Lemon Herb Baked Salmon: Weeknight Winner!

Need an easy baked salmon recipe? This lemon herb version is a weeknight winner! Flaky, flavorful, and ready in 30 minutes. Get my simple tips here!

Alright, let's dive into something tasty and super simple, shall we? ever find yourself staring blankly into the fridge, wondering what on earth to cook for dinner? same here! but this easy baked salmon recipe is about to become your new best friend.

It's bursting with lemony, herby goodness.

Hello, Beautiful Baked Salmon!

This dish isn't just about convenience, it is about taste. it's super simple to make. think flaky, tender salmon. a delightful blend of lemon and herbs.

Perfect for a quick weeknight meal. it’s one of those meals that makes you feel like you're at a fancy restaurant, but honestly, anyone can whip it up!

This easy baked salmon recipe is as straightforward as it gets. it's done in under 30 minutes. minimal prep and cooking time make it ideal for busy evenings.

It serves four hungry humans. it's a great way to get your omega-3s in! the lemon and herbs brighten up the salmon, so it's really flavorful.

Why You'll Love This Salmon

Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids. these are great for your heart and brain. plus, this recipe is incredibly versatile.

It's perfect for a casual family dinner or a slightly more upscale gathering. honestly, what makes this easy baked salmon recipe stand out is its simplicity and flavour.

It’s the kind of dish that looks impressive but requires minimal effort. i used to be intimidated by cooking fish, but this recipe changed everything.

Let's Talk Ingredients

First, you'll need four beautiful salmon fillets. then you'll need olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and a handful of fresh herbs.

Garlic, parsley, dill, and oregano complete the aromatic profile. salt and pepper? of course! oh! you'll want some lemon slices for garnish, those are optional, but they look great! now that we have the ingredients, lets begin with the instructions.

Alright, let's dive into what you need for this easy baked salmon recipe . Trust me, it's simpler than finding a decent cup of tea in London some days!

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Sorted

Main Ingredients: The Salmon Story

• Salmon fillets: 4 fillets, about 6 ounces/170g each. I prefer skin-on, it gets crispy!
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons/30ml .
• Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons/30ml , fresh is best.
• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced.
• Fresh Parsley: 1 tablespoon/15ml , chopped.
• Fresh Dill: 1 tablespoon/15ml , chopped.
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon/5ml .
• Salt: ½ teaspoon/2.5ml .
• Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon/1.25ml .
• Lemon slices: For garnish, if you're feeling fancy.

For salmon, look for fillets that are firm and vibrant in color. Avoid anything that smells too fishy or looks dull.

Seasoning Notes: Spice It Up!

This easy baked salmon recipe is all about simple flavors that pop. The lemon and herbs create a beautiful, fragrant crust.

• Essential spice combination: Garlic, parsley, dill, oregano, salt, and pepper. This base is where the magic happens.
• Flavor enhancers and aromatics: Fresh lemon juice is key. It brightens the salmon and balances the richness.
• Quick substitution options: Don't have fresh dill? Use ½ teaspoon of dried dill. If you are one of the rare people not liking garlic, try garlic powder.

I once tried adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. Honestly, it added a nice kick.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Silly!

You don't need a fancy kitchen to nail this easy baked salmon recipe .

• Essential tools: Baking sheet and a small bowl.
• Common household alternatives: Parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze, but foil works too. If you don't have a whisk, a fork will do the job just fine.

I remember the first time i tried this, i didn’t have parchment paper. the salmon stuck a bit, but still tasted amazing.

Just saying! speaking of amazing, ever tried making best tomato bisque soup recipe after baking this? the creamy texture contrasts perfectly! a quick tomato bisque soup can be ready in under 30 minutes, too, you know? honestly, it is awesome!

Alright, let's talk easy baked salmon recipe . forget slaving away in the kitchen. this is weeknight dinner sorted. honestly, it’s so simple, even i can’t mess it up.

And trust me, i’ve had my kitchen disasters.

Prep Steps: Get Your Act Together

First, the mise en place thing. basically, get everything chopped and measured. two minutes now saves ten later. olive oil 2 tablespoons , lemon juice 2 tablespoons , garlic minced, herbs chopped, all that jazz.

Got it all ready? Awesome. Preheating the oven to 400° F ( 200° C) is next. While it heats, grab a baking sheet. Parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze. Safety first, people!

The Salmon Shuffle: 6 Easy Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 400° F ( 200° C) . Parchment paper is your friend.
2. Whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, dill, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Place those salmon fillets on the sheet.
4. Spoon that amazing mixture over each fillet.
5. Bake for 12- 15 minutes . Watch that salmon carefully.
6. Garnish and serve. Boom. Dinner.

Visual cues for doneness? The salmon should flake easily. Internal temp should hit 145° F ( 63° C) .

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Salmon Game

Wanna be a salmon ninja? Pat the fish dry first. The coating sticks better that way. Don't overcook it. Dry salmon is sad salmon.

Avoid overcrowding the pan. it steams instead of bakes. also, fresh herbs are king here. i swear, it makes a difference.

Want to prep ahead? mix the coating and store it. but add it right before baking.

