Easy Baked Salmon Recipe: The Best Way to Cook Salmon in the Oven

Salmon is one of those versatile proteins that can transform an ordinary dinner into a restaurant-quality meal. This baked salmon recipe is designed to deliver a delicious, flaky, and moist dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned home cook, this guide will show you how to bake salmon in the oven to perfection. Let’s dive in!


Recipe Card

Baked Salmon Recipe

Description: A simple yet flavorful baked salmon recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is healthy, delicious, and sure to impress.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 320 per serving

Ingredients:

  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  2. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
  3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture generously over the salmon.
  4. Arrange lemon slices on top of the salmon.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 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).
  6. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes:
For extra flavor, marinate the salmon in the olive oil mixture for 15-30 minutes before baking.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 34g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This baked salmon recipe requires minimal prep and cooks in under 30 minutes.
  2. Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and low in carbs, it’s a guilt-free meal.
  3. Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests.
  4. Customizable: You can easily adapt the flavors to suit your taste.
  5. Minimal Cleanup: Using parchment paper or foil makes cleanup a breeze.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

  • Salmon Fillets: Opt for fresh, wild-caught salmon for the best flavor. Skin-on fillets help retain moisture, but skinless works too.
  • Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps the seasonings stick to the salmon. Avocado oil or melted butter can be used as alternatives.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor. Garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch.
  • Paprika and Oregano: These spices provide warmth and earthiness. Smoked paprika can be used for a deeper flavor.
  • Lemon: Enhances the freshness of the dish. Lime can be substituted for a tangy twist.

How to Make Baked Salmon (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared sheet. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic, and seasonings. Brush this mixture evenly over each fillet.

Step 3: Add Lemon Slices

Top each fillet with a slice or two of lemon. This not only adds flavor but also helps keep the salmon moist during baking.

Step 4: Bake

Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 145°F (63°C).

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the salmon from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.


Expert Tips for Success

  1. Choose the Right Salmon: Look for bright, firm fillets with no strong fishy smell.
  2. Don’t Overcook: Salmon dries out quickly if overcooked. Check for doneness at the 15-minute mark.
  3. Use a Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked salmon, use an instant-read thermometer.
  4. Room Temperature Salmon: Let the fillets sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before baking for even cooking.

Variations and Customizations

  • Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mix.
  • Herbaceous: Incorporate fresh dill or thyme for a different flavor profile.
  • Asian-Inspired: Replace olive oil with sesame oil and add soy sauce, ginger, and a drizzle of honey.
  • Creamy: Serve with a dollop of garlic herb butter or a yogurt-based dill sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

  • Storage: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 8-10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave, as it can dry out the salmon.

Serving Suggestions

This baked salmon pairs beautifully with:

  • Steamed asparagus or green beans
  • Garlic mashed potatoes
  • Quinoa or wild rice
  • A crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long to cook salmon in oven?
The cooking time depends on the thickness of the fillet. Generally, bake salmon at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes. A thicker fillet may require up to 25 minutes, while thinner cuts may only need 12-15 minutes. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 145°F (63°C).

Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but thaw it completely before baking to ensure even cooking.

What’s the best way to keep salmon moist?
Brush the fillets generously with oil and bake with lemon slices on top. Avoid overcooking.

Do I need to flip the salmon while baking?
No, baking the salmon skin-side down ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.


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Conclusion

This baked salmon recipe is the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. With minimal effort, you can create a healthy, satisfying meal that will delight your family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to cooking salmon in the oven, this recipe guarantees success. Try it tonight and see why it’s a favorite in kitchens everywhere!

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