Name: Baked Salmon Recipe: Tender and Flavorful
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each); 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest; 1 tsp oregano; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp pepper; 1 tbsp fresh dill; Parchment or cooking spray; Optional: Dill sprigs (lemon wedges); Suggested Pairings: Asparagus (wine)

Introduction

Baked Salmon is a classic, healthy dish, perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or gatherings with friends. Its tender, flaky texture and bright lemon-herb flavor deliver a light yet satisfying meal. Served on a white ceramic platter, garnished with fresh dill and lemon wedges, this salmon creates a vibrant, inviting aesthetic. This recipe delivers a classic Baked Salmon, adaptable for dietary preferences, best served hot for a fresh, elegant experience.

Ingredients

For the Baked Salmon:

4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh, chopped)
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp chopped fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried)

Baking:

Parchment paper or cooking spray

For Serving:

Optional: Fresh dill sprigs, lemon wedges
Suggested Accompaniments: Roasted asparagus, mashed potatoes
Suggested Pairings: Side salad, white wine
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic platter
Suggested Equipment: Baking sheet, small bowl

Step-by-Step Process

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat with cooking spray.
Prepare Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt, pepper, and chopped dill until combined.
Season Salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Place on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if using skin-on fillets. Brush or spoon the seasoning mixture evenly over the top of each fillet.
Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Thicker fillets may need 1-2 additional minutes.
Serve: Transfer salmon to a white ceramic platter. Garnish with fresh dill sprigs and lemon wedges. Serve hot with roasted asparagus, mashed potatoes, salad, and white wine.

Tips for Better Baked Salmon

Choose fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor; wild-caught is often leaner, while farm-raised is fattier.
Pat the salmon dry to ensure seasoning adheres and prevents steaming.
Check doneness with a fork or thermometer; overcooking dries out salmon.
Use fresh lemon juice and zest for a brighter flavor; bottled is less vibrant.
Let salmon rest for 2-3 minutes after baking to retain juices.
Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Adjust seasoning to taste; add more lemon for extra tang.
Enhance aesthetic: Arrange dill sprigs neatly, place lemon wedges artfully, and serve on a white ceramic platter for a vibrant look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Baked Salmon: Naturally gluten-free; ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Spicy Baked Salmon: Add 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes or 1/2 tsp chili powder to the seasoning mix.
Maple Glazed Salmon: Replace lemon juice with 1 tbsp maple syrup and omit oregano.
Pesto Baked Salmon: Spread 1 tbsp pesto over each fillet instead of the seasoning mix.
Vegan Alternative: Replace salmon with tofu steaks, press, and marinate in the same seasoning.
Herb-Crusted Salmon: Add 2 tbsp breadcrumbs mixed with herbs to the top before baking.
Asian-Inspired Salmon: Use 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, and 1 tsp grated ginger instead of lemon and herbs.
Low-Sodium Salmon: Reduce salt to 1/4 tsp and use low-sodium ingredients.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days.
Reheat gently in a 300°F oven for 8-10 minutes or microwave for 30-60 seconds to avoid drying.
Freeze cooked salmon, wrapped tightly, for 2 months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Serve hot for the best texture; cold salmon is great for salads.
Use leftovers in wraps, salads, or pasta dishes.
Don’t leave at room temperature for over 2 hours.
Pair with light sides, like asparagus, to balance richness.
Presented on a white ceramic platter with dill and lemon for elegant charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 4 servings (1 fillet each):

Calories: 320 kcal
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 360mg
Total Carbohydrates: 1g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 0g
Protein: 28g
Vitamin A: 6% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 8% Daily Value
Calcium: 4% Daily Value
Iron: 6% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by brand. These are high in protein and omega-3s; try the low-sodium version. Serve with vegetables for balance.

Conclusion

This Baked Salmon recipe offers a tender, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. It turns simple ingredients into a classic. Its easy preparation and elegant presentation make it a favorite. The flaky texture and zesty seasoning, with vibrant garnishes, delight every time. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its healthy appeal.