Baked Salmon Recipe: A Simple and Delicious Way to Enjoy Seafood

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When it comes to preparing a wholesome and nutritious dinner, few dishes can rival the simple elegance and deliciousness of baked salmon. This recipe features a whole salmon fillet, accented with fresh lemon, herbs like parsley, dill, and chives, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. The result? A perfectly cooked piece of fish that’s tender, flavorful, and ready to serve with minimal effort.

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Salmon has long been a favorite choice for home cooks and professional chefs alike, and for good reason. Not only is it rich in essential nutrients, but it also offers a delicate yet satisfying flavor that pairs beautifully with a wide range of ingredients. This baked salmon recipe brings out the best in the fish, allowing its natural richness to shine through while elevating it with the addition of fresh herbs and citrus.

This article will guide you through the preparation of this baked salmon, from selecting the right salmon fillet to the step-by-step process of cooking. We’ll also provide tips for ingredient substitutions, variations, and serving suggestions to ensure that this dish becomes a regular in your culinary repertoire.

The Appeal of Baked Salmon

Salmon is a versatile fish that can be cooked in a variety of ways, but baking it is undoubtedly one of the easiest and most foolproof methods. The fish comes out tender and moist every time, with its natural flavors enhanced by the bright and fresh ingredients used in this recipe. The combination of citrusy lemon, fragrant herbs, and rich olive oil creates a flavor profile that’s both light and satisfying, making it an ideal dish for any occasion.

The appeal of baked salmon lies not only in its taste but also in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a short cooking time, you can create a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting to explore the world of seafood, this baked salmon recipe is sure to impress.

The Ingredients You’ll Need for Baked Salmon

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 lemons: Lemons add a bright and refreshing flavor to the salmon, enhancing its natural richness. One lemon is sliced thinly to be placed underneath the fish while it bakes, infusing the salmon with its citrusy aroma. The other lemon is cut into wedges to be served alongside the finished dish for an extra burst of fresh flavor.
• 8 to 10 sprigs fresh parsley, plus 1 tablespoon chopped: Fresh parsley is used to infuse the fish with a mild, slightly peppery flavor. The sprigs are placed underneath the salmon during baking, while the chopped parsley is used as a garnish to add a pop of color and freshness when the dish is served.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Olive oil helps to keep the salmon moist and tender while adding a rich, slightly fruity flavor. It’s drizzled over the fish before baking, helping to create a beautifully crisp exterior while keeping the inside moist and flaky.
• 1 2-pound whole skin-on side of wild salmon: The star of the dish is the salmon itself. Opt for a wild-caught variety, such as sockeye or coho, for the best flavor. The skin helps to keep the fish intact while baking, ensuring that it doesn’t dry out.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Kosher salt is the ideal choice for seasoning the salmon, as it helps to bring out the natural flavors of the fish without overpowering it. The salt is applied to the flesh side of the salmon before baking.
• Fresh black pepper, to taste: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick to the salmon, enhancing the overall flavor without competing with the other ingredients.
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped: Dill has a distinctive flavor that’s both refreshing and aromatic, making it the perfect herb to complement the richness of the salmon. It’s sprinkled on top of the fish just before serving.
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped: Chives add a mild, onion-like flavor that pairs beautifully with the other herbs in this recipe. Their delicate texture makes them an excellent garnish for the baked salmon.

How to Prepare and Bake Salmon: Step-by-Step

Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s dive into the preparation and baking process. Follow these steps to create a delicious, perfectly baked salmon that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet

Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature will ensure that the salmon cooks quickly and evenly, resulting in a perfectly flaky texture. While the oven heats up, line a large sheet pan with parchment paper. The parchment paper will prevent the fish from sticking to the pan and help with easy cleanup.

Step 2: Slice the Lemons

Take one of the lemons and slice it into thin rounds. These lemon slices will form a bed for the salmon to rest on during baking. The lemon slices will infuse the fish with a subtle citrusy aroma as it bakes, contributing to the overall flavor of the dish. The second lemon will be cut into wedges to serve on the side once the salmon is ready.

Step 3: Arrange the Lemon Slices and Parsley Sprigs

Place the lemon slices in the center of the prepared sheet pan. Arrange them in a single layer, ensuring that they are just under where the salmon fillet will sit. Next, add the fresh parsley sprigs on top of the lemon slices. The parsley will provide an aromatic base for the salmon to cook on, as well as impart a gentle herbal note to the fish.

Step 4: Prepare the Salmon

Now it’s time to prepare the salmon. Place the salmon fillet skin-side down on the sheet pan, directly over the lemon slices and parsley. Drizzle 1 teaspoon of olive oil over the top of the fish, making sure to coat the flesh evenly. Use your hands to rub the olive oil into the salmon, ensuring it’s well covered. Season the fish with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.

Step 5: Roast the Salmon

Transfer the prepared sheet pan to the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon. The fish should be cooked through in the center, and the thickest part of the fillet should easily flake apart with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the salmon, as it can become dry. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to slightly undercook the fish, as it will continue to cook as it rests.

Step 6: Add Fresh Herbs and Serve

Once the salmon is perfectly cooked, remove it from the oven and sprinkle it with fresh dill and chives. These herbs will add a burst of color and a fragrant, herbaceous note that complements the fish beautifully. Serve the salmon with the lemon wedges on the side, allowing your guests to squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for an extra tangy kick.

Flavors, Textures, and Aromas: What to Expect

As you take your first bite of this baked salmon, you’ll immediately notice the delicate balance of flavors. The fish itself is tender and flaky, with a rich, buttery texture that melts in your mouth. The lemon slices underneath the salmon infuse the fish with a subtle citrusy aroma, adding brightness without overpowering the natural flavor of the salmon. The herbs—parsley, dill, and chives—lend a fresh and aromatic quality to the dish, creating a well-rounded flavor profile that’s both satisfying and light.

The crispy skin of the salmon adds a delightful contrast to the tender flesh, providing a satisfying crunch with each bite. The olive oil helps to keep the fish moist and flavorful, while the salt and pepper provide a simple seasoning that lets the other ingredients shine.

Overall, this baked salmon recipe delivers a meal that’s both comforting and refreshing, with the perfect balance of rich flavors and fresh, bright notes.

Tips for Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

While this baked salmon recipe is already packed with delicious ingredients, there are several ways to customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

• Herb Substitutions: If you don’t have fresh dill or chives on hand, you can substitute with other herbs like tarragon, thyme, or basil. Each of these herbs will bring its own unique flavor to the dish, so feel free to experiment with what you have available.
• Salmon Alternatives: While wild salmon is highly recommended for its flavor and nutritional value, you can also use other types of fish like trout, cod, or halibut. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the type of fish you choose.
• Lemon Alternatives: If you prefer a different citrus flavor, you can use lime or orange slices in place of the lemon. The citrus will still provide a bright and refreshing contrast to the rich salmon.
• Serving Suggestions: This baked salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, quinoa, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. For a more indulgent option, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or creamy risotto.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try This Baked Salmon Recipe

This baked salmon recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors, tender texture, and elegant presentation. It’s the kind of recipe that’s easy enough for weeknight dinners but sophisticated enough for special occasions.

With minimal preparation and just a few key ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both healthy and indulgent, making this baked salmon a versatile and timeless dish that belongs in every home cook’s recipe collection. Try it for yourself, and you’ll quickly see why baked salmon is such a beloved dish in kitchens around the world.