Baked salmon with lemon and herbs is a healthy and flavorful dish that's both easy to prepare and impressive. The lemon and herbs infuse the salmon with fresh, vibrant flavors while keeping it moist and tender. Here’s a simple recipe to make this delicious meal:
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (6-8 ounces each), skin on or off
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Prepare Baking Sheet:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
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Season Salmon:
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
- Rub each fillet with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
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Add Flavors:
- Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the salmon fillets.
- Arrange the lemon slices on top of the salmon fillets.
- Sprinkle the chopped rosemary and thyme over the fillets.
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Bake:
- Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The exact baking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
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Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve with additional lemon wedges on the side for extra brightness.
Tips:
- Check for Doneness: Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque color. Be careful not to overcook to keep it tender and moist.
- Flavor Variations: You can experiment with other herbs like dill, basil, or tarragon depending on your preference. Adding a splash of white wine or a few capers before baking can also add extra flavor.
- Side Dishes: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a simple green salad.
This baked salmon with lemon and herbs is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Enjoy this light and delicious meal!
