Easy Baked Salmon

There’s nothing quite like a perfectly cooked piece of salmon. My easy baked salmon recipe delivers just that — moist, tender fish with a subtly savory crust. This dish truly shines with its simplicity. It’s a go-to for those busy weeknights.

I often make this simple salmon when I need a healthy meal without a lot of fuss. It’s a fantastic way to get healthy omega-3s on the table fast. My family always loves this quick salmon preparation.

Why I Love This Easy Baked Salmon Recipe

This easy baked salmon reigns supreme in my kitchen for so many reasons!

• Speedy Weeknights: It’s unbelievably quick.
• Amazing Flavor: The garlic and paprika combo is divine.
• Impressive Yet Simple: It looks elegant but is totally foolproof.
• Healthy & Delicious: A truly guilt-free meal.

This oven baked salmon is a game-changer for busy moms and professionals.

Easy Baked Salmon Ingredients

Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun. This simple salmon recipe relies on a few pantry staples and fresh additions for big flavor. The magic happens when these humble items come together.

• Salmon Fillets: The star of the show! Aim for about 6 ounces per person.
• Olive Oil: Our flavor base. It helps the seasonings stick beautifully.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for bringing out all the natural flavors.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a wonderful savory depth without burning.
• Paprika: For a touch of color and gentle warmth.
• Lemon: Offers a bright, fresh zest and adds moisture.
• Fresh Dill: The perfect aromatic finish.

Substitutions and Tips

Don’t have dill? Fresh parsley makes a lovely substitute. For a little extra zing, try a pinch of onion powder in your spice mix. You can also add a splash of white wine to the baking sheet before cooking for a richer sauce. Remember, all the exact measurements are in the printable recipe card below!

How to Make Easy Baked Salmon

SAVE

Let’s get cooking! Making this delicious, oven baked salmon is a breeze. Follow these simple steps for a fantastic meal.

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

First, preheat your oven. Aim for 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for baking fish quickly. You’ll also want to prepare a baking sheet. Lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil makes cleanup so much easier. Trust me on this one!

Step 2: Get the Salmon Ready

Now, let’s prep those salmon fillets. Gently pat them dry with paper towels. This little step makes a big difference. It helps create a better texture on your simple salmon. Then, place them on your prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Add the Flavor Base

Time for some healthy fats. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over each salmon fillet. This base helps all those wonderful seasonings stick and mingle. It also adds a lovely richness to your easy baked salmon.

Step 4: Season the Salmon

In a small bowl, I mix my salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This simple spice blend is key to the garlic paprika salmon flavor. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of each fillet. Ensure good coverage for maximum taste.

Step 5: Add Lemon

Let’s brighten things up. Place a few thin lemon slices right on top of each fillet. You can also tuck them around the salmon on the baking sheet. This adds a whisper of citrus and keeps the fish moist.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Into the oven it goes! Bake for about 12 to 15 minutes. You want the salmon cooked through. It should flake easily with a fork. Thicker fillets might need a minute or two longer. Your quick salmon is almost ready!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

The final flourish! Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle fresh dill over the top. This adds such a beautiful aroma and color. Serve your easy baked salmon right away. Enjoy every delicious bite!

How to Store Easy Baked Salmon

Leftover easy baked salmon keeps well. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze cooked salmon. Let it cool completely first. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Frozen salmon is best used within 2 months for optimal flavor. Reheat gently to avoid drying it out.

Tips for Success with Easy Baked Salmon

• Pat salmon completely dry before seasoning. This helps spices adhere better.
• Don’t overcook the fish. It should be opaque and flake easily.
• Taste your seasonings before applying them. Ensure they are balanced.
• For an extra crust, broil for the last minute. Watch carefully!
• Lemon slices add great flavor and moisture. Don’t skip them.
• Use fresh dill for the best aroma and taste.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need for Easy Baked Salmon

Having the right tools makes cooking even simpler. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Baking Sheet: Any standard baking sheet works.
• Parchment Paper or Foil: For easy cleanup.
• Small Bowl: To mix your spices.
• Measuring Spoons: For accurate seasoning.
• Paper Towels: For drying the salmon.

Serving Suggestions for Easy Baked Salmon

This easy baked salmon pairs wonderfully with so many dishes.

• Serve with roasted asparagus or green beans.
• A side of quinoa or fluffy rice is perfect.
• Consider a fresh, simple salad with a light vinaigrette.
• A crisp white wine complements the fish beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the salmon ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! Season your salmon fillets and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes this simple salmon recipe even quicker on a busy weeknight.

What if my salmon fillets are very thin or very thick?

For thinner fillets, check for doneness a bit earlier, around 10-12 minutes. Thicker pieces might need a few extra minutes, up to 18. The key is that the easy baked salmon should flake easily. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I substitute the herbs or spices?

Definitely! While dill is wonderful, fresh parsley is a great alternative. If you don’t have garlic powder, a little fresh minced garlic works too, though it might brown faster. Feel free to experiment with other dried herbs you love!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

This easy baked salmon is perfect for meal prep. Once cooked and cooled, store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It holds up beautifully for 2-3 days and can be enjoyed cold or gently reheated for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

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