Name: Lemon Herb Baked Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each): Fresh or thawed.; 2 tablespoons olive oil: For moisture and flavor.; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and acidity.; 2 cloves garlic, minced: For a savory kick.; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped: A classic pairing with salmon.; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: For freshness.; Salt and black pepper: To taste.; Lemon slices: For garnish and added flavor.

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Are you looking for a quick and healthy dinner option that’s bursting with flavor? Lemon Herb Baked Salmon might just be your new go-to recipe! Did you know that salmon is not only delicious but also packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health? In this post, we’ll dive into the details of making this easy, flavorful dish that takes just 30 minutes from prep to plate.

Ingredients List

To prepare Lemon Herb Baked Salmon, gather the following ingredients:

4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each): Fresh or thawed.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For moisture and flavor.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and acidity.
2 cloves garlic, minced: For a savory kick.
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped: A classic pairing with salmon.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: For freshness.
Salt and black pepper: To taste.
Lemon slices: For garnish and added flavor.

Substitutions:

Dill Substitute: Use fresh tarragon or thyme if you don’t have dill on hand.
Olive Oil Alternative: Avocado oil can be used for a different flavor profile.
Garlic Powder: If fresh garlic isn’t available, use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your salmon cooks evenly and develops a nice, flaky texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dill, parsley, salt, and black pepper. This fragrant mixture will infuse your salmon with incredible flavor.

Step 3: Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a baking dish, skin-side down. Pour the marinade over the salmon, ensuring each fillet is well-coated. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

Arrange lemon slices on top of the salmon for added flavor and visual appeal. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (one salmon fillet):

Calories: 350
Protein: 34g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g

Insights:

Salmon is an excellent source of protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you want to make your Lemon Herb Baked Salmon even healthier, consider these modifications:

Reduce Oil: Use less olive oil or substitute with a light spray for fewer calories.
Add Vegetables: Bake the salmon on a bed of asparagus or zucchini to increase vegetable intake.
Whole Grain Side: Serve with quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Herb Baked Salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions:

With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the salmon perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts roasted alongside the salmon create a colorful and nutritious plate.
Couscous or Rice: Serve with lemon-infused couscous or brown rice for a wholesome meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Salmon: Keep an eye on the cooking time; salmon is best when it’s still moist and flaky.
Not Using Fresh Herbs: Dried herbs can work, but fresh herbs provide a much brighter flavor.
Skipping the Marinade: Allowing the salmon to marinate enhances the flavor significantly, so don’t skip this step!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Refrigeration: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooked salmon in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out the fish.

Conclusion

In summary, Lemon Herb Baked Salmon is a quick, healthy, and delicious meal option that anyone can make. With minimal ingredients and steps, you can enjoy a gourmet dish at home. Try this recipe tonight and let us know how it turns out in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe for more tasty recipes and cooking tips!

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and baking.

Q2: What can I substitute for lemon juice?

Lime juice can be used as an alternative for a different citrus flavor.

Q3: How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C