Juicy Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe for Dinner Tonight

Swimming through culinary adventures, this baked salmon recipe promises a delightful journey for seafood enthusiasts.

Tender fish meets vibrant seasonings in a simple yet elegant preparation.

Mediterranean influences shine through with carefully selected herbs and spices.

Weeknight dinners gain a touch of gourmet excitement with minimal effort.

Nutritious and flavorful, the dish emerges from your oven golden and succulent.

Fresh ingredients create magic on your plate, turning an ordinary meal into something extraordinary.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of this mouthwatering creation.

Baked Salmon FAQs

• How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

Look for a flaky texture when you gently press a fork into the thickest part of the fish. The salmon should easily separate and reach an internal temperature of 145F (63C). The color will change from translucent to opaque pink.

• Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but first thaw the salmon completely in the refrigerator overnight. Pat the fish dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure a crispy exterior and prevent excess moisture.

• What if I don't have Italian seasoning?

You can make your own by mixing dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. Alternatively, use dried herbs you have on hand or simply season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

• Is it necessary to remove the salmon skin before baking?

No, you can leave the skin on. Baking with the skin helps keep the fish moist and prevents it from sticking to the baking sheet. The skin will become crispy and can be easily removed after cooking if desired.

Baked Salmon That’s Simple and Succulent

• Transforms ordinary salmon into a gourmet meal in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy home cooks craving delicious dinner solutions.
• The simple marinade packs incredible taste without complicated techniques, ensuring even beginner cooks can achieve restaurant-quality results.
• Delivers lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids with minimal effort, supporting nutritious eating goals without sacrificing flavor or convenience.
• Pairs effortlessly with multiple side dishes like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or salad, making it an adaptable recipe for different dietary preferences and meal styles.

Ingredients for Flavorful Oven-Roasted Salmon

• Salmon Fillets: Tender and delicate fish that forms the heart of the dish, best when fresh and of high quality.

• Olive Oil, Lemon Juice: Helps create moisture and bright, tangy flavor for the salmon.
• Garlic: Adds depth and aromatic punch to the overall taste.
• Italian Seasoning, Paprika: Provides complex herbal and slightly smoky undertones.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing and balancing the dish's flavors.

• Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous note.
• Lemon Wedges: Provides optional extra citrus brightness when serving.

Baking Instructions for Tender, Flaky Fish

Step 1: Warm Up The Cooking Space

Crank the oven to 375F (190C). Grab a baking sheet and cover it with parchment paper or give it a quick spray of cooking oil.

Step 2: Prepare The Fish

Grab paper towels and gently dry each salmon fillet. Place the fillets skin-side down on the prepped baking sheet.

Step 3: Create Flavor Explosion

• Olive oil
• Fresh lemon juice
• Crushed garlic
• Italian seasoning blend
• Paprika
• Sea salt
• Cracked black pepper

Whisk all ingredients until they dance together smoothly.

Step 4: Dress The Fish

Use a pastry brush to spread the marinade generously over each salmon fillet. Make sure every inch gets coated with the delicious mixture.

Step 5: Bake To Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the heated oven. Cook for 12-15 minutes until the salmon becomes flaky and tender. Check that the internal temperature hits 145F (63C).

Step 6: Final Touch

Pull the salmon from the oven. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. Serve with bright lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.

Tips for a Juicy Interior and Crisp Edges

• Customize Marinade Magic: Experiment with different herbs like dill, thyme, or rosemary to create unique flavor profiles that complement the salmon's richness.
• Achieve Perfectly Moist Salmon: Avoid overcooking by checking the internal temperature early and removing the fish when it just becomes opaque, ensuring a tender and juicy result.
• Elevate with Quick Garnishes: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts, capers, or a drizzle of herb-infused olive oil to add extra texture and depth to the simple baked salmon.
• Select Premium Fish: Choose fresh, wild-caught salmon with vibrant color and firm flesh for the best taste and nutritional value, preferably from trusted seafood markets.
• Adapt for Dietary Needs: Swap olive oil with coconut aminos for a soy-free option, or use dairy-free butter alternatives to make the recipe suitable for various dietary restrictions.

Best Way to Store and Reheat Baked Salmon

• Store leftover salmon in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping it fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Warm salmon in the oven at 275F for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out and maintain moisture.
• Skip microwave reheating to prevent tough, rubbery texture; oven method preserves delicate salmon quality.
• Check internal temperature reaches 165F when reheating to ensure food safety and enjoy the same delicious flavor.

What to Serve with Your Salmon Dish

• Crisp Sauvignon Blanc perfectly complements the salmon's rich texture, cutting through its buttery profile with bright, citrusy notes.
• Pair with a light quinoa salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette, adding zesty freshness that enhances the fish's delicate seasoning.
• Serve alongside roasted asparagus sprinkled with dill, mirroring the recipe's Italian seasoning and providing a green vegetable complement.
• Include a creamy garlic aioli as a dipping sauce, which echoes the marinade's garlic notes while adding luxurious smoothness to each salmon bite.

Marinade and Glaze Variations

• Herb-Crusted Salmon: Replace Italian seasoning with a blend of fresh dill, chives, and thyme for a vibrant herbal flavor profile.
• Spicy Cajun Salmon: Swap Italian seasoning for Cajun seasoning and add a pinch of cayenne pepper to create a bold, zesty kick.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all seasonings and ingredients are certified gluten-free, perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Low-Sodium Version: Use fresh herbs instead of salt, and opt for low-sodium alternatives to reduce overall sodium content while maintaining delicious taste.

Baked Salmon Recipe

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4.5 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Delightful Baked Salmon emerges as a Mediterranean-inspired culinary treasure, blending fresh herbs and zesty lemon. Crisp exterior and succulent interior promise a memorable dining experience you’ll savor with each delectable bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces/170 grams each, skin on or off)

Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)

Liquid Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• Lemon wedges (for garnish)
• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Arrange oven rack in the middle position and heat to 375°F (190°C), creating an optimal cooking environment for the salmon. Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or a light coating of oil to prevent sticking.
2. Carefully dry salmon fillets using paper towels, eliminating excess moisture to ensure a crisp exterior. Position the fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking surface.
3. Craft a vibrant marinade by whisking olive oil, fresh lemon juice, finely minced garlic, aromatic Italian seasoning, warm paprika, delicate salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a small mixing bowl.
4. Generously brush the marinade across the salmon, ensuring complete coverage on the top and sides of each fillet. The marinade will infuse the fish with rich, layered flavors.
5. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven, allowing the salmon to roast for 12-15 minutes. Monitor the fish carefully, looking for a flaky texture when gently prodded with a fork and an internal temperature reaching 145°F (63°C).
6. Once cooked, carefully remove the salmon from the oven. Sprinkle with vibrant, freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added freshness. Accompany the dish with wedges of zesty lemon, allowing diners to enhance the flavor to their preference.

Notes

• Choose fresh, high-quality salmon for the most delicious and tender results, preferably wild-caught salmon with bright color and firm texture.
• Ensure salmon is patted completely dry before seasoning to help achieve a crispy exterior and prevent steaming instead of baking.
• Adjust cooking time based on salmon thickness – thicker fillets might need a few extra minutes, while thinner cuts cook faster to prevent overcooking.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices like dill, thyme, or smoked paprika to customize the marinade and create unique flavor profiles.
• For a low-carb and gluten-free option, this recipe naturally fits those dietary requirements without any modifications needed.
• If preparing for meal prep, store leftover salmon in an airtight container and consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness and taste.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 34 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg