If you are looking for a dish that feels both fancy and effortlessly simple, this Easy Baked Salmon Recipe is exactly what you need. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll end up with tender, flaky salmon bursting with buttery, lemony goodness and fresh parsley brightness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this recipe turns a healthy protein into a delightful centerpiece that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may be few, but each one plays a crucial role in creating a perfectly balanced and flavorful salmon dish. From the richness of butter to the fresh zing of lemon juice, everything combines to highlight the natural taste of the fish.
- Salmon (1-2 pounds): Choose a fresh, high-quality fillet for the best taste and texture.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps keep the salmon moist as it bakes.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Brings luxurious creaminess and enhances browning on top of the salmon.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and accentuating the salmon’s natural flavors.
- Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Brings a fresh, herbaceous note and vibrant color to the dish.
- Fresh lemon juice (to taste): Adds a bright, tangy finish that balances the richness beautifully.
How to Make Easy Baked Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and the Salmon
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and placing the rack in the top third section. This placement helps the salmon cook evenly and develop a lovely surface color. If you have the time, let the salmon rest on your counter for 15 to 20 minutes; bringing it closer to room temperature ensures even cooking and a tender texture.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Oil Together
Combine the olive oil and butter in a small bowl and melt them in the microwave until just liquid. This mixture is the secret to keeping your salmon juicy while adding luscious richness that bakes into the fish.
Step 3: Season and Prepare the Salmon
Place the salmon skin-side down in a baking dish or on a foil-lined baking sheet—it makes cleanup a breeze. Season generously with salt and pepper, then drizzle the melted butter and olive oil mixture over the top. Sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley across the fillet to infuse herbaceous flavor and add a gorgeous pop of green.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
For a large single fillet approximately one inch thick, bake uncovered for 18 to 20 minutes. Check doneness by seeing if the salmon flakes easily with a fork—it should yield gently. Thinner pieces or individual fillets will need less time, around 12 to 15 minutes. Don’t worry if it looks a little raw near the thickest part; you can always pop it back in the oven for a few extra minutes until perfectly cooked.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Lemon Juice
The final touch is a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice, which adds a bright, citrusy note that perfectly complements the buttery, savory flavors. Serve immediately and enjoy the beautifully flaky texture and vibrant flavors of your Easy Baked Salmon Recipe.
How to Serve Easy Baked Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley additional to that cooked in, or even some finely chopped dill, enhances the dish’s freshness and presentation. Thin lemon slices or wedges on the side not only brighten the plate but invite your guests to add more citrus zing as they please.
Side Dishes
This baked salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Think fluffy rice pilaf, roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp mixed green salad. Each side brings complementary textures and flavors, rounding out a delicious, balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your salmon atop a bed of quinoa mixed with fresh herbs and lemon zest for an eye-catching and nourishing bowl. Alternatively, flake the salmon and use it in warm wraps or atop toasted bread with avocado for a casual, impressive brunch option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days and still taste delicious when eaten cold or reheated gently.
Freezing
If you want to keep cooked salmon longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Properly stored, it can last up to 2 months without losing much flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, place the salmon in a single layer on a baking sheet and warm at 275 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 to 15 minutes. This gentle heat helps prevent drying, keeping the fish moist and flaky.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this Easy Baked Salmon Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the salmon completely before baking, as this ensures even cooking and best texture.
Is it necessary to remove the skin before cooking?
Not at all. Baking with the skin on helps protect the delicate flesh, keeping it moist. You can easily slide it off when serving if you prefer not to eat it.
Can I customize the seasonings in this recipe?
Definitely! While salt, pepper, parsley, and lemon juice highlight the salmon beautifully, adding garlic powder, paprika, or dill can create delightful variations tailored to your taste.
What is the best way to tell when the salmon is done?
The easiest method is to test if it flakes easily with a fork. The flesh should be opaque and separate gently without resistance.
Can I double this Easy Baked Salmon Recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes! Just arrange the salmon fillets in a single layer on larger baking sheets or dishes and cook in batches if needed. Cooking times remain similar, but keep an eye on the fish to avoid overcooking.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the satisfaction of pulling a beautifully cooked salmon out of the oven with minimal fuss. This Easy Baked Salmon Recipe takes just minutes to prepare yet feels special enough for any occasion. Its tender, buttery texture paired with fresh lemon and parsley can easily become your go-to for a wholesome, delicious dinner that everyone will love. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy salmon!
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Easy Baked Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Baked Salmon recipe features tender, flaky salmon fillets baked to perfection with a simple butter, olive oil, and parsley seasoning. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a healthy and delicious meal perfect for any night of the week. The salmon is baked skin-side down and finished with a splash of fresh lemon juice for a bright, fresh finish.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 1–2 pounds salmon fillet (large or individual pieces)
Seasoning and Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Fresh lemon juice, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and move the rack to the top third of the oven. Allow the salmon to come to room temperature for 15-20 minutes if possible to ensure even cooking.
- Melt Butter and Oil: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil and butter and melt it together in the microwave until fully combined and liquid.
- Prepare Salmon: Place the salmon skin-side down in a baking dish or on a foil-lined baking sheet. Season generously with salt and pepper. Pour the melted oil and butter mixture evenly over the salmon, then sprinkle the chopped parsley on top.
- Bake Salmon: If using a large single fillet about 1 inch thick, bake uncovered for 18-20 minutes. Check doneness by seeing if the salmon flakes easily with a fork. For thinner pieces, check after 15 minutes. If using individual fillets around 1 inch thick, bake for 12-15 minutes until flaky. Return to oven if it appears undercooked in the thickest part.
- Finish and Serve: Once cooked, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon. To serve, you can easily slide the flesh off the skin using a spatula or knife if you prefer not to eat the skin. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Letting the salmon rest at room temperature before baking ensures more even cooking.
- Use fresh parsley for the best flavor, but dried can be substituted if needed.
- If using a convection oven, reduce baking time slightly and keep a close eye to prevent overcooking.
- Do not overbake the salmon to keep it moist and flaky.
- You can use lemon wedges on the side for additional fresh lemon juice.
