This oven-baked salmon is fantastic! It’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor without any fuss. Just season it, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen!
I love serving it with a side of veggies or a fresh salad. It’s an easy meal that makes me feel like a chef after just a little prep—who doesn’t love that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are key to this dish. If you’re looking for alternatives, trout or another fatty fish like mackerel can work well too. Both have a similar texture and flavor profile.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is the best choice for flavor. If you need a substitute, avocado oil is a great option as it has a higher smoke point and a neutral taste.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a wonderful depth to the salmon. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even a pinch of cayenne can add a nice kick.
Herbs: I use thyme and dill mainly, but fresh parsley or basil can also brighten the dish. Feel free to mix and match based on what you like or have in hand!
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Cooking salmon just right can be tricky! Here are some tips to get it tender and moist:
- Make sure to pat the salmon dry before seasoning. This helps the surface brown nicely.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. Salmon typically needs about 12-15 minutes in a 400°F oven. Check for flakiness!
- If you have a thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F, which means it’s just right.
With these tips and ingredients, you’re set to make an amazing oven-baked salmon. It’s simple, tasty, and always a crowd-pleaser! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Best Damn Oven Baked Salmon Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skinless or skin-on as preferred
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 tsp dried dill or fresh dill fronds, plus extra for garnish
- 1 lemon, sliced into rounds, plus extra lemon wedges for serving
For the Vegetables:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, followed by 12-15 minutes of baking time. In total, you’re looking at around 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature to get that lovely sear on the salmon while keeping it moist. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make for an easy clean-up later, or you can lightly grease it with oil.
2. Mix the Seasonings:
In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, thyme, and dill. This mix will add fantastic flavor to your salmon!
3. Prepare the Salmon:
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this helps them cook better. Rub each fillet evenly with olive oil to keep them moist and then sprinkle the seasoning mixture on all sides. Be sure to press lightly to make sure it sticks well!
4. Arrange the Asparagus:
On your prepared baking sheet, arrange the trimmed asparagus in a single layer. Drizzle them lightly with olive oil, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. This will make them tasty and complement the salmon perfectly!
5. Add the Salmon:
Place the seasoned salmon fillets right on top of the asparagus. Lay lemon slices around and under the salmon pieces. The lemon adds a great brightness and flavor while it bakes.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. You want the salmon to be just cooked through and flaky. Check it around the 12-minute mark, as cooking times can vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the tray from the oven. Garnish the salmon with fresh dill and serve it hot with additional lemon wedges for squeezing over. The aroma is divine, and you’re going to love every bite!
This recipe yields a beautifully spiced salmon with a deep, savory crust complemented by fresh lemon and herbs—simple to prepare but rich in flavor! Enjoy your “Best Damn Oven Baked Salmon!”
FAQ: Best Damn Oven Baked Salmon Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Make sure to fully thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight before cooking for the best results. If you’re short on time, you can also thaw it quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water.
What Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If asparagus isn’t your favorite, feel free to substitute it with other veggies like broccoli, green beans, or zucchini. Just adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable you choose; thicker vegetables may need a little longer to bake.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a hot skillet, but be careful not to overcook it again, as this can dry it out!
Can I Prep This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can season the salmon and prepare the asparagus up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This makes for a super quick meal when you’re short on time!
