Easy Baked Salmon with Herbs

In our home, weeknights are often a whirlwind. Between school runs, after-school activities, and the general chaos of family life, dinner needs to be quick, healthy, and, most importantly, something everyone will actually eat without complaint. That’s where this Easy Baked Salmon with Herbs recipe comes in as a true savior. I stumbled upon it when searching for a simple yet flavorful way to incorporate more fish into our diets. Honestly, I was skeptical at first – could something so easy truly be delicious? The answer, unequivocally, is yes! From the first bite, my family was hooked. The salmon is incredibly moist and flaky, infused with the bright, fresh flavors of herbs and a hint of lemon. Even my picky eaters, who usually turn their noses up at anything remotely “fishy,” devour this dish. It’s become a regular feature on our weekly menu, not just for its ease and taste, but also because it feels like a genuinely healthy and wholesome meal. If you’re looking for a stress-free, flavorful, and nutritious dinner that will impress even the most discerning palates, look no further. This baked salmon recipe is about to become your new go-to.

Ingredients

This recipe champions simplicity and fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful dish:

• Salmon Fillets: 4 (about 6-8 ounces each), skin on or off, depending on your preference. Fresh, wild-caught salmon is ideal for the best flavor and nutritional value, but frozen fillets, thawed completely, work perfectly well too.
• Fresh Herbs: 2 tablespoons, chopped. A mix of your favorites works wonderfully. Consider parsley, dill, thyme, rosemary, or chives. Fresh herbs are key to the bright, aromatic flavor of this dish.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor and health benefits. It helps keep the salmon moist and aids in browning.
• Lemon: 1, sliced into thin rounds, plus extra wedges for serving. Lemon brightens the flavor of the salmon and complements the herbs beautifully. The slices also add moisture during baking.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic adds a subtle pungent flavor that enhances the overall taste profile.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste. Sea salt or kosher salt is preferred for seasoning.
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground, or to taste. Freshly ground black pepper provides a bolder flavor than pre-ground.

Instructions

This recipe is incredibly straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This makes cleanup a breeze and prevents the salmon from sticking. Parchment paper is generally preferred for its non-stick properties and eco-friendliness. Foil can also be used, but lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Salmon Fillets: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step as it helps the salmon skin crisp up (if using skin-on fillets) and allows the seasonings to adhere better. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them for even cooking.
3. Season the Salmon: Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the salmon fillets. Ensure each fillet is lightly coated. Then, sprinkle the minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, salt, and black pepper over the salmon. Distribute the seasonings evenly for maximum flavor in every bite. Gently rub the seasonings into the salmon fillets to ensure they adhere well.
4. Add Lemon Slices: Arrange the lemon slices over and around the salmon fillets. Place a few lemon slices directly on top of each fillet and scatter the rest around the baking sheet. The lemon will infuse the salmon with its bright citrusy flavor as it bakes and also help keep it moist.
5. Bake the Salmon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The exact baking time will depend on the thickness of your salmon fillets. Check for doneness around the 12-minute mark. The salmon is cooked when it is opaque and flakes easily when gently pressed with a fork. Avoid overbaking, as this can make the salmon dry. For thicker fillets, you might need to bake for a couple of minutes longer.
6. Check for Doneness: To check if the salmon is cooked through, gently flake it with a fork at the thickest part. If it flakes easily and is opaque throughout, it’s ready. If it’s still translucent or resists flaking, return it to the oven for another minute or two and check again.
7. Serve Immediately: Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the salmon rest for a minute or two before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful fillet. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the salmon just before eating.

Nutrition Facts

This Easy Baked Salmon with Herbs is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for any meal. Please note that these are approximate values and can vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

• Serving Size: 1 Salmon Fillet (approximately 6-8 ounces cooked)
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-450 calories. Salmon is naturally calorie-dense due to its healthy fat content, but these are primarily beneficial fats.
• Protein: 40-50 grams. Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle building, repair, and overall body function. Protein also contributes to satiety, helping you feel full and satisfied after your meal.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA). Salmon is renowned for its high content of omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation in the body. Regular consumption of omega-3s is linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and improved cognitive function.
• Vitamin D: Excellent source of Vitamin D. Salmon is one of the few food sources naturally rich in Vitamin D, which is essential for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Many people are deficient in Vitamin D, making salmon a valuable dietary addition.
• Vitamin B12: High in Vitamin B12. Salmon is also a good source of Vitamin B12, important for nerve function, red blood cell formation, and DNA synthesis. Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to fatigue and neurological issues.

Preparation Time

This recipe is all about speed and efficiency. From start to finish, you can have a healthy and flavorful meal on the table in under 30 minutes.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes. This includes washing and patting dry the salmon, chopping herbs, mincing garlic, and slicing lemon. The minimal prep work makes this recipe ideal for busy weeknights.
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes. Baking time is quick, ensuring the salmon is cooked to perfection without drying out. The oven does most of the work, allowing you to focus on other tasks or simply relax while dinner cooks.
• Total Time: Approximately 22-25 minutes. In less than half an hour, you can have a nutritious and delicious baked salmon meal ready to enjoy. This makes it a fantastic option for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner.

