Salmon is one of those dishes that’s easy to prepare yet incredibly flavorful. When baked in the oven, it retains its moist, tender texture while being infused with delicious seasonings. This recipe is designed to produce perfectly baked salmon every time, with a crispy exterior and a flaky interior. Let’s dive into the details!
1. Easy Oven Baked Salmon Fillets
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper (or a pinch if using finely ground black pepper)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning blend (or herbs de Provence, or a mix of ¼ teaspoon each dried thyme, parsley, oregano, and basil)
- 1 medium lemon, sliced into wedges
Instructions
Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent the salmon from sticking.
Season the Salmon Fillets
Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if the skin is on. Drizzle the fillets with olive oil, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Sprinkle salt and cracked black pepper over the fillets, then sprinkle the minced garlic and Italian herb seasoning blend on top. Be generous with the seasoning—this adds loads of flavor.
Add Lemon Wedges
Place a few lemon slices around the salmon fillets. The lemon not only enhances the flavor of the salmon but also helps keep it moist during the baking process.
Bake the Salmon
Bake the salmon fillets in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The salmon should be opaque and easily flake with a fork when done. For a slightly crispy top, you can broil the fillets for the last 2 minutes of baking.
Serve and Enjoy
Once the salmon is cooked to your liking, remove it from the oven and serve immediately. You can squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the top for added brightness.
2. Tips for Perfect Oven Baked Salmon
Don’t Overcook the Salmon
The key to perfectly baked salmon is not overcooking it. The salmon should be opaque and easily flake with a fork, but still moist inside. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to avoid drying it out.
Use High-Quality Fish
Fresh, high-quality salmon makes all the difference. Look for fillets with vibrant color and avoid those that look dull or have a strong fishy odor. Wild-caught salmon tends to have a richer flavor, but farmed salmon can also be delicious.
Room Temperature Before Baking
Let the salmon sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before baking. This helps it cook more evenly. If you put cold salmon straight into the oven, it might not cook as uniformly.
Don’t Skip the Lemon
The lemon slices not only add flavor, but they also help keep the salmon moist while baking. You can even squeeze a little lemon juice on the fillets right before serving for an extra burst of freshness.
Experiment with Seasonings
Feel free to swap the Italian herb blend for your favorite spices. For example, Cajun seasoning can give the salmon a bit of a spicy kick, while a mix of garlic, paprika, and thyme adds a smoky flavor.
3. What to Eat with Oven Baked Salmon
Oven-baked salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, from fresh salads to hearty grains. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots complement the rich flavor of salmon. Toss them in olive oil, salt, pepper, and a few herbs, then roast them in the oven alongside the salmon for an easy, one-pan meal.
Crispy Potatoes
Crispy roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes work beautifully with salmon. The creamy texture of mashed potatoes balances the richness of the fish, while crispy potatoes add a satisfying crunch.
Quinoa or Rice
Quinoa or brown rice are great side dishes that add texture and nutrition. The nuttiness of quinoa or the heartiness of brown rice pairs well with the savory flavors of salmon.
Fresh Salad
A light, fresh salad with arugula, spinach, and citrus dressing complements the richness of the salmon. You could add avocado, cucumber, or cherry tomatoes for added freshness.
Steamed or Sautéed Greens
Lightly sautéed spinach or kale is a great choice to serve with salmon. A touch of garlic and olive oil is all you need to make the greens flavorful and a perfect complement to the fish.
4. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storing Leftovers
Allow the salmon fillets to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
Reheating Leftovers
To reheat, gently warm the salmon in the oven at 275°F (135°C) for about 10 minutes or until it’s heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet on low heat with a bit of olive oil or butter. Avoid using high heat, as this can dry out the salmon.
Oven-baked salmon is a simple yet delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and lemon creates a flavorful and moist fish that’s sure to impress. Pair it with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
