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Lemon Garlic Baked Salmon

Classic Lemon Garlic Baked Salmon recipe

Lemon Garlic Baked Salmon is a simple, flavorful dish that highlights the rich taste of salmon with fresh, vibrant ingredients. The combination of zesty lemon and savory garlic perfectly complements the natural flavors of the fish
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Mediterranean
Servings 4 Servings:
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • To prepare Lemon Garlic Baked Salmon, you’ll need the following equipment:
  • Baking Sheet - A flat baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased helps to prevent the salmon from sticking and ensures even cooking.
  • Oven - Preheat to 375°F (190°C) for baking the salmon.
  • Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil (optional) - To line the baking sheet, making cleanup easier and preventing sticking.
  • Brush - For applying olive oil or melted butter to the salmon.
  • Chef’s Knife - To slice the lemon and mince the garlic.
  • Garlic Press or Mince - For efficiently mincing garlic.
  • Meat Thermometer (optional) - To check that the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness.
  • Fork - To check for flakiness and determine when the salmon is cooked through.
  • Serving Platter - To present the baked salmon after cooking.
  • Cutting Board - For cutting the lemon and preparing the garlic.

Ingredients
  

  • Salmon Fillets: 4 fillets (6 oz each), skin removed if preferred
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for brushing the salmon
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
  • Lemon: 1 large, sliced into thin rounds (optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice)
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste
  • Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
  • Fresh Herbs (optional): Chopped parsley or dill for garnish

Notes

  1. Choosing Salmon:
    • Fresh vs. Frozen: Fresh salmon is preferred for its superior texture and flavor, but if using frozen, ensure it is fully thawed before baking. Check for any bones and remove them with tweezers if necessary.
  2. Garlic Preparation:
    • Minced vs. Pressed: Mincing garlic with a knife will provide a different texture than using a garlic press. For a milder garlic flavor, you can sauté the minced garlic briefly in olive oil before adding it to the salmon.
  3. Lemon Variations:
    • Sliced vs. Juiced: You can use lemon slices for a more decorative presentation and subtle flavor infusion or squeeze lemon juice over the salmon for a more pronounced lemony taste. Adjust based on your preference.
  4. Herb Options:
    • Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, dill, or thyme can be added either to the salmon before baking or as a garnish after cooking for added flavor and visual appeal. If using dried herbs, use about half the amount since they are more concentrated.
  5. Cooking Time:
    • Thickness Matters: Adjust baking time based on the thickness of your salmon fillets. Thicker fillets will require a longer cooking time. The general rule is 12-15 minutes per inch of thickness.
  6. Preventing Dryness:
    • Moisture Retention: To keep the salmon moist, avoid overcooking. Salmon should be cooked until it flakes easily with a fork but remains slightly translucent in the center. A meat thermometer can help ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  7. Foil Method:
    • Covering: If you prefer a more tender texture, you can cover the salmon loosely with aluminum foil during the first part of baking. This traps steam and helps retain moisture.
  8. Serving Suggestions:
    • Accompaniments: Lemon Garlic Baked Salmon pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including steamed vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. For added flavor, consider serving with a side of tzatziki or a light vinaigrette.
  9. Leftovers:
    • Storage: Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salmon can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, gently warm in the oven to avoid drying out.
  10. Adjusting for Spice:
    • Additional Flavor: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic mixture or a dash of hot sauce to the lemon juice.
These notes will help you customize the Lemon Garlic Baked Salmon recipe to your taste and ensure a perfectly cooked, flavorful dish every time.
Keyword Baked Salmon Recipe