Easy Oven-Baked Salmon Recipe: Perfectly Tender and Flaky Every Time
Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering around the dinner table every Sunday evening. One of the highlights of these meals was my mother’s oven-baked salmon, a dish that not only filled our bellies but also our hearts. The aroma of the fish baking in the oven would waft through the house, drawing us in like a warm hug. This recipe is a tribute to those cherished moments, and I’m excited to share it with you!
What Makes It Special
This oven-baked salmon recipe stands out for several reasons:
- Simple Ingredients: You don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients to create a delicious meal.
- Quick Preparation: With minimal prep time, you can have a healthy dinner on the table in no time.
- Perfectly Flaky: The oven method ensures that the salmon remains tender and flaky, making it a crowd-pleaser.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the flavors to suit your taste preferences.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15-20 minutes | Servings: 4
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like dill or parsley) for garnish
Let’s Get Cooking
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down.
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Drizzle olive oil over the fillets and sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
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Top each fillet with lemon slices.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
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Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
My Pro Tips
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For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the salmon in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before baking.
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If you prefer a crispy top, broil the salmon for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
What to Serve With It
- Steamed asparagus or green beans
- Quinoa or rice pilaf
- A fresh garden salad with vinaigrette
- A glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
A: Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
Q: How do I know when the salmon is done?
A: The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Why I Love This Recipe
This oven-baked salmon recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a reminder of family gatherings and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for special occasions. I hope it brings as much warmth and happiness to your table as it has to mine.
Your Turn
I invite you to try this recipe and make it your own! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices, and let me know how it turns out. I’d love to hear your feedback and any creative twists you come up with!
Easy Oven-Baked Salmon Recipe: Perfectly Tender and Flaky Every Time
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Steamed asparagus or green beans (for serving)
- Quinoa or rice pilaf (for serving)
- A fresh garden salad with vinaigrette (for serving)
- A glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down.
- Drizzle olive oil over the fillets and sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Top each fillet with lemon slices.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
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