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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
- 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