Looking to add a healthy and delicious twist to your dinner menu? Look no further than our easy baked salmon recipe. Packed with nutritious benefits and bursting with flavor, this dish is a must-try for seafood lovers.
The secret to this recipe lies in the simplicity of the ingredients and the cooking method. We carefully select fresh salmon fillets and season them with a blend of herbs and spices. The fish is then baked to perfection, resulting in a moist and tender texture that will melt in your mouth.
Not only is this dish a delight for your taste buds, but it also offers numerous health benefits. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and brain function. It’s also a great source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients.
So, why not elevate your dinner routine with our delicious and easy baked salmon recipe? It’s a wholesome and flavorful way to nourish your body and indulge in a truly satisfying meal.
Health benefits of eating salmon
Salmon is not only a delicious seafood option but also a powerhouse of health benefits. Incorporating salmon into your diet can have a positive impact on your overall well-being. Here are some of the key health benefits of eating salmon:
1. Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA. These essential fatty acids are known to reduce inflammation, support heart health, and improve brain function.
2. Excellent Source of Protein: Protein is an essential macronutrient that plays a crucial role in muscle repair, growth, and overall body function. Salmon is a great source of high-quality protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to meet their protein needs.
3. Loaded with Essential Nutrients: Salmon is rich in vitamins and minerals that are vital for optimal health. It contains vitamins B12, D, and E, as well as minerals like selenium, potassium, and magnesium.
4. Supports Eye Health: The omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon are beneficial for eye health. They help protect against dry eyes, age-related macular degeneration, and other vision problems.
Incorporating salmon into your diet can provide you with these incredible health benefits and more. With our easy baked salmon recipe, you can enjoy a tasty meal while nourishing your body.
Ingredients
To prepare our delicious and easy baked salmon, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 4 fresh salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried dill
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
These simple yet flavorful ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.
Steps
Follow these easy steps to prepare our baked salmon recipe:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried dill, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin side down. Brush the tops of the fillets with the olive oil mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
The result is a perfectly cooked and flavorful baked salmon that is sure to impress your taste buds.
Variations and additions to the baked salmon recipe
While our basic baked salmon recipe is already delicious on its own, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are some variations and additions you can try:
1. Citrus Twist: Instead of lemon juice, try using lime or orange juice for a tangy and refreshing flavor.
2. Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, parsley, or basil to add a unique twist to the recipe.
3. Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the olive oil mixture.
4. Sweet and Savory: Create a sweet and savory glaze by brushing the salmon with a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and minced ginger.
Feel free to get creative and adapt the recipe to your liking. The possibilities are endless, and you can discover new flavor combinations that suit your palate.
Tips for cooking the perfect baked salmon
Cooking salmon to perfection can be a breeze with these helpful tips:
1. Choose Fresh Salmon: Look for salmon fillets that have a vibrant color and smell fresh. Fresh salmon ensures optimal flavor and texture.
2. Don’t Overcook: Salmon can quickly become dry if overcooked. Check for doneness by gently flaking the fish with a fork. It should be opaque and flake easily.
3. Let it Rest: After removing the salmon from the oven, allow it to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender fillet.
4. Use High-Quality Olive Oil: Use a good-quality olive oil for brushing the salmon. It adds flavor and moisture to the fish.
By following these tips, you can achieve a perfectly cooked and delicious baked salmon every time.
Pairing suggestions for serving baked salmon
Baked salmon pairs well with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:
1. Roasted Vegetables: Serve the baked salmon with a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes. The roasted flavors complement the salmon beautifully.
2. Fresh Salad: Prepare a refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad balances the richness of the salmon.
3. Grain or Pasta: Serve the baked salmon over a bed of quinoa, brown rice, or whole wheat pasta for a more substantial meal.
Consider your personal preferences and dietary needs when choosing the perfect accompaniments for your baked salmon.
Nutritional information for baked salmon
Here is the approximate nutritional information per serving of our baked salmon recipe:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 34g
– Fat: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 2g
– Fiber: 0g
Please note that these values may vary depending on the size of the salmon fillets and the specific ingredients used. Adjustments can be made to suit your dietary requirements.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can. Thaw the frozen salmon fillets in the refrigerator overnight before using them in the recipe. Make sure to pat them dry before adding the seasonings and baking.
2. Can I use skin-on salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! The skin adds a nice texture and helps keep the salmon moist during baking. Just make sure to place the fillets skin side down on the baking sheet.
3. How do I know if the salmon is cooked through?
The salmon is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in color. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
4. Can I prepare the salmon ahead of time?
While it’s best to enjoy the baked salmon fresh out of the oven, you can prepare the seasoning mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, simply brush the salmon with the mixture and bake as directed.
Enjoying a healthy and delicious meal with baked salmon
Incorporating our delicious and easy baked salmon recipe into your dinner menu is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal. With its numerous health benefits and mouthwatering taste, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Remember to choose fresh salmon fillets, season them with a blend of herbs and spices, and bake them to perfection for a moist and tender texture. Customize the recipe to your liking with variations and additions, and experiment with different pairings to create a well-rounded meal.
By following our tips and suggestions, you’ll be able to cook the perfect baked salmon that nourishes your body and satisfies your taste buds. So, why wait? Elevate your dinner routine and indulge in the wholesome goodness of baked salmon today. Bon appétit!
Also See: Baked Salmon Recipe
