Baked Salmon: How to Cook Perfect Fish Every Time
Learn how to oven baked salmon with this simple, healthy recipe for baked lemon and garlic salmon. Perfect for a nutritious and flavorful meal in 5 easy steps.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets about 6 oz each
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven
- Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to fully preheat.
- Prep the Salmon
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place them skin-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Season with Lemon & Garlic
- In a small bowl, mix minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, and olive oil. Brush the mixture evenly over the salmon fillets, covering the tops and sides. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake the Salmon
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon easily flakes with a fork. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C).
- Garnish and Serve
- Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for 1-2 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for extra citrus flavor.
Notes
- Use Fresh Salmon: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh, high-quality salmon fillets. Wild-caught salmon is typically leaner with a more robust taste, while farm-raised tends to be milder and more tender.
- Prevent Overcooking: Salmon cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it. Overcooked salmon can become dry. Use a food thermometer to check doneness 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare, 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium.
- Crispier Skin Option: If you prefer crispy skin, bake the salmon at a slightly higher temperature (425°F/218°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or sear it in a hot pan before baking.
- Alternative Seasonings: While lemon and garlic are classic, you can experiment with other seasonings like honey mustard, soy sauce, or Cajun spices for different flavor profiles.
- Best Side Dishes: Roasted vegetables, quinoa, wild rice, or a light green salad pair wonderfully with baked salmon.
- Storage Tips: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) to maintain moisture.
استخدم سمك السلمون الطازج: للحصول على أفضل نكهة وملمس ، اختر شرائح سمك السلمون الطازجة عالية الجودة.
