Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is like a hug from the ocean, wrapping your taste buds in a cozy embrace of zesty, garlicky goodness. The moment you open your oven and inhale that fragrant aroma, you’ll feel like a culinary rock star—no cooking degree required. Understand our cooking guidelines This dish is perfect for impressing dinner guests or indulging in some much-needed self-care after a long day.
Picture this: you’ve had a hectic week filled with work meetings and errands, and now it’s time to unwind. You pull out your trusty baking dish, toss in some salmon fillets, and watch as they transform into a golden symphony of flavors. Whether it’s a casual Friday night or an elegant dinner party, this Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is sure to steal the show and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is not only incredibly easy to prepare; it also bursts with fresh flavor that’ll leave your taste buds dancing.
- The vibrant colors make it a stunning centerpiece for any meal, while its versatility means you can serve it with anything from rice to salad.
- Plus, it’s healthy enough to make your dietitian proud!
Ingredients for Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: Explore more delicious recipes.
-
Fresh Salmon Fillets: Look for bright pink fillets with no brown spots; they’re fresher and tastier.
-
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will give the best flavor, but pre-minced can work in a pinch.
-
Lemon Juice: Use fresh lemon juice for that zesty brightness; bottled juice just doesn’t cut it.
-
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness without overpowering the salmon’s delicate flavor.
-
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate the dish—don’t skip them!
-
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds freshness and color right before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. Get in touch for recipe suggestions.
How to Make Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). As the oven warms up, spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray so your salmon doesn’t stick like an awkward first date.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined. This mixture will be the superhero sauce that saves dry fish from doom.
Step 3: Marinate the Salmon
Place your salmon fillets in the baking dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them soak up all that garlicky goodness while you ponder life choices or scroll through social media.
Step 4: Bake Away
Put the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Learn more about my cooking style Pro tip: If you have a broiler setting, give it a minute under there at the end for a lovely golden top!
Step 5: Garnish
Remove the salmon from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. This final touch adds color and freshness—like putting on that last dab of perfume before heading out. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes recipe.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer to plates alongside your favorite sides. Drizzle any leftover marinade over each serving for an extra punch of flavor—the more garlic, the better!
Now that you have mastered this technique for Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon, get ready to wow friends and family—or simply treat yourself! Enjoy every bite as if it’s your own little piece of culinary heaven.
You Must Know
- The Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is not just a dish; it’s an experience!
- With its zesty flavors and flaky texture, this salmon will steal the show at dinner.
- Quick to prepare and healthy, it’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special celebrations.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the salmon in lemon juice and garlic for at least 30 minutes. While it soaks up those delicious flavors, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for about 15-20 minutes for perfectly cooked salmon that melts in your mouth.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the garlic for shallots or add a sprinkle of dill for an herbal twist. You can also try different citrus fruits like lime or orange if you want to mix things up. Don’t forget to throw in some veggies alongside your salmon for a complete meal.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, ensuring it stays moist and tender.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For juicy Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon, always opt for fresh over frozen fish whenever possible.
- Don’t skip marinating; it enhances flavor dramatically.
- Lastly, use a meat thermometer; target 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness.
It’s funny how I once made this dish for a dinner party, and everyone raved about it. My friend even asked if I had a seafood secret! Spoiler alert: It was just good old lemon and garlic magic!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon?
To prepare Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon, you will need fresh salmon fillets, garlic, lemons, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Optional ingredients include fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added flavor. Make sure to choose high-quality salmon for the best taste. The simplicity of the ingredients enhances the natural flavors of the salmon while providing a delightful dish that is both healthy and delicious.
How long does it take to bake Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon?
Baking Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes in a preheated oven set at 400°F (200°C). The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets. To ensure perfect doneness, check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This quick cooking process makes it an ideal meal option for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. For more inspiration, check out this Roasted Asparagus Garlic Butter Potatoes recipe.
Can I use frozen salmon for Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon for Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon. However, it is essential to thaw the salmon properly before baking. You can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or place it in a sealed bag under cold running water for about 30 minutes. Once thawed, season and bake as you would with fresh salmon. This method ensures that your dish retains its moisture and flavor.
What sides pair well with Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon?
Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon pairs wonderfully with various side dishes like roasted vegetables, quinoa, rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad. For a Mediterranean twist, consider serving it alongside couscous or grilled asparagus. These sides complement the citrus and garlic flavors of the salmon while creating a well-rounded meal that is both satisfying and nutritious.
Conclusion for Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon:
Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is an easy yet flavorful dish that highlights the natural essence of salmon through simple ingredients. The key points include using fresh garlic and lemons to enhance taste while ensuring that cooking time remains quick and efficient. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this delightful meal with your favorite sides for a complete dining experience!
Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon
Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is a quick, flavorful dish that combines fresh salmon with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for impressing dinner guests or enjoying a cozy night in. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a healthy meal that’s nutritious and satisfying. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for a culinary experience that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 (6 oz) fresh salmon fillets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Place salmon fillets in the baking dish and pour the marinade over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. For a golden finish, broil for an additional minute if desired.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve alongside your favorite sides.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g)
- Calories: 367
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 39 g
- Cholesterol: 112 mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider substituting garlic with shallots or adding fresh herbs like dill. - To ensure moist salmon, avoid overcooking; aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). - Pair with roasted vegetables or quinoa for a complete meal.
Leave a Comment