Baked Salmon with Lemon Herb Butter

Discover the best baked salmon recipe! My easy lemon herb butter version is mouthwatering and perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions.

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Oh my gosh, have you ever tried baked salmon with lemon herb butter? it’s like a hug from the ocean! seriously, the vibrant zing of lemon teamed with rich buttery goodness creates a flavor explosion that’s just out of this world.

This dish isn’t just your regular seafood fare; it’s a real crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner or just treating yourself on a weeknight.

A Taste of Coastal Comfort

This baked salmon dish draws on north american coastal cuisine , rich with flavor and culture. it’s been passed down through generations, each family adding their own twist.

The best part? it’s downright easy to whip up! you’ll be in and out of the kitchen in about 30 minutes , and it serves 4 people, so it’s perfect for a small gathering or just you and your loved ones.

Superb Health Benefits

Now, let’s chat about the perks. salmon is not just a tasty choice; it’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids , making it one of the best seafood recipes out there.

Eating this for dinner might just tick off some of those healthy eating goals. plus, can you imagine a better dish for date night? you’ll be impressing your special someone with your gourmet skills while still keeping it simple.

What makes this recipe unique is that buttery lemon kick. Honestly, once you try it, you’ll want to make it every week. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

With all this inspired goodness, let’s jump into what you need to get started on this delightful oven-baked salmon . you’ve got your ingredients lined up, you have your fish, and the kitchen awaits your culinary magic.

Can't wait for you to try it!

Ingredients & Equipment for Baked Salmon with Lemon Herb Butter

Main Ingredients

For this baked salmon recipe, quality matters. You want your salmon to shine on the plate, right? Here’s a simple list of what you need:

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each; 170 g )
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (about 30 ml )
• Salt and pepper , to taste

For the Lemon Herb Butter:

• ½ cup unsalted butter , softened ( 115 g )
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley , chopped ( 8 g )
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill , chopped ( 8 g )
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives , chopped ( 4 g )
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons; 30 ml )

When you’re picking your salmon, look for vibrant color and a clean, ocean smell. Fresh is best, baby!

Seasoning Notes

The magic of this dish is all in the herbs! Adding the right seasoning for salmon baked perfectly enhances the flavors.

• Essential Spice Combinations: Think classic — a dash of garlic powder and just a sprinkle of paprika can jazz up that salmon beautifully.
• Flavor Enhancers: A squeeze of lemon? Yes, please! Use lemon juice or zest to amp up that freshness.
• Quick Substitutions: No fresh herbs? No problem! Dried herbs work too. Just remember, a teaspoon of dried equals a tablespoon of fresh.

Equipment Needed

Alright, let’s talk gear. You don’t need a special kitchen to whip this up:

• Baking dish or tray: The trusty vessel for your salmon.
• Mixing bowl: A must for that lemon herb butter.
• Zester or grater: Getting that lemon zest just right is key!
• Knife and cutting board: For chopping those fresh herbs.
• Meat thermometer (optional): If you want to be sure your salmon hits 145° F ( 63° C) for perfect doneness.

You could totally improvise, too. A large baking sheet can double as your dish, and a fork works in a pinch for mixing.

So there you have it! gather up your ingredients, whip out your equipment, and get ready to bake some mouthwatering salmon.

It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy but is honestly so easy to pull together. you’ll impress your dinner guests and yourself! trust me; you’re gonna love it!

Cooking Method: The Perfect Baked Salmon

Baked salmon is one of those meals that feels fancy but is super easy to whip up. Bring a little North American coastal flair to your table! Let's dive in, shall we?

Prep Steps: Getting Ready

First things first, let's talk mise en place . that’s just fancy chef talk for having everything ready before you start cooking.

You’ll need your salmon fillets, olive oil, and spices, plus that luscious herb butter we’ll make! organizing your space makes everything smoother.

Now, safety first, folks! Always wash your hands before and after handling fish. Keep your utensils clean to avoid cross-contamination—no one wants a food safety scare at dinner!

Step-by-Step Process: Your Baked Salmon Journey

1. Preheat Your Oven: Fire that baby up to 375° F ( 190° C) . You want it nice and hot for evenly cooked salmon.

2. Prepare the salmon: pat those fillets dry with a paper towel (helps them crisp up). place them skin-side down in a greased baking dish.

   Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle on some salt and pepper. seasoning for salmon baked just right is key!

3. Make the lemon herb butter: mix ½ cup softened butter with the zest and juice of one lemon, plus chopped parsley, dill, and chives .

   A quick stir, and you've got a sensation waiting to happen!

