To bake salmon in the oven, follow these expert steps for a moist, flavorful result:
Ingredients (basic example)
- Salmon fillets (fresh or properly thawed)
- Olive oil or melted butter
- Salt and pepper
- Garlic (minced)
- Lemon juice and lemon slices
- Optional herbs (Italian seasoning, dill, parsley)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F to 400°F depending on your recipe preference (375°F is a common moderate temperature for even cooking)
- Prepare the salmon:
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down on a greased or foil-lined baking sheet or dish
* Season generously with salt and pepper.
* Mix olive oil or melted butter with minced garlic, lemon juice, and herbs if desired.
* Brush or spoon this mixture over the salmon, coating all sides
- Add lemon slices on top of the fillets for extra flavor and garnish
- Bake the salmon in the oven:
- For fillets about 6 ounces each, bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork
* For larger pieces or whole sides, bake 15 to 20 minutes at 375°F, adjusting time based on thickness
* Avoid overcooking to keep the salmon moist; it should still look juicy and slightly translucent in the center when done
- Optional finishing step: Broil for 1-3 minutes at the end to get a lightly crispy top
- Rest the salmon for a few minutes after removing from the oven to allow juices to redistribute
Tips for Perfect Baked Salmon
- Let salmon come to room temperature before baking for even cooking
- Keep the skin on to help retain moisture
- Use foil packets to lock in moisture and make cleanup easier
- Use a meat thermometer if available; salmon is done at an internal temperature of about 125°F to 145°F depending on preference
This method yields tender, flaky salmon with a flavorful garlic-lemon herb coating, perfect for a healthy and easy meal
