Baked Salmon Recipe

When I’m craving something fresh, flavorful, and ridiculously easy to whip up, my go-to is this lemon-dill salmon. It’s like inviting a splash of sunshine right onto your dinner plate!

I love crafting healthy meals that are both delicious and simple, like my baked salmon. With the richness of olive oil and the freshness of garlic, a touch of lemon juice brightens each bite.

The zest adds vibrant flavor while fresh dill enhances the aroma, making this dish a nutritious delight.

Baked Salmon Recipe Ingredients

• Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids; high-quality protein.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fat; adds smooth texture and flavor.
• Garlic: Provides antioxidants; boosts flavor profile.
• Lemon Juice/Zest: Rich in vitamin C; adds refreshing tanginess.
• Fresh Dill: Offers a mild, aromatic flavor; enhances fish dishes.

Baked Salmon Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
• 1 lemon, sliced into rounds

How to Make this Baked Salmon Recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

3. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest; mix well to create a marinade.

4. Brush the marinade evenly over the salmon fillets.

5. Season the fillets with salt and black pepper to taste.

6. Sprinkle the chopped fresh dill evenly over the salmon.

7. Place a lemon slice on top of each salmon fillet.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.

9. Remove from the oven and let rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

10. Serve the baked salmon warm, accompanied by your choice of sides.

Baked Salmon Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Parchment paper
4. Small bowl
5. Brush (pastry brush or similar)
6. Measuring spoons
7. Knife
8. Cutting board
9. Fork

FAQ

• Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
  Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before using.
• What can I use instead of olive oil?
  Avocado oil or melted butter can be substituted for olive oil.
• How long should I bake the salmon?
  Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
• Can I add other herbs?
  Yes, thyme or parsley can be added for additional flavor.
• Is it necessary to use fresh dill?
  Fresh dill is recommended, but dried dill can be used in a smaller amount if needed.
• Can I double the recipe?
  Yes, just adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly and ensure the salmon is placed in a single layer on the baking sheet.
• What if I don’t have lemon zest?
  You can omit it or add a little more lemon juice for extra citrus flavor.

Baked Salmon Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Olive oil: Substitute with melted butter or avocado oil.
• Garlic: Use garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon per clove) or shallots.
• Lemon juice: Replace with lime juice or white wine vinegar.
• Lemon zest: Use lime zest or a bit of dried lemon peel.
• Fresh dill: Swap with fresh parsley or chives.

Pro Tips

1. Marination Time For even more flavor, consider marinating the salmon for about 15-30 minutes before cooking. This allows the garlic, lemon, and olive oil to infuse more deeply into the fish.

2. Crispy Skin Tip To achieve a crispy skin, quickly pan-sear the salmon fillets skin-side down in a hot, oven-proof skillet for about 2-3 minutes before placing them in the oven. This step can enhance texture and presentation.

3. Use a Meat Thermometer To ensure perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the salmon. Aim for 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part for optimal juiciness and flavor.

4. Herb Variation Feel free to experiment with different herbs. If dill isn’t available or if you want a different flavor, try substituting with fresh thyme or parsley.

5. Broil for Extra Zing After baking, turn the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes to give a slightly golden and caramelized finish on top of the lemon slices and edges of the salmon. Watch closely to prevent burning.