Description
This Easy Baked Salmon recipe delivers perfectly cooked, flaky salmon fillets every time. Simply season, brush with a flavorful lemon-herb mixture, and bake. It’s a quick, healthy, and delicious meal perfect for any weeknight.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried tarragon
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease a baking sheet with cooking spray.
- Season the Salmon: Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper.
- Lemon-Herb Mixture: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, and dried tarragon. Brush this mixture generously over the salmon fillets, top and bottom.
- Bake: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flaky.
- Broil (Optional): For a bit of golden color on top, broil for 1-2 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Garnish with lemon slices (if desired) and serve immediately.
Notes
- Skin On or Off: Leaving the skin on helps prevent sticking and overcooking.
- Use a Thermometer: The USDA recommends cooking fish to an internal temperature of 145°F. Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy.
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooked salmon is dry. Watch closely towards the end of the cooking time.
- Remove Pin Bones: Run your hand over the fillets to locate and gently remove any pin bones with tweezers.
- Leftovers: Use leftover salmon for salmon salad sandwiches.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect. Using a thermometer is the most reliable way to ensure doneness. Moist and flaky is the goal!
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store cooked salmon in a shallow airtight container or tightly wrapped in foil or plastic wrap for 2-3 days.
- Freeze Leftovers: For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100g