If you’re a seafood enthusiast searching for a mouthwatering dish that perfectly balances flavors and textures, this recipe will surely be a treat for your taste buds. Our Baked Salmon Recipe combines tender salmon fillets with a delectable blend of herbs and spices that will leave you craving more. Join us as we explore the step-by-step process of creating this delectable dish that is certain to impress both family and friends.
Choosing the Right Type of Salmon
Overview of different types of salmon available in the market
There are several types of salmon available in the market, but the most common types of salmon you’ll find are:
- Atlantic Salmon – This type of salmon is farmed and has a mild, buttery flavor. It’s often the most readily available type of salmon in supermarkets.
- Pacific Salmon – This type of salmon is wild-caught and has a stronger, more assertive flavor. It’s often considered superior for its richer taste and lower fat content.
- Sockeye Salmon – This type of salmon is also wild-caught and has a deep red color and firm texture. It has a bold flavor and is often used in sushi and other raw preparations.
Which type of salmon is best suited for baking?
When baking salmon, the best type of salmon to use is Pacific salmon, specifically coho or king salmon. These types of salmon have a higher fat content, which makes them more flavorful and moist when baked. They also have a firmer texture that holds up better during cooking.
Atlantic salmon can also be baked but is more delicate and can easily dry out if overcooked. If you bake Atlantic salmon, be mindful of the cooking time and temperature to avoid drying it out.
Common Mistakes To Avoid While Baking Salmon
- Not seasoning the fish before baking: Seasoning your salmon is essential to bring out its flavors. Season both sides of the salmon with salt, pepper, and other herbs and spices before placing it in the oven.
- Overcooking the fish: Overcooked salmon can be dry and tough, which is not appetizing. A general rule is to cook salmon for 10 minutes per inch of thickness.
- Using too much oil: It’s important to use some oil to prevent the salmon from sticking to the baking sheet, but it will make the salmon greasy.
- Not lining the baking sheet: If you don’t want the salmon to stick to the pan, line the baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Not resting the salmon: Resting the salmon for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute and the fish to firm up. This makes it easier to remove from the pan and keeps it moist and tender.
Tips and Techniques
How to test for doneness
- Check the internal temperature: The best way to check if your salmon is done is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the fillet; if it reads 145°F (63°C), it’s done.
- Flake test: If you don’t have a meat thermometer, use the flake test. Gently push a fork into the salmon and twist. If it easily flakes and is no longer translucent, it’s done.
Storage and reheating advice
- Store the leftovers: If you have any leftover salmon, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat properly: To reheat the salmon, place it on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Bake it in a 275°F (135°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated.
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Ideas For Pairing Baked Salmon With Side Dishes
- Grains Salads: Mix quinoa, bulgur, or couscous with colorful vegetables like roasted zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers. Add some nuts and dried fruits for extra crunch and sweetness.
- Vegetable Casseroles: Try putting together a dish with eggplant, tomatoes, and sweet potatoes sprinkled with garlic, thyme, and Parmesan cheese.
- Roasted Vegetables: Consider roasting some broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and mushrooms in your oven. Don’t forget to drizzle some olive oil and sprinkle your favorite spices before roasting.
- Pasta: Mix spaghetti with cherry tomatoes, garlic, basil, and lemon juice.
- Salad: Mix some greens with sliced fennel, oranges, and avocado. Add roasted almonds or sunflower seeds for crunch, and drizzle balsamic vinegar dressing.
Baked Salmon Recipe
Baked Salmon Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (preferably king salmon)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 lemon slices
- Fresh parsley and dill, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking dish with parchment paper or grease it.
- Take salmon fillets out of the fridge and let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.
- Melt butter in the microwave for 20 seconds or until it's melted but not hot.
- To the melted butter, add lemon juice and stir to combine.
- Brush the mixture all over the salmon fillets and sprinkle minced garlic on top.
- Add salt and pepper to taste and lay lemon slices all around the salmon.
- Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Once the salmon is out of the oven, garnish with fresh parsley and dill.
- Serve with your choice of sides, like creamy mashed potatoes and green beans.
- Enjoy your incredibly moist, flaky, and flavorful baked salmon!
Hey readers! Chip Holland here, and I’m a Manager of this website. My passion for writing about it only matches my passion for BBQ. Follow my blog for mouth-watering recipes, tips, and tricks for the perfect smoke, grill, and BBQ. I’m sure you won’t be disappointed!