There’s something magical about the combination of fresh salmon and lemon. The citrus enhances the natural flavor of the fish while adding a brightness that’s both light and satisfying. With this recipe, you’ll not only enjoy a beautifully baked salmon but also experience how effortless it can be to create a restaurant-worthy dish at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Simple: From prep to table in just 30 minutes.
- Healthy: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.
- Minimal Ingredients: Sometimes, less is more. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can achieve a flavor-packed dish.
- Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or spices to make this dish your own.
Ingredients:
For 4 servings of this baked salmon, you’ll need:
- 1 large salmon fillet (about 1.5 to 2 lbs), as shown in the image
- 2 lemons, sliced into rounds (plus extra wedges for serving)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking dish with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Lemon Base
In the image, you can see the salmon being placed over a bed of lemon slices. This adds a citrusy steam during baking, which helps keep the salmon moist and infuses it with flavor.
Place the lemon rounds evenly across the bottom of your baking dish to form a bed for the salmon.
3. Season the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels to help the seasonings stick better. Lay the salmon fillet on top of the lemon slices.
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Drizzle this mixture over the salmon, using a brush or your hands to ensure it’s evenly spread across the surface.
4. Garnish with Herbs
If you’re using fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, scatter them over the salmon for extra aroma and flavor. The herbs will lightly toast as the salmon bakes, releasing their fragrance into the dish.
Pro Tip: You can also sprinkle fresh parsley at the end for added freshness and a pop of color.
5. Bake the Salmon
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillet, so start checking around the 15-minute mark.
Cook’s Note: For a slightly crispier top, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
6. Serve
Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the fish moist. Serve with extra lemon wedges on the side for an added burst of flavor.
Cook’s Notes:
- Don’t Overcook: Salmon is best when it’s still a little tender in the center. Overcooking can make it dry, so keep an eye on it as it bakes.
- Variations: Feel free to customize this recipe! You can substitute lemon with orange for a sweeter citrus flavor, or try adding a dash of white wine to the baking dish for extra depth of flavor.
- Storage: Leftover salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or enjoy cold on top of a salad.
FAQ:
Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even baking.
Q: What should I serve with lemon garlic baked salmon?
A: This salmon pairs beautifully with simple side dishes like roasted vegetables, a green salad, or rice. For a low-carb option, try serving it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Q: How do I know when the salmon is done?
A: The best way to tell if salmon is cooked is to insert a fork into the thickest part of the fillet. If it flakes easily, it’s done. The internal temperature should reach 62°C (145°F).
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Garlic Baked Salmon is a perfect weeknight dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for convenience. The combination of garlic, lemon, and herbs creates a mouthwatering dish that’s as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or just looking for a healthy, satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home
