There’s something about a perfectly baked salmon that just sings to my soul! Every time I make this Oven Baked Salmon recipe, I am transported back to summer picnics by the lake with my family. We would grill fish outdoors while the sun set gently over the water, enjoying each other’s company and the delicious scents wafting through the air. This dish has that same flavor-packed goodness but comes together with minimal fuss right in your oven. Let me tell you, you don’t have to wait for a BBQ to have a feast!
This recipe is easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests. The skin-on salmon stays moist while soaking up all those delicious flavors from the seasoning mix. What’s not to love? Now, without further ado, let’s see what makes this dish come together!
What’s in Oven Baked Salmon?
Salmon Fillet: Fresh, skin-on salmon is the star of the show here. I love using wild-caught salmon when I can find it, as it tends to have a richer flavor. The skin not only helps to keep the flesh tender during baking but also provides a slightly crispy texture when done right!
Olive Oil: This brings richness and moisture to the dish. I prefer extra virgin olive oil because of its robust flavor and health benefits. Plus, it helps the spices stick to the salmon!
Garlic Powder: A bit of garlic powder adds a lovely depth of flavor without the hassle of mincing fresh garlic. It’s perfect for those busy nights when you want to keep things simple.
Paprika: This spice brings a beautiful color to our salmon and a touch of smokiness that elevates the dish—sweet paprika works best but feel free to experiment!
Dried Oregano: This herb offers a lovely Mediterranean twist and pairs wonderfully with salmon. If you’ve got fresh oregano lying around, even better!
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors in our dish. I always opt for kosher salt for a more balanced flavor.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh taste that brightens up each bite.
Lemon Wedges: Adding a squeeze of lemon juice right before you dig in really brings the flavors alive. Trust me on this one!
Is Oven Baked Salmon Good for You?
Absolutely! Oven Baked Salmon is not just delicious, but it’s packed with health benefits.
Salmon: This fish is a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are critical for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation in the body. Plus, it’s loaded with high-quality protein!
Olive Oil: It’s rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help you maintain a healthy weight and lower your risk of heart disease.
These wholesome ingredients make this dish a great option any day of the week. Just be mindful of the portion size, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.
Ingredients List
– 1 pound salmon fillet, skin-on
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Lemon wedges (for serving)
This recipe serves 2-4, depending on how hungry you are!
How to Make Oven Baked Salmon?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking tray with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and to help retain moisture.
3. Place the salmon fillet on the prepared baking tray, skin side down.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper to form a seasoning paste.
5. Spread the seasoning mixture evenly over the top of the salmon fillet.
6. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for added flavor. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions & Tips for Perfect Salmon!
Now that you’ve mastered the basics of baked salmon, how can we jazz it up? Here are a few of my favorite tricks:
– **Veggie Sidekick:** Roast some asparagus, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes on a separate tray in the oven while the salmon bakes. Simple olive oil, salt, and pepper are all you need!
– **Grain Lover’s Delight:** Serve your salmon over a fluffy bed of quinoa or brown rice for a heartier meal.
– **Flavor Boost:** Mix in a bit of honey or maple syrup to the seasoning paste for a sweet-and-savory combo that’s to die for!
I’d love for you to give this Oven Baked Salmon a try! It’s simple yet bursting with flavor, and the cleanup is a breeze. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is bound to impress. If you do make it, drop a comment to let me know how it turned out—I can’t wait to hear about your delicious experience! Happy cooking!
