Have you ever wanted a dish that’s not only healthy but also bursting with flavor? This baked salmon recipe is your answer. It’s simple to prepare, yet it feels special enough for a dinner party or a weeknight meal.
With just a few ingredients, you can achieve a stunning dish that showcases the natural taste of the salmon while adding a refreshing twist with lemon and dill.
The beauty of this baked salmon lies in its versatility. You can serve it with a variety of sides, from steamed vegetables to fluffy rice, making it a great choice for any occasion. Plus, it’s perfect for anyone looking to incorporate more fish into their diet without sacrificing taste.
Delicious and Healthy Baked Salmon Recipe
This oven-baked salmon is tender, flaky, and infused with a hint of citrus and herbal notes from the lemon and dill. It’s a delightful balance of flavors that will please even the pickiest eaters, ensuring a satisfying meal every time.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 fillets
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Season the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in the baking dish. Drizzle olive oil, lemon juice, and sprinkle lemon zest, dill, salt, and pepper over the fillets.
- Bake the Salmon: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with lemon slices, and serve hot.
Overview of Baked Salmon
Baked salmon is a delightful choice for those who appreciate healthy and flavorful meals. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings a sense of elegance to the table.
The combination of tender, flaky fish with the bright notes of lemon and fresh dill creates a symphony of flavors that makes each bite memorable. When prepared correctly, baked salmon stands out as a vibrant centerpiece, enhanced by its appealing presentation and the nutritious ingredients that accompany it.
Preparation and Cooking Time
One of the most appealing aspects of baked salmon is its simplicity in preparation. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a mere 15 minutes of cooking, you can have a stunning meal ready to serve in 25 minutes. This makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings, ensuring you can provide a healthy and impressive dish with minimal effort.
Flavorful Ingredients
The main stars of this dish are, of course, the salmon fillets. Choose fresh, high-quality salmon to ensure a delicious outcome.
Complementing the salmon, the olive oil adds richness, while the lemon juice and zest bring a refreshing zing, cutting through the natural oiliness of the fish. Fresh dill introduces an herbal note that perfectly balances the citrus, making each bite enjoyable and unique.
Serving Suggestions
Baked salmon pairs wonderfully with various sides, allowing for versatility in your meal planning. Vibrant green asparagus, lightly seasoned and roasted alongside the salmon, enhances the dish’s visual appeal while adding nutritional value.
You might also consider serving it with a light salad or fluffy rice to create a well-rounded plate that satisfies both the eye and the palate.
Presentation Tips
Presentation is key when showcasing baked salmon. Arranging the salmon fillets neatly on a platter, garnished with fresh lemon slices and sprigs of dill, creates a dish that is as beautiful as it is delicious.
The bright colors contrast beautifully against the golden-brown salmon, making it an inviting addition to any dining table.
Health Benefits of Salmon
Salmon is renowned for its health benefits, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to boost their diet. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, this fish supports heart health and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Additionally, salmon is a great source of protein, making it an excellent option for those wanting to maintain a balanced and nutritious meal plan.