Are you tired of the same old boring fish recipes? Get ready to revolutionize your meal prep with the ultimate salmon guide that will turn your kitchen into a gourmet restaurant! Imagine enjoying restaurant-quality salmon without the hefty price tag, all while keeping your meals exciting and nutritious. This foolproof recipe will transform your relationship with seafood, proving that healthy eating can be both simple and incredibly delicious.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, etc.)
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 salmon fillets, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 lemon sliced into rounds, salt and pepper to taste, and a selection of fresh herbs such as dill and parsley.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will ensure the salmon cooks evenly and retains its moisture.
- While the oven is preheating, prepare the salmon fillets. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear.
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with a pinch of salt and pepper. Brush this mixture over both sides of the salmon fillets, ensuring they are well-coated for flavor and moisture.
- Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Arrange the lemon slices on top of each fillet, which will add flavor and moisture during cooking.
- Sprinkle fresh herbs over the salmon, adding a burst of flavor and a touch of color. You can use a combination of dill and parsley, or any herbs you prefer.
- Once the oven is preheated, place the baking sheet with the salmon in the oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- While the salmon is baking, you can prepare side dishes. Consider serving the salmon with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Once the salmon is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful fillet.
- Serve the salmon fillets warm, garnished with additional fresh herbs and lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy your meal!
- For variety throughout the week, consider preparing the salmon in different ways: grill it, make salmon tacos, flake it into salads, or serve it with pasta. Each method can incorporate the same ingredients with slight variations in preparation.
Tips
- Always pat your salmon dry before cooking to achieve a perfect golden sear and prevent steaming.
- Use fresh herbs to elevate the flavor profile - dill and parsley work wonderfully with salmon.
- Don't overcook! Salmon is best when it's still slightly translucent in the center, which keeps it moist and tender.
- Invest in a meat thermometer to ensure you hit the perfect 145°F internal temperature.
- Let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to redistribute the juices and maximize flavor.
- Experiment with marinades and seasonings to keep your salmon recipes interesting throughout the week.
- Consider using parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup and to prevent the fish from sticking to the baking sheet.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 297kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 70mg
