Get ready to transform your dinner game with Sara's Baked Side of Salmon - a recipe so simple yet so incredibly delicious that it'll make you feel like a professional chef in your own kitchen! Imagine serving up a perfectly cooked, golden-crusted salmon that's bursting with lemony, herbal flavors, and so tender it practically melts in your mouth. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a gourmet meal, this foolproof recipe is about to become your new go-to seafood sensation.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Seafood
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 side of salmon (about 2 lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dill
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Pat the salmon side dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better crust and even cooking.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dill, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
- Place the salmon skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring it's in a single layer.
- Brush the marinade evenly over the entire surface of the salmon, making sure to coat it completely for maximum flavor.
- Arrange lemon slices on top of the salmon for additional citrus aroma and visual appeal.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Garnish with fresh dill or additional lemon slices before serving.
Tips
- Pat the salmon completely dry before cooking - this is the secret to achieving that gorgeous, crispy exterior.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness. Salmon is perfectly cooked at 145°F (63°C), which prevents it from becoming dry or tough.
- Don't skip the resting time! Letting the salmon rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking helps redistribute the juices, keeping the fish moist and tender.
- Choose fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture. Look for salmon with a bright, consistent color and firm flesh.
- If you want to add extra flavor, experiment with different herbs like fresh parsley or thyme alongside the dill.
- For a beautiful presentation, arrange lemon slices artfully on top of the salmon before baking - it not only looks stunning but adds a bright, citrusy aroma.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup and to prevent the salmon from sticking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 300kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 100mg
