There’s something magical about the aroma of Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon wafting through the kitchen. Picture this: a perfectly cooked salmon fillet, glistening with a zesty lemon glaze, the garlic simmering away like it has a secret to share. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that can transport you to a sun-kissed Mediterranean villa with every bite.
Now, let me take you on a little trip down memory lane. I remember the first time I tried making this dish—my kitchen was a battlefield of flour and spices, and I may have dropped more lemon slices than I actually used. Yet, when that salmon came out of the oven, golden and fragrant, my family gathered around the table as if I had summoned a five-star restaurant right into our home. This delightful recipe is perfect for everything from elegant dinner parties to casual weeknight meals when you want to impress without breaking a sweat.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is incredibly easy to prepare, allowing even novice cooks to shine
- The bright flavors of lemon and garlic complement each other beautifully, creating an irresistible dish
- Visually stunning with its vibrant colors, it’ll be the star of any dinner table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with various sides or even be enjoyed on its own
Ingredients for Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Salmon Fillets: Fresh or thawed salmon fillets are ideal; look for bright pink flesh without any browning.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add depth; avoid pre-minced varieties for the best flavor.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish; bottled juice just won’t cut it.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor and health benefits.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness and color as a garnish at the end.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, grab your trusty baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray—trust me, you don’t want your masterpiece stuck!
Step 2: Prepare Your Salmon
Place your salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish. Make sure they’re snug but not squished together like sardines in a tin can.
Step 3: Mix Up That Zesty Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until it’s combined like old friends catching up over coffee.
Step 4: Pour It On
Drizzle your zesty marinade generously over the salmon fillets. Don’t be shy—let those flavors mingle!
Step 5: Bake Away
Pop the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork—like magic!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from oven and sprinkle fresh parsley over the top. Transfer to plates and drizzle with any leftover marinade for the perfect finishing touch.
And there you have it! Your Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is ready to wow your taste buds and impress anyone lucky enough to join you at the table. Enjoy!
You Must Know
- Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is not just a dish; it’s a culinary experience that brightens your dinner table
- Its zesty flavors and beautiful presentation make it a crowd-pleaser, whether for a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve that perfect Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon, start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While the oven warms up, prepare the salmon fillets with lemon slices and garlic. Bake for 12-15 minutes while you whip up a quick side salad.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon with herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor. You can swap out the salmon with trout or even chicken if you’re feeling adventurous. Add veggies like asparagus for a colorful one-pan meal.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to retain that succulent flavor without drying it out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon, make sure the salmon is at room temperature before cooking for even baking
- Always use fresh lemon juice for brighter flavor; bottled juice won’t cut it
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish, as this can lead to uneven cooking
Sometimes I think my friends keep coming back for my Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon just so they can get a whiff of those heavenly aromas wafting through the kitchen!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon?
To make Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon, you will need fresh salmon fillets, garlic, lemons, olive oil, fresh herbs like parsley or dill, salt, and pepper. Optional ingredients include a pinch of red pepper flakes for added heat or vegetables to roast alongside the salmon. These simple ingredients come together to create a flavorful and healthy dish that is perfect for any occasion.
How long does it take to bake salmon in the oven?
Baking salmon typically takes about 12 to 15 minutes at 375°F (190°C) for fillets that are about one inch thick. The key to perfectly baked lemon garlic salmon is to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). You can check this using a meat thermometer. Cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the fillets, so keep an eye on them for best results.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon for Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before baking. The best way to do this is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing. Once thawed, you can follow the same cooking instructions to achieve delicious results.
What side dishes pair well with Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon?
Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli, a fresh salad with citrus vinaigrette, or fluffy quinoa. For a heartier option, creamy mashed potatoes or rice pilaf also complement this dish nicely. These sides enhance the meal while maintaining its light and healthy essence.
Conclusion for Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon:
Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is an easy and delicious dish that showcases the bright flavors of lemon and garlic combined with tender salmon. This recipe requires minimal preparation but delivers impressive results that are perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. By following the simple steps outlined above and using fresh ingredients, you can enjoy a nutritious meal packed with flavor. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs and side dishes to make this recipe your own!
Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. Tender salmon fillets are marinated in a zesty blend of garlic and freshly squeezed lemon juice, then baked to perfection for a succulent finish. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for impressing your guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish elevates any meal with its bright, aromatic essence.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Arrange salmon fillets in the baking dish, ensuring space between them.
- In a bowl, whisk together minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the marinade evenly over the salmon fillets.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (170g)
- Calories: 367
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