Speaking of pairings, this salmon would rock with a side of best tomato bisque soup recipe, kind of like an elevated tomato soup, or a simple crockpot tomato bisque soup, and if i am feeling fancy, sometimes i make tomato bisque from canned soup or soup tomato bisque or instant pot tomato bisque.

Honestly? Salmon can be your blank canvas for flavors. If you are in a hurry, you can use Tomato Soup With Frozen Tomatoes and you will have the same good result.

Okay, let's dive into some extra bits and bobs for this easy baked salmon recipe . Think of these as my little notes, just like scribbled on my recipe card after making it a bunch of times!

Recipe Notes

Ace Serving Suggestions

Right, presentation! honestly, a plate of beige is a big no-no. think about colour. plating this up, i reckon a bright green like asparagus next to the pink salmon? bangin'.

Maybe a bit of lemon zest sprinkled on top for a final flourish. oh my gosh, and don't forget sides! roasted baby potatoes would be lovely.

Or, if you're feeling fancy, a simple quinoa salad. for drinks? a chilled glass of white wine or even just a sparkling water with a lemon wedge works a treat.

I once served it with best tomato bisque soup recipe and people were blown away! never underestimate the power of a good soup to start a meal.

Savvy Storage Tips

So, you've got leftovers? sorted. pop the salmon in an airtight container and into the fridge. it’ll be grand for up to 3 days.

Freezing? not ideal, but you can do it. wrap it tightly in cling film, then foil. it'll keep for a month.

Reheating? gently does it. a low oven (around 250° f/ 120° c) is your best bet, or a quick zap in the microwave if you’re in a rush.

Variations That Wow

Fancy a change? this is where you can have some fun! for a dietary spin, swap the regular olive oil for avocado oil – healthy fats, you know? or, if you're watching the carbs, serve it with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.

Crockpot tomato bisque soup can be a fantastic starter for such a light, healthy meal. for seasonal swaps, in summer use fresh basil instead of dill.

Winter? a touch of smoked paprika adds a lovely warmth. you can even make tomato soup with frozen tomatoes alongside your salmon, regardless of the season.

A spicy version can be made by add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon herb mixture.

Nutrition Lowdown

Okay, the boring bit... but it's important! salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your heart and brain.

Each serving of this easy baked salmon recipe is a good source of protein, too. remember, these are just rough figures, but you can get a tasty tomato bisque from canned soup and this salmon combo.

Honestly, even if your salmon doesn't come out looking perfect the first time, don't worry. keep at it. you'll soon be whipping up this elevated tomato soup dish like a pro! maybe one day you can even start making an instant pot tomato bisque or soup tomato bisque to pair with it.

The point is to have fun and experiment. and remember, if you are struggling, you can always start with tomato bisque from canned soup and work from there.

You've got this! honestly, this quick tomato bisque soup and salmon combo is worth the effort!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when my easy baked salmon recipe is done cooking? I always seem to overcook it!

The easiest way to tell if your salmon is cooked is by gently flaking it with a fork. If it separates easily and is opaque throughout, it's ready! For extra insurance, you can use an instant-read thermometer; it should register 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part. Remember, it will continue to cook a little after you take it out of the oven, so don't be afraid to pull it out when it's almost done. Nobody wants dry salmon, and frankly, that's just not cricket!

Can I use frozen salmon for this easy baked salmon recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the salmon completely before baking. The best way to do this is overnight in the refrigerator. If you're in a rush, you can thaw it in a sealed bag in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes or so. Once thawed, pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before applying the lemon herb coating. This helps the coating adhere better and prevents the salmon from steaming instead of baking.

What's the best way to store leftover baked salmon, and how long will it last?

Leftover baked salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. It's fantastic flaked into salads, used in salmon patties, or even reheated gently in the oven. To reheat, wrap it in foil with a little lemon juice or water to keep it moist and bake at a low temperature (around 275°F/135°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the salmon rubbery – nobody wants a salmon disaster!

I'm trying to eat healthier. Is this easy baked salmon recipe actually good for me?

You bet your bottom dollar it is! Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are fantastic for heart health and brain function. Plus, it's a great source of protein. This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients like lemon, herbs, and a touch of olive oil, making it a nutritious and delicious choice. You can further boost its health benefits by serving it with a side of roasted vegetables or a quinoa salad.

Can I change up the herbs and spices in this easy baked salmon recipe? I don't have dill!

Of course! That's the beauty of cooking – you can adjust it to your taste. If you don't have dill, try using thyme, rosemary, or even a bit of tarragon. A sprinkle of paprika can also add a nice smoky flavour. Just remember to use dried herbs sparingly, as they tend to be more potent than fresh. It's all about finding what flavours you enjoy, so experiment and have fun!

My family doesn't like salmon skin. Can I bake it without the skin and will it affect the cooking time?

Yes, absolutely! You can easily bake the salmon without the skin. Simply remove the skin before applying the lemon herb coating. Removing the skin shouldn't significantly affect the cooking time, but it's always a good idea to keep an eye on it and check for doneness a minute or two earlier than the recipe suggests. Salmon with the skin on tends to be a bit moister, but skinless salmon can be just as delicious when cooked properly!

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