How to Serve Easy Baked Salmon with Herbs

Baked salmon is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide variety of side dishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to create a complete and satisfying meal:

• Classic Lemon and Asparagus: Serve the baked salmon with roasted or steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice. The bright, fresh flavors of lemon and asparagus complement the salmon beautifully, creating a light and healthy pairing.
• Quinoa or Rice Pilaf: Pair the salmon with a fluffy quinoa or rice pilaf. Quinoa or brown rice adds a whole grain element, providing fiber and complex carbohydrates. You can enhance the pilaf with herbs, vegetables, or nuts for added flavor and texture.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, or bell peppers. Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and provides a hearty and nutritious side dish. Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting for maximum flavor.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes or Sweet Potato Mash: For a more comforting meal, serve with creamy mashed potatoes or a sweet potato mash. The richness of mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes provides a lovely contrast to the lightness of the salmon. You can add herbs or garlic to the mash for extra flavor.
• Fresh Salad: A vibrant green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing is a perfect healthy accompaniment. The crispness of the salad and the tangy dressing balance the richness of the salmon. Consider adding mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon-herb vinaigrette.
• Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices from the salmon and lemon. Warm, crusty bread is always a welcome addition to any meal, especially when paired with flavorful sauces or drippings.
• Pasta with Pesto: For a slightly more indulgent meal, serve the salmon over pasta tossed with pesto. The herbaceous pesto complements the herbs in the salmon and adds a rich, flavorful element to the dish. Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
• Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Combine quinoa with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and a lemon-herb dressing for a refreshing Mediterranean-inspired salad that pairs wonderfully with baked salmon. This salad is packed with flavor and nutrients and provides a light and healthy counterpoint to the salmon.

Additional Tips for Perfect Baked Salmon

To ensure your Easy Baked Salmon with Herbs is consistently perfect, here are some helpful tips and tricks:

1. Choose High-Quality Salmon: The quality of your salmon significantly impacts the flavor and texture of the dish. Opt for fresh, wild-caught salmon whenever possible for the best taste and nutritional benefits. If using frozen salmon, ensure it is fully thawed before cooking. Look for fillets that are vibrant in color and have a fresh, clean smell.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give the salmon fillets enough space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of baking, resulting in salmon that is less crispy and may not cook evenly. If necessary, use two baking sheets or bake in batches.
3. Pat the Salmon Dry: As mentioned earlier, patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels before seasoning is crucial. This removes excess moisture, allowing the seasonings to adhere better and promoting browning, especially if you’re using skin-on fillets.
4. Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasonings. Salmon can handle bold flavors, so ensure you season generously with salt, pepper, herbs, and garlic. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before baking. Proper seasoning is key to a flavorful and delicious final dish.
5. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs are essential for the bright and aromatic flavor of this recipe. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but fresh herbs provide a much more vibrant and nuanced flavor. If using dried herbs, use about half the amount specified for fresh herbs, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
6. Don’t Overbake: Overbaking is the most common mistake when cooking salmon, leading to dry and tough fillets. Salmon is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. Start checking for doneness around 12 minutes and adjust baking time based on the thickness of your fillets.
7. Let it Rest: Allow the baked salmon to rest for a minute or two after removing it from the oven before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the fillet, resulting in a more moist and flavorful final product. Tenting the salmon loosely with foil during resting can help keep it warm.
8. Experiment with Herbs and Flavors: While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to experiment with different herb combinations and flavors. Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, using different citrus fruits like orange or grapefruit instead of lemon, or incorporating other aromatics like shallots or ginger. Get creative and customize the recipe to your taste preferences.

FAQ Section: Your Questions Answered About Easy Baked Salmon

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Easy Baked Salmon with Herbs, to help you achieve perfect results every time:

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
A: Yes, absolutely! Frozen salmon is a convenient and often more budget-friendly option. Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before baking. The best way to thaw salmon is overnight in the refrigerator. If you’re short on time, you can thaw it in a sealed bag in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until thawed. Ensure the salmon is fully thawed and patted dry before proceeding with the recipe.

Q2: What if I don’t have fresh herbs? Can I use dried herbs instead?
A: Yes, you can substitute dried herbs if you don’t have fresh ones. However, keep in mind that dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor, so you’ll need to use less. As a general rule, use about one-third to one-half the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh herbs. For example, if the recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs, use about 1-2 teaspoons of dried herbs.

Q3: How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?
A: The best way to check for doneness is to gently flake the salmon with a fork at the thickest part. If it flakes easily and is opaque throughout (no longer translucent), it’s cooked through. The internal temperature of cooked salmon should reach 145°F (63°C). However, for home cooking, flaking and opacity are reliable indicators. Avoid overcooking, as it will make the salmon dry.

Q4: Can I bake salmon with the skin on or skin off?
A: You can bake salmon with either the skin on or skin off, depending on your preference. Skin-on salmon tends to be more forgiving and stays moister during baking. The skin also becomes crispy and flavorful when baked. If you prefer skinless salmon, that works perfectly well too. If using skin-on fillets, you can choose to eat the skin or remove it after baking.

Q5: Can I prepare the salmon ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the salmon fillets by seasoning them and placing them on the baking sheet up to a few hours ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. However, it’s best to bake the salmon just before serving for the best texture and flavor. Baking it fresh ensures it’s moist and perfectly cooked.

Q6: How do I store leftover baked salmon?
A: Store leftover baked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow the salmon to cool completely before refrigerating. Reheat it gently to prevent drying it out.

Q7: What’s the best way to reheat baked salmon?
A: The best way to reheat baked salmon is gently to prevent it from drying out. You can reheat it in the oven at a low temperature (around 250°F or 120°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in a microwave at 30-second intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking. Adding a little moisture, like a drizzle of olive oil or lemon juice, can help keep it moist during reheating.

Q8: Can I add other vegetables to bake with the salmon on the same sheet pan?
A: Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to bake alongside the salmon on the same sheet pan. Vegetables that roast well in a similar time frame as salmon, such as asparagus, broccoli florets, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and green beans, are excellent choices. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper and spread them around the salmon on the baking sheet. Keep in mind that denser vegetables like potatoes or carrots may require a longer cooking time, so you might need to par-cook them slightly before adding them to the sheet pan with the salmon.

Print