How To Bake Salmon In The Oven
Baking salmon is a popular and easy cooking method that results in a delicious and tender dish. This approach is particularly convenient for those who prefer a hands-off cooking process while still achieving a flavorful and moist result.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets
- Olive oil
- Salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges optional
- Fresh herbs such as cilantro, dill, parsley, or thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure the oven is fully heated before placing the salmon inside.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a crispy exterior during baking. If there are any pin bones, use tweezers to remove them.
- Brush both sides of the salmon fillets with olive oil. Season them generously with salt and pepper. The olive oil not only enhances the flavor but also helps the seasoning adhere to the fish.
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding lemon zest to the salmon. Zest a lemon and sprinkle it over the fillets.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Place the seasoned salmon fillets on the baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
- Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for approximately 12-15 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets. Aim for the salmon to flake easily with a fork but remains moist.
- To check for doneness, use a fork to gently pry apart the flakes in the thickest part of the salmon. If it easily flakes and is opaque in the center, it's ready.
- Once the salmon is out of the oven, garnish it with freshly chopped herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme. The herbs add a burst of freshness and complement the richness of the salmon.
- Plate the salmon fillets and serve them warm. Squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the top if desired for an extra layer of brightness.
- Serve along side lemon rice, and a vegetable side such as stir-fried broccoli or asparagus.
Notes
Tips for Baking Salmon:
When baking salmon fillets with skin, place them skin-side down on the baking sheet. This helps the skin crisp up nicely.
For even cooking, try to purchase salmon fillets with a uniform thickness. If they vary in thickness, some parts may be overcooked while others remain undercooked.
Experiment with Flavors:
Get creative with your seasoning. Consider adding spices like paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder for additional depth of flavor.