This oven roasted salmon is a quick and tasty dish that everyone will love! It’s flaky, tender, and packed with flavor, all while being super easy to make.
Honestly, I can’t believe how simple it is! Just season the salmon and pop it in the oven. Perfect for busy evenings or when you want to impress guests without stress!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is best, but you can use frozen if that’s what you have. Just make sure to fully thaw it before cooking. Don’t worry—both will taste great!
Olive Oil: This adds richness, but feel free to swap it for melted butter or avocado oil if you prefer. Both are delicious alternatives.
Garlic: Fresh garlic elevates the flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch. Use about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove.
Herbs: Fresh herbs are wonderful, but dried is perfectly fine too. If using dried herbs, remember they’re often stronger, so use about a third of the amount in the recipe.
Lemon: Fresh lemon slices provide a nice punch, but if you’re out of lemons, try lime or even a splash of vinegar for that acidity!
How Can I Make Sure My Salmon is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking a perfect salmon fillet can be tricky, but here are some tips to ensure it’s done just right. First, always check for doneness by looking for an opaque center that flakes easily with a fork. Here are steps to follow:
- Timing: Bake for 12-15 minutes at 400°F. Thickness matters—thicker fillets may need more time.
- Cook to temperature: The ideal internal temperature for salmon is 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Let it rest: After baking, let the salmon rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle and keeps it moist.
Follow these steps, and you’ll end up with perfectly cooked, flavorful salmon every time!
Oven Roasted Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin removed if desired
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (half for roasting, half for serving)
- Optional vegetables for roasting: asparagus, cherry tomatoes, etc.
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 12-15 minutes to roast, totaling around 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick dinner or a lovely meal with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your oven is nice and hot when the salmon goes in. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper to make cleaning up a breeze later on.
2. Mix the Flavors:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried basil, parsley, oregano, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is going to soak into the salmon and make it super flavorful!
3. Prepare the Salmon:
Take the salmon fillets and pat them dry with a paper towel. Place each fillet skin-side down on your prepared baking sheet. This helps the skin crisp up if you choose to leave it on, or it keeps the fish moist if it’s removed.
4. Flavor it Up:
Brush the olive oil and herb mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet. Don’t be shy—this is where the delicious herb flavor comes in!
5. Add Lemon:
Take your lemon slices and arrange them around and under the salmon. The lemon will add a fresh, zesty flavor while it roasts.
6. Optional Veggies:
If you’d like, throw in some veggies like asparagus or cherry tomatoes around the salmon. Just drizzle a little olive oil on them and add seasoning. They’ll roast beautifully alongside the salmon!
7. Roast it:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast for 12-15 minutes. The salmon is done when it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time can depend on how thick your fillets are, so keep an eye on them!
8. Rest and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep it moist. Then, serve it up with the fresh lemon slices and any extra herbs you might have. Enjoy your delicious, healthy meal right away!
This method keeps the salmon moist and tender while developing rich flavors. With lemon adding brightness, this dish will impress anyone who tries it!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to fully thaw it first. The best way to thaw is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or, for a quicker method, sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, you can use melted butter, avocado oil, or even grapeseed oil. Each will impart a slightly different flavor to the dish while still ensuring that the salmon cooks beautifully.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently microwave it or warm in a skillet over low heat, being careful not to dry it out.
Can I Add Other Vegetables for Roasting?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like. Bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli roast well with salmon. Just make sure to cut them into similar size pieces to ensure even cooking!