Baked Lemon Salmon: Unleash a Flavor Explosion in Just 30 Minutes

There’s something truly magical about the smell of baked lemon salmon wafting through the kitchen. I remember my first attempt at making this dish, feeling both excited and slightly intimidated. The fresh aroma of lemon and garlic mingling with the rich scent of salmon created an atmosphere that was nothing short of inviting.

Baked lemon salmon quickly became a staple in my kitchen. It’s not just the simplicity of the ingredients but the way these flavors come together to create something extraordinary. Each time I prepare this dish, I’m reminded of the joy in crafting meals that bring people together.

This recipe for baked lemon salmon is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. It’s a testament to how a few ingredients can transform into a delightful meal with minimal effort. Let’s dive into the process of preparing this comforting and flavorful dish.

Baked Lemon Salmon

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

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Description

Learn how to make delicious Baked Lemon Salmon with this easy recipe. Perfect for a healthy and flavorful meal. Try it today!

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Ingredients

• – 2 pounds (900 g) salmon fillet
• – Salt
• – 1 large lemon
• – Chopped parsley, for garnish
• – 2 large lemons
• – 3 tablespoons (45 ml) vegetable oil
• – 5 garlic cloves, chopped
• – 2 teaspoons (10 ml) dried oregano
• – 1 teaspoon (5 ml) smoked paprika
• – 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) black pepper

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Instructions

1. Prepare for cooking. Arrange one oven rack in the middle position and another about 6 inches below the broiler. Set your oven to preheat at 375°F. Cover a baking sheet with a long strip of foil, ensuring it’s large enough to wrap around the salmon. Lightly coat the foil with vegetable oil.
2. Create the lemon-garlic mixture. Grate the zest from one lemon into a small bowl or measuring cup, then squeeze in the juice from both lemons. Add the vegetable oil, chopped garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, and black pepper, and whisk everything together until well blended.
3. Get the salmon ready. Dab the salmon with a paper towel to dry it, then generously season both sides with salt. Lay it on the foil with the skin facing down. Gently pour the lemon-garlic mixture over the fish, folding the foil edges upwards to hold the liquid. Use a spoon or brush to distribute the sauce evenly over the salmon. Slice half of the last lemon into circles and the other half into wedges, placing the circles on top of the salmon.
4. Enclose the salmon. Lift and fold the free edge of the foil over the salmon, creating a tent with enough space to allow air between the foil and the lemon slices on top. Seal the foil by folding the edges together, trapping steam inside. If your foil isn’t long enough, tear another piece and crimp them together to cover the salmon fully.
5. Cook the salmon. Place it in the preheated oven and let it bake until the thickest part is nearly done, which should take around 15 to 20 minutes.
6. Finish under the broiler. Carefully take the baking sheet out of the oven and unfold the foil to expose the top of the salmon. Set your broiler to high and place the salmon underneath for a short time, just until the top becomes lightly golden and the fish is fully cooked, roughly 3 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent overcooking or burning the lemons and garlic. Take the salmon out of the oven.
7. Present the dish. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the salmon and serve it with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

• Season the salmon generously with salt to enhance the flavors of the lemon-garlic mixture.
• Ensure the foil tent is tightly sealed to trap steam and keep the salmon moist and flavorful.
• Watch the salmon closely under the broiler to avoid burning the lemons and garlic, aiming for a light golden finish.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Unknown

Nutrition

• Calories: Unknown
• Fat: Unknown
• Protein: Unknown

Keywords: lemon garlic salmon, baked salmon, oven-broiled salmon, garlic herb salmon, lemon herb salmon

Baked Lemon Salmon Delight

Fundamentals

The foundation of any great dish lies in understanding its core ingredients. For baked lemon salmon, the star of the show is undoubtedly the salmon fillet. Opt for fresh, high-quality salmon to ensure a tender and flavorful result. The lemon, garlic, and herbs complement the rich, buttery texture of the salmon, elevating its natural flavors.

Seasoning plays a crucial role in enhancing the taste. Salt and black pepper are essential, while dried oregano and smoked paprika add depth and warmth. The lemon-garlic mixture acts as a marinade, infusing the salmon with vibrant citrus notes.

Preparation/setup

Preparing the salmon involves a few simple steps. Begin by organizing your workspace and preheating your oven to 375°F. Ensuring your baking sheet is ready with a foil covering prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Lightly oiling the foil ensures the salmon doesn’t adhere during cooking.

The lemon-garlic mixture is the next step. Grate zest from one lemon and combine it with the juice from two lemons, vegetable oil, chopped garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, and black pepper. This mixture will impart flavor and moisture to the salmon during baking.

Cooking Tips for Baked Lemon Salmon

Technique

The secret to perfectly baked lemon salmon lies in balancing heat and time. Place the salmon on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down, and pour the lemon-garlic mixture over it. The foil tent traps steam, ensuring even cooking and infusing the fish with flavor.

Cooking the salmon on the middle rack allows for gentle, even heat distribution. This method ensures the salmon remains juicy while developing a beautiful, flaky texture. Finishing under the broiler crisps up the top, adding a delightful contrast to the tender interior.

Tips/tricks

For added flavor, consider marinating the salmon in the lemon-garlic mixture for 30 minutes before baking. This step enhances the citrus notes and allows the garlic and herbs to penetrate the fish further.

To prevent overcooking, keep a close eye on the salmon during the broiling stage. The goal is a golden top without burning the lemon slices or garlic. Using a meat thermometer can ensure your salmon reaches the perfect internal temperature.

Achieving Perfect Baked Lemon Salmon

Perfecting results

The key to flawless baked lemon salmon lies in attention to detail. Ensure the salmon is thoroughly dried before seasoning, as this helps the salt and spices adhere better. Distributing the lemon-garlic mixture evenly ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Creating a foil tent is crucial for maintaining moisture. This method retains the fish’s natural juices while allowing the lemon and garlic to infuse the salmon. The result is a perfectly moist and flavorful dish.

Troubleshooting/variations

If you find your salmon is cooking unevenly, check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy. For those who enjoy experimenting, consider adding a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick or incorporating fresh herbs like dill or thyme for additional depth.

Incorporating seasonal vegetables like asparagus can make this dish even more wholesome. For inspiration, check out asparagus and lemon basil ricotta stuffed salmon rolls for a creative twist.

Serving and Enjoying Baked Lemon Salmon

Serving/presentation

Presentation is key when serving baked lemon salmon. Once baked, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve the salmon with lemon wedges, allowing each guest to add an extra squeeze of citrus if desired.

Pair the salmon with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. For dessert, consider something light and citrusy, like mini lemon tarts, to continue the lemon theme.

Pairings/storage

Baked lemon salmon pairs beautifully with grains like quinoa or couscous. For a delightful breakfast option, try serving leftovers with lemon yogurt pancakes.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain the salmon’s texture and flavor. For more storage tips, explore Mediterranean baked cod with olives for inspiration.

Conclusion

Crafting a dish like baked lemon salmon highlights the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients. The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs with tender salmon makes for a meal that’s both satisfying and impressive. This recipe demonstrates how a few steps and thoughtful preparation can transform a dish into a memorable experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to the kitchen, baked lemon salmon offers an approachable yet elegant option that’s sure to delight. Its versatility allows for endless serving possibilities, from casual dinners to elegant gatherings. Embrace the simplicity and flavor of this delightful dish, making it a staple in your culinary repertoire.

FAQs – Baked Lemon Salmon