Oven Baked Salmon
Craving a delicious and healthy meal? Try this Oven Baked Salmon with a tangy glaze that brings flavor and nutrition to your table. It's the perfect easy weeknight dinner that your family will love!
Equipment
- Chef's Knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Oven
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 2 lbs fresh salmon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp sugar
- 1/8 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/8 tsp garlic powder
- 1/8 tsp paprika
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350˚F (about 175˚C). This is an essential step that ensures the salmon cooks evenly and achieves that beautiful golden crust. While the oven warms up, take the time to prepare your baking sheet.
- Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze and helps prevent the salmon from sticking. I love using parchment paper for its non-stick properties, ensuring a perfect presentation when it’s time to serve.
- Next, in a small ramekin, combine 1/2 tsp of salt, 1/8 tsp of sugar, 1/8 tsp of ground black pepper, 1/8 tsp of garlic powder, and 1/8 tsp of paprika. Mix these ingredients together until well combined. This seasoning mix will add depth and enhance the salmon's natural flavors.
- Take your fresh salmon and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the top of the salmon. Be generous, ensuring every bite is flavorful. You want to see a nice coating of the seasoning on the salmon.
- Now, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise over the salmon. It’s tempting to slather it on, but remember that a little goes a long way. The mayonnaise not only adds flavor but also keeps the salmon nice and moist during cooking.
- Top the salmon with slices of lemon. The citrusy flavor will infuse into the fish during baking, offering a bright contrast to the richness of the salmon. Arrange the lemon slices to not only enhance the flavor but also to make the dish visually appealing.
- Cover the salmon with foil. This helps keep the moisture in while it bakes. You want the salmon to steam slightly, which will lead to that tender, flaky texture we all love.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it; every oven is a bit different! You want the salmon to be just cooked through.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil from the baking sheet. This is where the magic happens. Turn your oven to broil and let the salmon broil for about 3 minutes. The high heat will create a lovely golden crust on top that’s simply irresistible.
- Once the salmon has achieved a beautiful golden color, carefully remove it from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps your salmon moist and succulent.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to avoid drying it out.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked salmon for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
- Pairing: Serve with fluffy rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Variations: Try adding different herbs like dill or parsley for a fresh twist.