– **Title**: Oven Baked Salmon
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
– Lemon slices for garnish
– Fresh parsley for garnish
– **Instructions**:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano (if using).
4. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin side down.
5. Brush the olive oil mixture generously over each salmon fillet, ensuring they are well coated.
6. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
7. Remove from the oven and let rest for a couple of minutes.
8. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley before serving.
9. Enjoy the salmon with your choice of sides, such as steamed vegetables or rice!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for this recipe. However, you can use frozen fillets—just make sure they are thawed completely before cooking. If you prefer, other fish like trout or steelhead could be used too!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, avocado oil works well too. For a different taste, you might even try a flavored oil, like garlic-infused olive oil.
Honey: Honey gives a nice sweetness that balances the mustard. If you need a vegan option, maple syrup is a perfect swap. Agave nectar is another suitable substitute if you have it on hand.
Dijon Mustard: Dijon adds a tangy kick. If you don’t have it, yellow mustard can be used, but it will change the flavor slightly. You might also mix a bit of mustard powder with water as a quick alternative.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika is fine, but you’ll miss that smoky depth. Try adding a dash of cayenne for some heat, if you like it spicy!
How Do I Ensure My Salmon Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking salmon to the right doneness is key. The best way is to bake it at a consistent temperature and keep an eye on the time. Here’s what to do:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for even cooking.
- Check the salmon after about 12 minutes; it should start to flake with a fork.
- For precision, use a food thermometer; the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C).
- If you want a crispy top, broil it for the last few minutes. Just watch it closely as it can burn quickly!
How to Make Oven Baked Salmon?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake. If you choose to broil for a crispy top, add an extra 2-3 minutes. In total, you can expect about 20 minutes from start to finish. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your salmon cooks evenly. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil to make cleanup easy later on.
2. Make the Flavorful Mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, minced garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix it until everything is well combined and smooth.
3. Prepare the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the baking sheet you prepared. Take the flavorful mixture you made and generously brush it over each salmon fillet, making sure to cover them nicely.
4. Bake the Salmon:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the salmon for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the fish flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!
5. Add a Crispy Finish (Optional):
If you want a crispy top, switch your oven to broil and cook the salmon for an additional 2-3 minutes. Just keep watching to prevent burning!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the salmon from the oven. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch and serve. Enjoy your delicious oven-baked salmon!
Can I Substitute Maple Syrup for Honey?
Absolutely! Maple syrup is a great alternative to honey in this recipe. Just use the same amount, and you’ll still get that delicious sweetness. If you want to keep it vegan, maple syrup is the perfect choice!
What Should I Do If My Salmon is Frozen?
If your salmon fillets are frozen, it’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for optimal texture. If you’re short on time, you can place the sealed fillets in cold water for about 30 minutes. Once thawed, pat them dry with paper towels before cooking to achieve a better sear.
How Do I Store Leftover Salmon?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can make the salmon dry!
Can I Use Fresh Herbs Instead of Dried?
Yes, fresh herbs will add a beautiful flavor! If using fresh oregano and thyme, use about three times the amount of dried since they are less concentrated. Chop them finely and mix them into the sauce for a vibrant touch!
