Oven Baked Salmon

This Oven Baked Salmon recipe is a delightful choice for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings. The combination of garlic butter and a brown sugar spice mix creates a flavorful crust that enhances the tender salmon fillet. Quick to prepare and easy to cook, this dish guarantees satisfaction with its rich taste and healthy profile.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can have this delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful Taste: The garlic butter and brown sugar spice mix provide a perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors.
• Versatile Serving Options: This baked salmon pairs wonderfully with various sides, making it suitable for any meal.
• Healthy Eating: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish fits perfectly into any clean eating plan.
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful presentation of the salmon fillet will impress your guests at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having everything ready will make preparing your Oven Baked Salmon even easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil
• Mixing bowl
• Brush for applying butter
• Knife (for mincing garlic)

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for cooking the salmon evenly.
• Aluminum foil: Helps to retain moisture during baking, keeping the salmon juicy.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Brush for applying butter: Ensures an even coating of garlic butter for optimal flavor.

Ingredients

This Oven Baked Salmon is brushed with garlic butter, then sprinkled with a delicious brown sugar spice mix for the perfectly baked, flavorful salmon fillet.

For the Salmon

• 1 (2-pound) whole salmon fillet (skin-on preferred)

For the Garlic Butter Mix

• 3 tablespoons melted butter (OR olive oil)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

For Seasoning

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ground black pepper (to taste)

How to Make Oven Baked Salmon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Heat your oven to 375°F. This temperature ensures that the salmon cooks evenly while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

• Place a large piece of foil on a rimmed baking sheet.
• Put the salmon fillet on top with skin side down and pink side up.
• Crimp the edges of the foil around the salmon to create a little boat that will hold in moisture.

Step 3: Season the Salmon

• In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter and minced garlic.
• Brush half of this mixture over the salmon fillet.
• In another small bowl, mix together brown sugar, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
• Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the salmon.
• Drizzle with remaining garlic butter.

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

Bake your seasoned salmon in the preheated oven for 15-22 minutes. The timing will depend on your preferred doneness level. For best results:
– Consider basting with juices halfway through baking if desired.
– Once done, remove from oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy this simple yet flavorful Oven Baked Salmon as part of your next meal!

How to Serve Oven Baked Salmon

Oven Baked Salmon is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and croutons topped with a tangy Caesar dressing make a perfect complement.
• Mediterranean Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese adds freshness and flavor to your salmon.

Grains

• Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty grain is packed with protein and works well with the flavors of baked salmon.
• Wild Rice: The earthy taste of wild rice enhances the meal while providing a hearty base.

Veggies

• Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears, lightly seasoned and roasted, offer a crunchy contrast.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds color and health benefits.

Sauces & Toppings

• Lemon Butter Sauce: A drizzle of lemon butter sauce brightens up the dish and adds richness.
• Chimichurri Sauce: This herb-based sauce provides a zesty kick that complements the flavors of the salmon.

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How to Perfect Oven Baked Salmon

To ensure your Oven Baked Salmon comes out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh salmon fillets for better flavor and texture.
• Preheat Your Oven: Make sure your oven is preheated to 375°F before baking for even cooking.
• Monitor Internal Temperature: Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for perfectly cooked salmon.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Allow space between fillets on the baking sheet to promote even cooking.
• Baste for Moisture: Basting with juices halfway through helps keep the salmon moist and flavorful.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the salmon to rest for five minutes after baking helps retain its juices.

Best Side Dishes for Oven Baked Salmon

Pairing your Oven Baked Salmon with complementary side dishes enhances its deliciousness. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside the fish.
2. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until crispy, these sprouts add a nice crunch and earthy flavor.
3. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb option that pairs nicely with salmon.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn can be grilled or boiled, making it a classic summer side dish.
5. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs creates a light and aromatic accompaniment.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and balances the richness of the salmon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Oven Baked Salmon, a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not preheating the oven: Always preheat your oven. Failing to do so can result in uneven cooking and dry salmon.
• Overcooking the salmon: Keep an eye on the cooking time. Overcooked salmon can become tough and lose its flavor.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t skip any seasonings. The flavor of your salmon will benefit greatly from a good spice mix.
• Using low-quality fish: Invest in good quality salmon. Fresh, high-quality fillets will enhance the taste and texture of your dish.
• Ignoring resting time: Allowing the salmon to rest after baking is essential. This lets the juices redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful fillet.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salmon in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Oven Baked Salmon

• Freeze cooked salmon in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Oven Baked Salmon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place salmon on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place salmon on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat, add a splash of water or broth, and cover until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Oven Baked Salmon that many people have.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before following the recipe instructions.

What should I serve with Oven Baked Salmon?

Oven Baked Salmon pairs well with vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

How do I know when my salmon is done?

The internal temperature should reach 145°F. You can also check if it flakes easily with a fork.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Oven Baked Salmon is great for meal prep. You can store it in the fridge or freezer for quick meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Oven Baked Salmon recipe is not only simple but also versatile and delicious. With its garlic butter and brown sugar spice blend, it’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Feel free to customize with your favorite seasonings or sides!