: Works well with various seasonings and side dishes.
- Cons:
- Cost: Salmon can be more expensive than other types of fish.
- Sensitivity to Overcooking: Requires attention to avoid overcooking.
- Odor: Cooking salmon can sometimes leave a lingering smell in the kitchen.