Baked salmon is a dish that proves that sometimes, the most simple and elegant meals are also the healthiest and most delicious. Salmon is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and a host of vitamins and minerals. But beyond its health benefits, salmon is also incredibly versatile and easy to cook, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining guests. This recipe for Lemon Herb Baked Salmon is a classic for a reason. The bright, zesty flavor of the lemon and the fresh, aromatic notes of the herbs beautifully complement the rich, buttery flavor of the salmon, creating a dish that is both light and satisfying.
The key to a perfect baked salmon is to start with a high-quality piece of fish. Look for a salmon fillet that has a vibrant pinkish-orange color and a fresh, clean smell. You can use a whole fillet or individual portions, depending on your preference. If you're using a fillet with the skin on, it will help to keep the fish moist during baking and will result in a crispy, delicious skin.
The preparation for this dish is incredibly simple. The salmon is placed on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, which makes for easy cleanup. The fish is then brushed with a little bit of olive oil and seasoned generously with salt and pepper. The star of the show, of course, is the combination of lemon and herbs. Thin slices of fresh lemon are placed on top of the salmon, and a generous amount of chopped fresh herbs are sprinkled over the top. The choice of herbs is up to you, but a combination of dill, parsley, and chives is a classic pairing with salmon. Dill provides a slightly sweet, anise-like flavor, parsley adds a fresh, clean taste, and chives contribute a mild oniony note. You could also use other herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a different flavor profile.
For an extra layer of flavor and to ensure the salmon stays incredibly moist, you can add a few pats of butter on top of the fillet before baking. As the butter melts, it will baste the salmon, adding richness and helping to create a beautiful golden-brown crust.
The baking time for salmon is relatively short. It's important not to overcook the salmon, as it can become dry and chalky. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillet, but a good rule of thumb is to bake it for about 12-15 minutes in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F). You'll know the salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork. If you have a meat thermometer, you can check for doneness by inserting it into the thickest part of the fillet; it should read around 60°C (140°F) for a medium-cooked salmon.
One of the great things about this recipe is that it's very versatile. You can easily customize it to your liking. You could add some minced garlic to the olive oil for an extra savory kick, or sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top for a bit of heat. You could also roast some vegetables alongside the salmon for a complete one-pan meal. Asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and sliced zucchini are all great options that cook in about the same amount of time as the salmon.
Lemon Herb Baked Salmon is a dish that is as beautiful as it is delicious. The vibrant colors of the pink salmon, yellow lemon, and green herbs make for a stunning presentation. It's a dish that is perfect for any occasion, from a simple family dinner to a sophisticated dinner party.
It's best served hot, straight from the oven. You can squeeze some extra fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving to brighten up the flavors even more. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a simple green salad. It's a meal that is light, healthy, and incredibly flavorful, and it's a testament to the fact that you don't need a lot of complicated ingredients or techniques to create a truly memorable meal.
Ingredients:
1 large salmon fillet (about 700-800g), or 4 individual salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 lemon, thinly sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place the salmon fillet, skin-side down, on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush the salmon with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
Arrange the lemon slices in a single layer over the top of the salmon.
In a small bowl, combine the chopped dill, parsley, and chives. Sprinkle the fresh herbs evenly over the salmon.
If using, dot the top of the salmon with the small pieces of butter.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve immediately, with extra lemon wedges on the side for squeezing.
