Baked Salmon
Baked salmon is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with exquisite flavor. This recipe highlights the rich, buttery taste of salmon, complemented by a tangy glaze. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish is easy to prepare and showcases the natural goodness of fish. Serve it with fresh vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal that is both nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients
– 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (like dill or parsley) for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15-20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 salmon fillet): Calories: 350, Protein: 34g, Fat: 20g, Carbohydrates: 5g, Fiber: 0g. This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
3. In a bowl, mix olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the baking dish.
5. Brush the marinade generously over the salmon fillets.
6. Let the salmon marinate for about 10 minutes.
7. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Check for doneness; the salmon should flake easily with a fork.
9. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
10. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer, you can substitute honey with maple syrup for a different sweet flavor. Additionally, use lemon juice instead of soy sauce for a lighter taste. These alternatives can cater to different dietary preferences.
Serving and Pairings
Baked salmon pairs wonderfully with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. A light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover baked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the salmon can make it dry; aim for a tender texture.
- Not seasoning adequately can lead to bland flavors.
- Skipping the marinating step reduces the flavor depth.
- Using too high heat can burn the outside before the inside is cooked.
- Not letting it rest after cooking can cause juices to escape.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for enhanced flavor.
- Try different marinades for variety.
- Ensure even cooking by using fillets of similar thickness.
- Experiment with spices like paprika for added zing.
FAQs
How do I know when the salmon is cooked?
The salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has turned opaque in color. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is ideal.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating and baking to achieve even cooking.
What can I substitute for olive oil?
You can substitute olive oil with avocado oil or melted butter for a different flavor profile.
How long should I let salmon marinate?
A marination time of about 10-15 minutes is ideal for enhancing the flavor without overpowering the fish.
Can I cook salmon in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Cook the salmon in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes for a quick, healthy option.
Conclusion
Baked salmon is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients. This versatile dish can be tailored to suit various tastes, making it a perfect choice for any meal. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and sides to create your perfect baked salmon experience.
Baked Salmon
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets 6 oz each
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs like dill or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the baking dish.
- Brush the marinade generously over the salmon fillets.
- Let the salmon marinate for about 10 minutes.
- Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
- Check for doneness; the salmon should flake easily with a fork.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
