If you are searching for a trustworthy and delicious way to enjoy seafood at home, this Easy Baked Salmon Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines simplicity and flavor in the most beautiful way, highlighting the tender, flaky texture of salmon and marrying it with the bright freshness of lemon and herbs. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a casual gathering, this recipe delivers juicy, melt-in-your-mouth salmon with minimal fuss and maximum satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but crucial to achieving the perfect balance of richness, seasoning, and brightness in your salmon. Each one plays an important role in ensuring you get that signature moist and flavorful bite.
- 1-2 pounds salmon: Choose a fresh, firm fillet or individual pieces for ease and optimal texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds subtle richness and helps keep the salmon moist while baking.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Melts beautifully over the salmon, enhancing flavor and tenderness.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the fish.
- 2 tablespoons parsley (chopped): Offers a fresh, herbal note and a vibrant pop of green color.
- Fresh lemon juice: Adds bright acidity that cuts through the richness perfectly, balancing the dish.
How to Make Easy Baked Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Salmon
Start by setting your oven to 400F and moving the rack to the top third to ensure a beautifully even bake. For best results, allow the salmon to sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before baking. This simple step helps it cook more evenly and prevents a cold center, making your Easy Baked Salmon Recipe flawless every time.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Oil
In a small bowl, combine your olive oil and butter, then melt the mixture quickly in the microwave. This blend will not only add flavor but also keep the fish moist as it bakes, ensuring each bite is luscious and tender.
Step 3: Season and Arrange the Salmon
Place the salmon skin-side down on a foil-lined baking sheet or a baking dish—this placement helps retain moisture and keeps skin crispy for those who enjoy it. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the top, pour the butter and oil mixture evenly over the fish, and finish with a generous sprinkling of chopped parsley. This step infuses the salmon with flavor and makes for a lovely visual presentation.
Step 4: Bake the Salmon to Perfection
Now the magic happens. If you have a large single piece measuring about 1 inch thick, bake uncovered for 18 to 20 minutes. Check for doneness by gently flaking with a fork; if it flakes easily, it’s ready. Thinner pieces usually take around 15 minutes. Individual fillets about 1 inch thick bake in 12 to 15 minutes. Don’t worry if it seems slightly underdone in the thickest part—you can always pop it back in for a few extra minutes. This flexibility allows you to achieve the perfect texture every time.
Step 5: Brighten with Fresh Lemon Juice
After removing the salmon from the oven, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for that final burst of brightness and zing. If you prefer, slide the salmon off the skin when serving using a spatula or knife—either way, you’re in for a delectable experience.
How to Serve Easy Baked Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes are the best when enjoying Easy Baked Salmon Recipe. Fresh parsley or dill adds a lovely herbal touch, while thin lemon slices or wedges alongside provide guests with extra zest if desired. You can also drizzle a touch of good quality olive oil or a light garlic aioli for an indulgent flair without overpowering the delicate salmon.
Side Dishes
This salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Think fluffy couscous, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. For heartier meals, creamy mashed potatoes or wild rice pilaf stay true to the warm, comforting vibe of this dish. The possibilities are endless, but keeping sides simple lets your salmon shine.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress friends with your presentation? Serve the salmon on a bed of sautéed spinach or alongside colorful roasted vegetables for a vibrant plate. Alternatively, flake the salmon and use it to top avocado toast or toss with a fresh pasta salad for a chic brunch option. Easy Baked Salmon Recipe is incredibly versatile, letting you get creative while still enjoying effortless elegance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, tightly wrap your salmon in plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container before refrigerating. Properly stored, it will remain delightful for up to three days without sacrificing flavor or moisture.
Freezing
It’s best to freeze salmon raw rather than cooked for ideal texture upon thawing, but if needed, you can freeze cooked salmon for up to two months. Make sure to wrap it well in foil and place in a freezer bag to protect from freezer burn.
Reheating
To gently reheat baked salmon, place it in a low oven (around 275F) covered with foil until warmed through. You can also microwave on low power in short bursts, but watch closely to avoid drying it out. Reheating with a splash of lemon juice or a dab of butter helps maintain moisture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this Easy Baked Salmon Recipe?
Yes, frozen salmon works well if fully thawed before cooking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and pat it dry to remove excess moisture for best results.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque throughout. If it’s still translucent or firm in the center, it needs a bit more time in the oven.
Can I use other herbs instead of parsley?
Absolutely! Dill, thyme, or chives are all fantastic alternatives that complement salmon beautifully.
Is it necessary to remove the skin before baking?
No, baking skin-side down helps protect the fish from drying out, and the skin crisps up nicely. You can remove it after cooking if you prefer not to eat it.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Yes, just make sure you use an appropriately sized baking dish or sheet to ensure even cooking. Adjust baking time slightly if needed based on the thickness of the salmon pieces.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Baked Salmon Recipe is truly one of those dishes you’ll keep coming back to because it’s fast, delicious, and endlessly flexible. It’s perfect for busy weeknights but elegant enough to share with guests, making it a total kitchen win. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy salmon!
Print
Easy Baked Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Easy Baked Salmon recipe is a simple and flavorful way to prepare tender, flaky salmon fillets or a large salmon piece. Seasoned with olive oil, butter, parsley, and fresh lemon juice, it bakes to perfection in just 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick, healthy weeknight dinner, this salmon dish combines minimal ingredients with maximum taste.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 1–2 pounds salmon (large fillet or individual pieces)
Seasonings & Garnish
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- Fresh lemon juice, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Salmon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and position the oven rack in the top third of your oven. Allow the salmon to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking to ensure even baking.
- Melt Butter and Olive Oil: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil and butter. Melt the mixture using a microwave until fully liquefied.
- Season the Salmon: Place the salmon skin-side down on a baking dish or a foil-lined baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper. Drizzle the melted butter and olive oil mixture evenly over the salmon, then sprinkle the chopped parsley on top.
- Bake the Salmon: For a large, single fillet approximately 1 inch thick, bake uncovered for 18-20 minutes. Check if the salmon flakes easily with a fork; if not, return it to the oven for a few more minutes. For thinner pieces, start checking at 15 minutes. If using individual fillets about 1 inch thick, bake for 12-15 minutes until the salmon flakes easily.
- Serve with Lemon Juice: Once done, remove the salmon from the oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. To enjoy, you can slide the salmon off the skin using a metal spatula or knife if you prefer not to eat the skin. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Letting the salmon come to room temperature helps it cook more evenly.
- Using a foil-lined baking sheet makes cleanup easier.
- Check the salmon often near the end of baking to avoid overcooking.
- You can adjust the parsley and lemon juice quantities based on taste preferences.
- Salmon skin is edible and contains nutrients, but can be removed at serving if preferred.
