Easy Baked Salmon With Lemon Recipe

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Introduction

Easy Baked Salmon with Lemon Recipe represents a cornerstone of simple yet elegant cooking. Salmon, celebrated for its rich flavor and nutritional benefits, becomes even more appealing when baked with the bright, zesty essence of lemon. This dishs popularity stems from its ease of preparation, minimal ingredients, and consistently delicious results. It is a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike, offering a healthy and satisfying meal option for any occasion.

Ingredients

The key to a superb Easy Baked Salmon with Lemon Recipe lies in the quality of the ingredients.

• Salmon Fillets: Skin-on or skin-off, about 6-8 ounces per serving. Fresh or previously frozen salmon can be used.
• Lemons: One to two lemons, depending on size. One lemon for juice and slices, another for additional garnish if desired.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling and preventing sticking.
• Salt: Sea salt or kosher salt to enhance the flavor.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper for a subtle spice.
• Optional Herbs: Fresh dill, parsley, or thyme sprigs for added aroma and flavor.
• Garlic: Minced garlic cloves for depth of flavor.

Substitutions: For a stronger citrus flavor, lime can be used in place of lemon. For a richer flavor, substitute butter for olive oil.

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation ensures even cooking and optimal flavor. Begin by preheating the oven to 400F (200C). Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture, which can steam the fish instead of allowing it to bake. Place each fillet on a piece of aluminum foil or parchment paper large enough to wrap around it. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over the salmon fillets. Slice one lemon into thin rounds. Arrange the lemon slices on top of each fillet. If using herbs, scatter them over the lemon slices. Enclose each fillet in its foil or parchment paper packet, crimping the edges tightly to seal in the moisture and flavors. This creates a steam-baking environment, resulting in incredibly moist and tender salmon.

Cooking Instructions

Baking is the preferred method for achieving perfectly cooked salmon. Place the prepared salmon packets on a baking sheet. 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 the internal temperature reaches 145F (63C). Overcooking will result in dry salmon, so it is crucial to monitor the cooking time closely. If baking without foil or parchment paper, lightly grease the baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking. Baking time might need to be adjusted slightly based on the oven and the thickness of the fillets.

Serving Suggestions

Easy Baked Salmon with Lemon Recipe offers endless serving possibilities.

• Classic Pairing: Serve alongside roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or sauted green beans.
• Grain Bowls: Flake the salmon and add it to quinoa or rice bowls with mixed vegetables and a light vinaigrette.
• Salads: Top a bed of mixed greens with flaked salmon, avocado, and a lemon-dill dressing.
• Pasta: Toss flaked salmon with pasta, lemon zest, and a creamy sauce.
• Garnishes: Garnish with fresh dill sprigs, extra lemon slices, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added visual appeal and flavor.

Tips and Common Mistakes

To ensure success with Easy Baked Salmon with Lemon Recipe, consider these tips:

• Dont Overcook: Overcooking is the most common mistake. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, or test with a fork for flakiness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemons and herbs significantly enhance the flavor.
• Season Generously: Salmon benefits from generous seasoning with salt and pepper.
• Proper Sealing: When using foil or parchment paper, ensure the packets are tightly sealed to trap moisture.
• Resting Time: Allow the salmon to rest for a few minutes after baking before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Mastering Easy Baked Salmon with Lemon Recipe is an excellent step towards becoming a more confident and versatile cook. Its bright flavors, health benefits, and adaptable nature make it a culinary staple that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Whether serving a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a dinner party, this recipe consistently delivers. Take this recipe into your home kitchen and begin discovering its versatility. To explore a wealth of other delicious and easy-to-follow cooking guides, please visit foodrecipestory.com and elevate your culinary skills today.