Is there anything more comforting than the aroma of a perfectly baked piece of salmon filling your kitchen? I certainly can’t think of anything better. Cooking salmon is like painting a masterpiece; it requires a delicate balance of technique, timing, and the right ingredients to bring out the rich, buttery flavor of the fish.
That’s why I’m sharing my favorite recipe for baked salmon with you. But why should you try this recipe, you might ask? Well, it’s because this simple, easy-to-follow recipe transforms a humble piece of salmon into a feast for your taste buds that’ll make you feel like a master chef right in your own kitchen.
The Beauty of Baked Salmon
Apart from the fact that salmon is incredibly tasty, it also packs a powerful nutritional punch. It’s rich in essential omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality proteins, vitamins, and minerals. The health benefits of this beautiful fish are almost as impressive as its taste.
And when it comes to the method of cooking, baking it in the oven helps to seal in these nutrients and flavors, enhancing the natural goodness of the salmon. It’s a win-win situation – not only do you get a dish that’s delicious, but one that’s good for you too.
The Perfect Match: Salmon and Herbs
The combination of salmon and herbs is a match made in culinary heaven. Herbs add a fresh and aromatic element to the rich flavor of salmon, creating a balanced taste profile that is utterly irresistible.
For this recipe, I’ve chosen herbs like dill and parsley, which complement the salmon’s flavor perfectly. But feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs – the possibilities are endless!
Choosing the Right Salmon
Selecting the right piece of salmon is key to this recipe. Look for a fillet that’s fresh, bright pink, and has a firm texture. Avoid any fillets that have a strong fishy smell, as this can indicate that it’s not fresh.
If possible, opt for wild-caught salmon over farmed. Not only is it more sustainable, but its flavor is also usually more pronounced and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 piece of salmon fillet (about 1 lb.)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the salmon fillet on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the salmon, then sprinkle the minced garlic, chopped dill, and parsley evenly over the top.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Arrange the lemon slices on top of the salmon.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Tips for Baked Salmon
Always make sure your oven is fully preheated before you put the salmon in – this ensures it cooks evenly. Also, don’t overcook the salmon as it can become dry. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. Lastly, feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite herbs and seasonings to make it your own.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This baked salmon recipe is a must-try because it’s not only delicious and nutritious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and less than half an hour, you can have a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Plus, it’s customizable to your taste preferences.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Sodium: 200 mg