Are you ready to transform an ordinary salmon fillet into a restaurant-quality masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds? This high heat baked salmon recipe is your ticket to a quick, delicious, and foolproof meal that takes just 15 minutes from start to finish. Imagine crispy, golden edges, a perfectly tender interior, and a burst of flavor that will make you feel like a professional chef - all without hours of complicated preparation!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). This high temperature will help create a crispy exterior while keeping the salmon moist and tender.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures better browning and prevents steaming.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Lightly grease the surface with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Brush each salmon fillet evenly with olive oil, ensuring complete coverage. This helps promote even cooking and adds flavor.
- Season the salmon generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. For extra flavor, consider adding dried herbs like dill or thyme.
- Arrange the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other. This allows heat to circulate and cook the fish evenly.
- Place lemon slices on top of or around the salmon fillets to infuse subtle citrus flavor during cooking.
- Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- Check the salmon's doneness by testing with a fork. The fish should flake easily and appear opaque in the center. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill if desired. Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes.
Tips
- Pat the salmon fillets completely dry before cooking - this is the secret to achieving that coveted golden-brown crust.
- Use a high-quality, fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture. Look for bright, firm fillets with a vibrant color.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet. Give each fillet enough space to ensure even cooking and proper heat circulation.
- Invest in an instant-read meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked salmon every time. The ideal internal temperature is 145°F.
- Experiment with different herb combinations - try rosemary, thyme, or a Mediterranean blend to keep the recipe exciting.
- If you prefer a more pronounced lemon flavor, consider adding a quick squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving.
- Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum moisture and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 431kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 39g
Fat: 29g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 112mg
