Oven Baked Salmon

Oven Baked Salmon is a healthy, flavorful, and incredibly easy dish that’s perfect for both quick weeknight dinners and elegant special occasions. With a tender, flaky texture and a simple seasoning, this salmon recipe brings out the natural richness of the fish without overwhelming it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it’s quick to prepare, uses minimal ingredients, and delivers consistently delicious results. Baking salmon in the oven ensures even cooking and preserves the fish’s moisture, making it a foolproof method for perfectly cooked, flavorful salmon every time. Plus, it’s versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Salmon fillets (skin on or off, your choice)
• Olive oil
• Lemon slices
• Fresh garlic cloves (minced)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh dill or parsley (optional for garnish)

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
3. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and rub it evenly.
5. Season the fillets with salt and black pepper.
6. Sprinkle the minced garlic over the salmon.
7. Lay lemon slices over each fillet.
8. Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
9. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley before serving if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: About 20 minutes

Variations

• Add a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
• Brush the salmon with a honey-mustard glaze before baking for a sweet and tangy twist.
• Swap lemon for lime and add a sprinkle of chili powder for a southwestern flavor.
• Top the salmon with a thin layer of pesto before baking for a herbaceous upgrade.
• Bake the salmon with a mix of vegetables like asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for an all-in-one meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the salmon in a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can gently reheat it in a covered skillet over low heat. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the salmon.

FAQs

What is the best type of salmon for baking?

Atlantic salmon, King salmon, or Sockeye salmon are all great choices for baking due to their rich flavor and texture.

Should I bake salmon covered or uncovered?

Bake the salmon uncovered for a crispier texture; covering it will steam the fish for an extra moist result.

How do I know when salmon is fully cooked?

The salmon should easily flake with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I bake frozen salmon?

Yes, but you’ll need to add 5–7 minutes to the cooking time and season it after about 5 minutes of baking.

What sides go well with oven baked salmon?

Try serving it with rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Can I marinate the salmon before baking?

Absolutely. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs works wonderfully.

Should I remove the skin before baking?

It’s a personal preference; keeping the skin on helps retain moisture and can be easily removed after baking.

How thick should salmon fillets be for baking?

About 1 inch thick is ideal for even cooking; adjust bake time if the fillets are thinner or thicker.

What oven rack position is best for baking salmon?

Bake the salmon in the center of the oven for even heat distribution.

Can I add vegetables to the same baking sheet?

Yes, just choose quick-cooking vegetables or cut them small to match the salmon’s bake time.

Conclusion

Oven Baked Salmon is a simple, healthy, and incredibly satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe offers a stress-free way to enjoy the rich, buttery flavor of salmon with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Print