Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is a dish that brings sunshine to your dinner table. Imagine a perfectly flaky fillet, kissed by zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that will have your neighbors knocking at your door for a bite.
This culinary delight is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re impressing guests at a dinner party or enjoying a casual weeknight meal with family. It’s a flavor-packed experience that you won’t soon forget!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The bright flavors of lemon and garlic create a mouthwatering experience.
- Its stunning presentation will make you feel like a gourmet chef.
- This dish pairs well with any side, from salads to grains, making it versatile for all types of meals.
Ingredients for Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Salmon Fillets: Fresh salmon fillets are best; look for vibrant color and a firm texture for optimal flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the dish its aromatic punch; avoid powdered garlic if possible.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the flavors; bottled juice just won’t cut it.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps carry the flavors of the seasonings.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley not only adds color but also freshness to the dish; feel free to substitute with dill if you prefer.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that your salmon cooks evenly while developing that delightful crust.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or lightly coat it with olive oil. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the dish, allowing them enough space so they don’t feel cramped.
Step 3: Mix Your Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. This mixture will be the magical elixir that transforms your salmon into something out-of-this-world delicious.
Step 4: Season the Salmon
Pour the marinade over the salmon fillets. Make sure each piece is generously coated; it’s like giving them a spa day before they hit the oven! Sprinkle some salt and pepper on top for additional flavor.
Step 5: Bake Away
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Your kitchen should start smelling like heaven by now!
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer the salmon to plates, drizzle any remaining marinade from the baking dish on top, and garnish with extra parsley if you’re feeling fancy. Voila! Dinner is served!
This Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon will not only satisfy your taste buds but also make you look like a total rockstar in the kitchen! Pair it with steamed veggies or fluffy rice for a complete meal that’s as healthy as it is delicious. Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary masterpiece that brightens up any table.
- With its zesty flavor and flaky texture, it makes dining feel like a special occasion, even if you’re just in your pajamas.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve salmon perfection, start by marinating the fish in lemon juice and garlic while preheating your oven. Once ready, place the salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out lemon for lime or add some fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra flavor kick. A sprinkle of paprika can also give your salmon a delightful twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, keeping that flaky texture intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture; frozen may lack freshness.
- Don’t overcook; salmon should flake easily but remain moist.
- Let it rest after baking to enhance juiciness and flavor.
Sometimes, I serve this Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon during family dinners, and my grandma insists it’s her favorite dish now! She even asks for seconds every time—now that’s a win!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon?
To prepare Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon, gather fresh salmon fillets, garlic, lemons, olive oil, fresh herbs like parsley or dill, salt, and pepper. These simple ingredients create a flavorful dish that highlights the natural taste of the salmon. Freshness is key; choose high-quality salmon for the best results. You can also customize the recipe by adding your favorite seasonings or vegetables for a complete meal.
How long should I bake the salmon?
The baking time for Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon typically ranges from 12 to 15 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The exact time will depend on the thickness of your salmon fillets. A general rule is to bake salmon for about 4 to 6 minutes per half-inch of thickness. To ensure it’s perfectly cooked, look for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and check that it flakes easily with a fork.
Can I make Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon ahead of time. Marinate the salmon in the lemon-garlic mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to develop even more. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake it as instructed. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.
What should I serve with Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon?
Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon pairs beautifully with various sides. Consider serving it with steamed asparagus, roasted vegetables, or a light salad for a healthy meal. Quinoa or rice makes an excellent base as well. You can also add a dollop of tzatziki or a fresh herb sauce to elevate your dish further and enhance its flavors.
Conclusion for Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon:
Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is a quick and healthy dish that delivers vibrant flavors in every bite. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful meal that impresses family and friends alike. Remember to adjust cooking times based on fillet thickness for perfect results every time. This versatile recipe works well with various sides, ensuring a balanced dining experience. Enjoy this delicious salmon dish any night of the week!
Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon
Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings a touch of sunshine to your dinner table. Fresh salmon fillets are marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and parsley, then baked to perfection for a flaky, tender texture. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to pair with various sides, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 (6 oz) fresh salmon fillets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray or olive oil and arrange the salmon fillets skin-side down.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and parsley to create the marinade.
- Pour the marinade over the salmon, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g)
- Calories: 367
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 112mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider swapping lemon for lime or adding fresh dill along with parsley. - Baking time may vary based on the thickness of your salmon fillets; check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
