Perfectly Baked Salmon with Lemon & Dill

Want to learn how to cook salmon in the oven, like a pro? My lemon & dill recipe is foolproof and SO delicious! Flaky, moist salmon in under 30 mins. Get the secret!

Alright, let's dive into this salmon recipe, shall we? i mean, honestly, who doesn't love a good piece of salmon? especially when it's cooked right.

This is how to cook salmon in the oven and get it perfect every single time. flaky, moist, and full of flavor – that's the goal! we're talking restaurant-quality at home, folks, and it's way easier than you think.

Why Baked Salmon is a Winner

Baked salmon isn't just delicious; it's seriously good for you. loaded with omega-3s, it's a brain-boosting, heart-healthy choice. plus, this recipe is so simple, even a complete beginner can nail it.

Seriously! it's quick enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough for a dinner party. it serves four people and takes about 25 minutes from start to finish.

Honestly, it's perfect for those nights you want something healthy and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

This Ain’t Your Grandma's Over Baked Salmon

Listen, we've all had that sad, dry piece of salmon. it's a culinary tragedy! this recipe is designed to prevent that very thing.

The lemon-dill marinade keeps the salmon moist and flavorful while it bakes. it is one of those easy salmon oven recipes .

Think of it this way: the lemon brightens the salmon, the dill adds a fresh, herbaceous note, and the garlic? well, the garlic just makes everything better.

We're going for that perfectly cooked, flaky texture that makes you go, "mmm!" with every bite. the internal temperature of 145° f ( 63° c) is a key point.

Next up, we'll gather our ingredients. trust me, the shopping list is short and sweet. we're not talking about some crazy, complicated recipe here.

Just simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create something truly special. plus, i'll give you some tips on what to look for when you're buying your salmon to ensure you're getting the best quality.

Get ready for some delicious salmon recipes oven baked that'll impress even your mother-in-law! no more over baked salmon !

Alright, mate! let's get this salmon sorted. here's the lowdown for a cracking baked salmon recipe. even your nan could whip this up! we're aiming for simple and delicious.

A proper "bish, bash, bosh!" kind of deal. it's how to cook salmon in the oven at its finest.

Ingredients & Equipment

Right then, let's get down to brass tacks. What you'll need and what's going where.

Main Ingredients

• Salmon fillets: 4 , about 6 ounces/170g each. Skin on or off, you choose! Honestly, the skin crisps up nice. I'm a fan.
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons ( 30 ml ). Get the good stuff.
• Lemon: 1 . We need the juice ( 2 tablespoons/30ml ) and the zest ( 1 teaspoon ). Fresh is always best.
• Fresh dill: 2 tablespoons chopped ( 30ml ). Dried dill works too, use 2 teaspoons . It just isn't quite the same, you know?
• Garlic: 1 clove , minced. Because everything is better with garlic.
• Sea salt: 1/2 teaspoon ( 2.5 ml ).
• Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon ( 1.25 ml ).

When you're picking out your salmon, look for bright, vibrant color. It shouldn't smell too fishy. Honestly, fresh salmon barely smells at all.

Seasoning Notes

This marinade is a winner. The lemon and dill are classic for a reason. I've tried so many things. But this is just... right.

• Essential Spice Combos: Lemon + dill. It's like PB&J. Never fails.
• Flavor Enhancers: That garlic, though! Don't skip it! A little zest is a game changer.
• Substitutions: Out of dill? Chives or parsley work in a pinch. They'll never know the difference (probably).

Hey, want to kick it up a notch? A little sprinkle of red pepper flakes. It just adds a tiny bit of heat.

Equipment Needed

Keep it simple, keep it real.

• Baking sheet. Obviously.
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil. Stops the salmon from sticking. Easy cleanup.
• Small bowl. To mix the marinade.
• Whisk or fork. To mix the marinade. See above.
• Instant-read thermometer (optional). But seriously, get one. No more over baked salmon !

Honestly, you probably have all this stuff already. If you don't have parchment paper, foil works too. It is just a bit stickier! This recipe will help you to create Delicious Salmon Recipes Oven Baked , no kidding!

And there you have it! all the gear and none of the idea - now we're ready to cook! next up: the method! can't wait to make garlic salmon recipes oven baked .

Alright, let's dive into how to cook salmon in the oven . honestly, it's one of the easiest and most delicious ways to get dinner on the table.

And it is one of the easy salmon oven recipes that is quick. i've messed it up before. ever had over baked salmon ? blegh! but i learned a few tricks along the way.

Prep Like a Pro

First things first, let’s get organized. essential mise en place? totally. chop your dill. zest your lemon. mince the garlic.

Get it all ready before you even think about turning on the oven. this saves time and keeps you sane!

Time-saving tip? I buy pre-cut parchment paper. Seriously, game changer. It prevents the salmon from sticking. Plus, cleanup is a breeze.

Safety first, always. Wash your hands, especially after handling raw salmon. You know, basic stuff.

Baked Salmon: The Step-by-Step

Okay, here's how to cook a salmon filet in oven like a boss.

1. Preheat your oven to 400° F ( 200° C) . Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Trust me on this one.
2. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, dill, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This is your delicious best salmon marinade baked .
3. Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet. Drizzle the marinade all over the salmon. Make sure it is well coated.
4. Bake for 12- 15 minutes . Visual cues? The salmon should flake easily with a fork. Critical temperature? Aim for 145° F ( 63° C) .
5. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute. You don't want dry salmon.

