Description
This Oven Baked Salmon recipe is a simple, healthy, and flavorful way to prepare salmon fillets. Perfectly tender and flaky, the salmon is seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, then baked in the oven to perfection. It’s an easy and quick meal option suitable for busy weeknights or a nutritious dinner any day of the week.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin on
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon (sliced for garnish)
Optional Fresh Herbs
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure an even cooking temperature for the salmon.
- Prepare the salmon fillets: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick and prevents excess moisture during baking.
- Season the salmon: Brush both sides of the fillets with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper evenly over the fillets.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on a lined baking tray or baking dish. Arrange lemon slices around or on top of the fillets for added flavor and aroma.
- Bake the salmon: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon should be opaque and easily flake with a fork when done.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and garnish with fresh dill or parsley if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Do not overcook the salmon to keep it moist and tender.
- You can use fresh herbs like rosemary or basil as alternatives for thyme.
- For a citrus twist, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
- If you prefer, you can bake salmon with the skin removed, but skin helps retain moisture.
- This recipe works well with both wild and farm-raised salmon.
