Imagine sinking your fork into a perfectly baked salmon fillet, where every bite bursts with aromatic herbs and garlic, creating a mouthwatering experience that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure. This Garlic Herb Baked Salmon isn't just a recipe - it's a game-changing technique that will elevate your home cooking skills and impress even the most discerning food lovers. Whether you're a seafood enthusiast or a novice cook looking to expand your repertoire, this foolproof method guarantees a delicious, restaurant-worthy meal in just 30 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Seafood
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasonings adhere better and ensures a crisp exterior.
- In a small bowl, mix minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, chopped parsley, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful herb mixture.
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the herb mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet, ensuring complete coverage.
- If desired, place lemon slices around or on top of the salmon for additional flavor and moisture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon 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 2-3 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, which helps maintain moisture.
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately with your choice of side dishes like roasted vegetables or rice.
Tips
- Always start with high-quality, fresh salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture.
- Pat the salmon completely dry before seasoning to ensure a crisp, golden exterior.
- Use fresh herbs instead of dried for maximum flavor intensity.
- Don't overcook! Salmon is best when it's still slightly translucent in the center.
- Let the salmon rest after cooking to help retain its moisture and juiciness.
- For extra flavor, experiment with adding lemon zest or a splash of white wine to the herb mixture.
- Choose salmon fillets of similar thickness to ensure even cooking.
- If you prefer a more golden top, briefly broil the salmon for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 36g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 95mg