4. Top the Salmon: Spread that luscious herb butter generously on those fillets. Don't be shy; this is the good stuff!

5. Bake: slide the baking dish into your preheated oven. bake for 15- 20 minutes . when that salmon flakes easily with a fork and hits an internal temperature of 145° f ( 63° c) , it’s done.

   Keep an eye on it—overbaking is a common mistake!

6. Serve: Take the salmon out and spoon any melted butter goodness sitting in the dish over the top. Trust me; you want that flavor explosion!

Pro Tips: Elevate Your Game!

1. Herb Swap: Feel free to get creative with your herbs. If you’re feelin' adventurous, try basil or tarragon for a different vibe.

2. Crispy Tips: Want a little crispiness? Pop it under the broiler for the last 2- 3 minutes . Just watch it like a hawk so it doesn't burn!

3. Make-Ahead Magic: You can prep the herb butter well in advance. Just store it in the fridge. It makes for a speedy weeknight dinner.

Wrapping It Up

There you have it—a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for dinner. whether with a side of roasted veggies or a light salad, this baked salmon is bound to impress.

Plus, the leftovers (if there are any) make an awesome addition to lunch the next day. so whip this up and enjoy the cheers from your kitchen—it's gonna be a hit! happy cooking, and remember: a little lemon, a lotta love!

Cooking Tips & Tricks for Your Ultimate Baked Salmon

Serving Suggestions

Let’s talk about the fun part— plating and presentation ! honestly, with oven baked salmon , it doesn't have to be anything too fancy.

Just take a moment to plate it nicely, maybe sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a pop of color.

Pair it with some roasted asparagus or green beans; both bring freshness that complements your salmon perfectly. a quick squeeze of lemon just before serving? yes, please!

For drinks, a chilled glass of sauvignon blanc is a match made in heaven. trust me, nothing beats the combo of lemony flavors from the salmon and that crisp wine.

If you're feeling like it, a light sparkling water with a wedge of lime could also do the trick.

Storage Tips

Now, let’s chat about the best way to keep that delicious baked salmon fresh. if you have leftovers (which, let’s be real, is a nice problem to have), store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

It should last about 3 days . just remember to let it cool down to room temperature first.

Want to save some for later? you can freeze it too! just wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and then pop it in a freezer bag.

It’ll stay good for about 2 months this way. when you're ready to eat, defrost it in the fridge overnight.

To reheat, place it back in a preheated oven at 350° f ( 175° c) for about 10 minutes , or until it’s warmed through.

Variations

You can totally switch things up with this recipe! for a healthier twist , try using a seasoning for salmon baked that contains a bit of garlic powder and paprika.

It gives it that nice toasted flavor without adding calories.

Why not mix it up seasonally too? swap out the herbs for something vibrant in summer like basil or tarragon.

Use those seasoned salmon recipes as a guide and play around with what you have on hand. gotta love a recipe that bends to your creative whims, right?

Nutrition Basics

Let’s keep it real: this baked salmon isn't just tasty; it packs a nutritional punch too! each serving is roughly 350 calories and loaded with about 34 grams of protein .

Talk about a hearty meal! plus, salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your heart health.

Bottom line? This dish is not just another meal; it's a powerhouse on your dinner table.

So go ahead, give this easy oven baked salmon a whirl tonight. your taste buds will thank you, and honestly, you'll feel pretty proud of this simple yet elegant dinner.

Happy cooking, friends!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when my baked salmon is done?

Your baked salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you have a meat thermometer, that’s a handy tool! Remember, slightly undercooked salmon will continue to cook as it rests, so keep an eye on it and don’t overbake.

Can I use frozen salmon for this baked salmon recipe?

Absolutely! If using frozen salmon, be sure to fully thaw it beforehand for even cooking. You can place it in the fridge overnight or submerge it in cold water for a quicker thaw. Once thawed, pat it dry before proceeding with the recipe!

What are some good side dishes to serve with baked salmon?

Great question! Baked salmon pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans, and a light couscous salad or quinoa adds a lovely touch. For a classic British twist, try serving it with some creamy mashed potatoes!

How do I store leftover baked salmon?

To store leftover baked salmon, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn!

What can I substitute for the butter in the baked salmon recipe?

If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider using ghee or margarine as a substitute for butter. For a lighter alternative, you could also use olive oil, though it won’t have the same rich flavor profile. A splash of lemon juice can really brighten up the taste too!

Can I make baked salmon in advance?

You can certainly prep your salmon in advance! Season the fish and prepare the lemon herb butter ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge until you're ready to bake. For the freshest experience, I'd recommend baking just before serving!

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