If you’re on the hunt for a quick and delicious dinner option that impresses without the fuss, look no further than this Easy Baked Salmon by Sonja Overhiser. Perfectly seasoned and bursting with flavor, this oven-baked dish is ready in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Say goodbye to bland seafood and hello to a tender, flaky fillet topped with a delightful crispy crust. Join us as we explore the simple steps to create a meal that will have your family and friends raving about your culinary skills!
Category | Details |
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Recipe Title | Easy Baked Salmon by Sonja Overhiser |
Last Updated | January 23, 2025 |
Cooking Time | 20 minutes |
Key Ingredients | Salmon fillet, brown sugar, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, cumin, salt, olive oil |
Cooking Steps | 1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). 2. Place room temperature salmon on foil-lined baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season. 3. Bake for 10 to 16 minutes until tender and pink at center (125-130°F). |
Sauce Ideas | Garlic butter, lemon butter, mustard sauce, classic remoulade, dill sauce, chimichurri |
Recommended Sides | Green salads, sautéed veggies (green beans, peas, broccoli, spinach), whole grains (lemon rice, couscous, quinoa) |
Leftover Storage | Refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or 400°F oven. |
Dietary Notes | Pescatarian, dairy-free, gluten-free |
Introduction to Oven-Baked Salmon
Cooking can be a lot of fun, especially when you have a simple and delicious recipe! Today, we’re going to learn about making oven-baked salmon. This dish is not only tasty but also quick to prepare, taking just 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for busy nights or when you want to impress your family and friends with a yummy meal that’s easy to make.
Salmon is a popular fish known for its rich flavor and health benefits. It’s packed with proteins and good fats that help keep our bodies healthy. With this oven-baked salmon recipe, you can enjoy a delightful dinner that is sure to please everyone at the table. So, let’s dive in and see how to create this fantastic dish that will have your loved ones asking for seconds!
Choosing the Best Salmon Fillet
Selecting the right salmon fillet is crucial to making your dish taste amazing. When shopping for salmon, opt for pieces that are about 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick, often labeled as ‘center cut’. Fresh salmon is always the best choice, so look for fish that comes straight from the fish counter instead of frozen options.
Wild-caught salmon is often fresher and tastier than farmed salmon. It’s vital to examine the color and smell of the fish before buying. A good fillet should look bright and vibrant, with no unpleasant odors. By choosing quality salmon, you set the foundation for a delicious oven-baked meal!
Seasoning Your Salmon to Perfection
The secret to making your oven-baked salmon incredibly flavorful lies in the seasoning. This recipe uses a delightful combination of brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, cumin, and salt. This blend not only enhances the taste but also gives the salmon a lovely crispy topping.
To season your salmon, simply mix the spices together and sprinkle them generously over the fish. The brown sugar will caramelize in the oven, creating a sweet and savory crust that everyone will love. Don’t skip this step, as it makes all the difference in flavor!
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions
Baking salmon is super easy! First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature ensures that your salmon cooks evenly and quickly. While the oven heats, let your salmon sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly.
Next, lay the salmon on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Drizzle some olive oil on top, then sprinkle your prepared seasoning mixture over the fish. Place the salmon in the oven and bake for 10 to 16 minutes. It’s done when it’s tender and pink in the center, reaching an internal temperature between 125°F to 130°F.
Delicious Sauce Ideas for Salmon
While this baked salmon is delicious on its own, adding a sauce can elevate the dish even more! One tasty option is a garlic butter sauce, which adds a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the fish. Simply melt some butter and mix in minced garlic and herbs for a delightful drizzle.
Another great choice is a tangy chimichurri sauce made from fresh cilantro and parsley. This bright green sauce adds a fresh twist and can really complement the baked salmon. Feel free to experiment with different sauces to find your favorite combination!
Perfect Side Dishes to Complement Salmon
To make your baked salmon meal truly special, you can add some tasty side dishes! Fresh green salads are a great choice because they add crunch and freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the fish. You can toss in some colorful veggies to make the salad even more exciting!
Another excellent side is sautéed vegetables, such as green beans or broccoli. These veggies are easy to prepare and can be cooked on the stove while the salmon bakes in the oven. Whole grains like quinoa or couscous also pair well, giving your meal a healthy boost!
Storing Leftover Salmon Safely
If you happen to have any leftover salmon, don’t worry! You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to put it in a sealed container to keep it fresh. Leftover salmon can taste just as good the next day!
To reheat your salmon, you can use a skillet over medium heat or pop it back in the oven at 400°F until it’s warmed through. This way, you can enjoy your delicious meal again without losing any flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to bake salmon?
Baking salmon takes just 20 minutes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for a quick and tasty meal.
What ingredients do I need for baked salmon?
You’ll need salmon, brown sugar, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, cumin, salt, and olive oil.
How can I achieve a crispy topping on my salmon?
For a crispy topping, use a hint of brown sugar in your seasoning before baking.
What are some good side dishes to serve with salmon?
Pair baked salmon with fresh green salads, sautéed veggies, or whole grains like quinoa or couscous.
Can I store leftover salmon, and how?
Yes, leftover salmon can be stored in a sealed container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
What sauces can I add to my baked salmon?
You can enhance baked salmon with garlic butter sauce, creamy mustard sauce, or a fresh chimichurri.
Is this baked salmon recipe suitable for special diets?
Yes, this recipe is pescatarian, dairy-free, and gluten-free, making it great for various dietary needs.
Summary
Easy Baked Salmon by Sonja Overhiser is a quick and flavorful recipe perfect for busy weeknights, taking only 20 minutes to prepare. The salmon is seasoned with a mix of brown sugar, smoked paprika, and herbs, resulting in a tender fillet with a crispy topping. This recipe is highly praised for its simplicity and delicious taste, making it a family favorite. Serve it with easy sides like green salads or sautéed veggies for a complete meal. Leftover salmon can be stored for up to three days, making it a convenient option for any pescatarian diet.