This oven-baked salmon is tender and flaky, perfect for a quick and delicious meal! With just a few spices, it turns into a flavorful dish that everyone will enjoy.
I love how easy this recipe is—just season the salmon, pop it in the oven, and wait for that amazing smell. You can serve it with veggies or rice for a complete dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon Fillets: Fresh salmon is best for flavor. If you can’t find it, use frozen fillets, just ensure they’re fully thawed before cooking. You can also try trout or tilapia as alternatives, but the cooking time may vary.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil brings a nice richness. If you prefer a different oil, avocado oil or melted butter works well, too. Just keep in mind that the flavor may change a bit!
Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill is my favorite for salmon because of its light, fresh flavor. If you don’t have dill, you can substitute with tarragon or even basil for a different twist!
Asparagus: This veggie pairs beautifully with salmon. If asparagus isn’t in season, green beans or broccoli could be used. Just adjust the cooking time slightly for the different vegetables.
How Do I Ensure My Salmon is Moist and Tender?
The key to perfectly cooked salmon lies in not overcooking it! Salmon is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Here are some tips:
- Keep an eye on the cooking time; check around the 12-minute mark.
- Use a meat thermometer—145°F (63°C) is the safe temperature for salmon.
- Let it rest for a minute or two before serving to help retain moisture.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve a tasty and tender salmon dish every time!
Best Oven Baked Salmon Recipe You’ll Love
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon and Asparagus:
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin removed or on, as preferred
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
For the Seasoning:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (plus extra slices for serving)
Time Needed:
This simple and delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 12-15 minutes to bake. Total time from start to finish is roughly 25-30 minutes, making it a quick and healthy dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, start off by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Seasoning Mix:
In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, chopped dill, parsley, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well to create a flavorful paste.
3. Prepare the Salmon:
Take your salmon fillets and place them on the lined baking sheet. Using a brush or your fingers, spread the herb and garlic mix evenly over both fillets to ensure they are fully coated in flavor.
4. Add the Asparagus:
Next, arrange the asparagus on one side of the baking sheet. Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle with a little salt and pepper. Toss the asparagus gently to coat it with the oil and seasonings.
5. Add Lemon Slices:
Lay the thin lemon slices on top of and around the salmon fillets. This will enhance the flavor and make your dish look lovely!
6. Bake the Dish:
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it! The salmon should be just cooked through and flake easily with a fork. The asparagus should be tender but still bright green.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take the baking sheet out of the oven and sprinkle some extra fresh parsley over the salmon and asparagus. Squeeze additional lemon juice over the dish for a fresh kick if desired.
8. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve your oven-baked salmon and asparagus immediately with your favorite side dishes, like rice or a light salad. Enjoy this fresh, flavorful, and healthy meal!
FAQs for Best Oven Baked Salmon Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to help avoid excess moisture during baking.
What Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If you’re not a fan of asparagus, you can easily swap it out for green beans, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as different veggies may require more or less time to cook until tender.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon and asparagus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the fish.
Can I Add Other Seasonings or Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme, basil, or cilantro, and add spices like paprika or cumin for a unique twist. You could also add cherry tomatoes or bell peppers on the baking sheet for extra flavor and nutrition!