Tips for the Perfect Bake

Honestly, don't overcook it! that's the biggest mistake. overcooked salmon is dry and sad. an instant-read thermometer is your friend.

Use it. i once baked some salmon and it was like shoe leather.

Another pro tip? Let the salmon sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking. It cooks more evenly. Don't get it wrong, Roasting Salmon In The Oven ensures evenness

Common mistakes to avoid? Forgetting to line the baking sheet. Trust me, you'll thank me later.

Looking for delicious salmon recipes oven baked ? This is a great base. Add some veggies to the baking sheet for a one-pan meal.

There are even baked salmon and shrimp recipes if you want to add another protein.

So, that's how I learned to cook salmon perfectly in the oven. Now go forth and bake!

Alright, let's dive into some extra bits that'll make your baked salmon sing .

Recipe Notes

Sometimes, the magic's in the details, you know? these are the things i’ve learned from making baked salmon and shrimp recipes in the oven, including my fave, how to cook salmon in the oven recipe, over and over again.

Serving Suggestions: Level Up Your Salmon Game

Forget just plopping that delicious salmon recipes oven baked on a plate! how about some flair? i like to add a squeeze of fresh lemon to brighten things up.

A sprig of dill? chef's kiss!

For sides, think bright and fresh. roasted asparagus is always a winner. quinoa salad? yep. and don't forget a crisp green salad to balance out the richness.

Oh, and for a cheeky drink pairing? a crisp sauvignon blanc is chef's kiss . i mean it. if you're thinking something else for a side dish, maybe some roasted sweet potatoes with a dash of cinnamon.

Storage Tips: Keep That Salmon Fresh, Mate!

So, you’ve got leftover salmon? lucky you! pop it in an airtight container and it'll happily chill in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat, gently warm it in the oven at 275° f ( 135° c). no one likes over baked salmon .

Freezing? yeah, you can do that too. wrap it well (think cling film and foil) and it’ll keep for about a month.

Thaw it overnight in the fridge. honestly, fresh is best, but sometimes you gotta meal prep.

Variations: Customize Your Salmon Adventure!

Want to mix things up? of course, you do! for a dietary twist, try using gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce (if you're using it in the recipe in the first place).

And for a seasonal switch, in the summer, throw some grilled peaches on the plate.

And for spice lovers, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the best salmon marinade baked . Want a Mediterranean touch? Sprinkle with oregano and a squeeze of lemon after baking.

Nutrition Basics: Feel Good About What You're Eating

Salmon is a nutritional powerhouse! we're talking protein, healthy fats (hello, omega-3s!), and a whole lotta vitamins. each serving clocks in around 350 calories, with a whopping 35g of protein.

Plus, those omega-3s are great for your heart and brain.

So, go on, give it a go! cooking salmon doesn't have to be scary. with this guide, even roasting salmon in the oven will become a breeze.

Easy salmon oven recipes are waiting for you to discover! and when you're thinking of dinner for the family, think about bake salmon recipes oven .

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I bake salmon in the oven for it to be perfectly cooked?

Generally, you'll want to bake salmon at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes. However, this depends on the thickness of your fillet. The best way to ensure it's perfectly cooked is to use an instant-read thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remember, slightly undercooked is better than overcooked salmon, which can become dry and tough – nobody wants that!

What's the best way to tell if my salmon is done?

Besides using a thermometer, you can check for doneness by gently flaking the salmon with a fork. If it flakes easily and the color is opaque throughout (no longer translucent), it's likely ready. If you're still unsure, it's always better to err on the side of caution and take it out slightly early. It will continue to cook a bit as it rests, like letting a good Yorkshire pudding settle.

Can I cook salmon from frozen in the oven?

While it's always best to thaw salmon before cooking, you can cook it from frozen in the oven in a pinch. However, you'll need to increase the cooking time significantly, usually by about 50%. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Be aware that the texture might not be quite as good as with thawed salmon, so plan ahead if possible! Think of it as a last resort - like beans on toast when you're skint.

I need to know - how to cook salmon in the oven and keep it moist?

The key to moist baked salmon is to avoid overcooking it! Using a marinade, like the lemon and dill one in this recipe, helps to keep it juicy. Baking it with the skin on also provides a layer of protection against drying out. Another tip is to tent the baking sheet with foil for the first half of the cooking time, then remove it for the last few minutes to allow the top to brown slightly, a bit like keeping the steam in while baking bread.

What are some delicious variations I can try with this baked salmon recipe?

There are loads! Try adding a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning before baking for a savory crust. For a Mediterranean twist, drizzle with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle with oregano and feta after baking. You could also experiment with different citrus fruits like lime or orange for the marinade. Don't be afraid to get creative – cooking should be fun, like a proper knees-up at the pub!

How should I store leftover baked salmon, and how long will it last?

Leftover baked salmon should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will generally last for 2-3 days. It's great in salads, sandwiches, or even reheated (though reheating can sometimes dry it out slightly – add a splash of water or broth when reheating). Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before eating – you don't want any tummy troubles, now do you?

Previous Recipe: Juicy Air Fry Chicken Breast - My Simple, Delicious Recipe!
Next Recipe: White Chicken Chili Crockpot: Creamy Comfort Made Easy!