This easy oven roasted salmon is a tasty and healthy dinner option. Just season the fish, pop it in the oven, and wait for that delicious aroma to fill your kitchen!
I love how quickly it cooks—perfect for busy nights when you want something special without the fuss. Pair it with veggies or rice for a complete meal, and enjoy! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best, but you can use frozen ones too. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. If you’re looking for alternatives, trout or arctic char work well and have a similar texture and flavor.
Olive Oil & Butter: The mix of these fats adds flavor and moisture. You could use avocado oil for a different taste. If you’re dairy-free, olive oil alone will suffice.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives great flavor, but garlic powder can be an alternative if that’s all you have. Just reduce the amount since it’s more concentrated (about 1/3 tsp should do).
Herbs: Dried thyme and parsley are easy to find, but you can switch them up! Fresh dill, oregano, or basil would add a nice touch too. Experiment to find what you enjoy!
Lemon: Fresh lemon slices add zing, but if you don’t have any, lime or even vinegar can be used for acidity. Just keep it to a small amount!
How Can I Ensure My Salmon is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting salmon just right can be tricky, but here are some helpful tips:
- Always preheat your oven! It helps cook the salmon evenly.
- For even cooking, use fillets of similar thickness.
- Check for doneness at the lower end of cooking time. Salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- If you like it with a bit of a crisp outside, broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking to give it that golden finish.
Your salmon dinner will impress with these simple tips and tricks! Enjoy your cooking journey!
Easy Oven Roasted Salmon
Ingredients:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (reserve a few slices for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Optional: asparagus spears or other veggies for roasting alongside
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 12-15 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick yet delightful dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, by the time you’re ready to cook, it’ll be hot and ready to go! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. This mixture is going to add flavor and moisture to the salmon.
3. Place the Salmon:
Put the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if your fillets have skin. This will help keep the salmon moist as it cooks.
4. Add the Mixture:
Using a brush or a spoon, generously coat each salmon fillet with the olive oil and butter mixture, making sure they are well covered.
5. Add Lemon Slices:
Top each fillet with a few thin slices of lemon. This adds a refreshing burst of flavor while the salmon cooks.
6. (Optional) Add Veggies:
If you’d like, arrange asparagus or other vegetables around the salmon. Drizzle them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper for added flavor.
7. Roast the Salmon:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and roast the salmon for 12-15 minutes. It’s ready when it flakes easily with a fork. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets.
8. Finish Up:
Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven. Drizzle a bit more melted butter or olive oil over the top if you like, and garnish with chopped parsley for a beautiful finish.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious salmon right away with your favorite sides, such as rice or a fresh salad. Enjoy your meal!
This simple and flavorful oven-baked salmon showcases a juicy, tender interior with a lightly crisp lemon-herb crust. It’s a fantastic choice for a quick weeknight meal or when entertaining guests!
FAQ for Easy Oven Roasted Salmon
Can I Use Frozen Salmon Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! You can use frozen salmon fillets, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best method is to leave them in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for quicker thawing.
How Can I Tell When the Salmon is Cooked Perfectly?
The salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you’re unsure, you can insert a fork into the thickest part and twist gently; it should come apart easily without being raw in the middle.
What Vegetables Can I Roast Alongside the Salmon?
Great options include asparagus, broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. Toss them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper before placing them on the baking sheet!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave, but avoid overheating to keep it tender.
