I remember the first time I tried to make salmon. I was so intimidated! I thought it would be complicated and finicky, and I was convinced I’d overcook it. Turns out, I DID overcook it! It was dry and rubbery, and honestly, inedible. My husband, bless his heart, choked it down with a smile, but I knew I could do better. That’s when I started experimenting and landed on this oven-baked salmon recipe.

The “aha” moment came when I realized the key was low and slow baking and a simple lemon-dill sauce. That gentle heat keeps the salmon moist and flaky, and the lemon brightens everything up. Now, this oven-baked salmon recipe is a regular on our dinner table. On crazy nights when I don’t have a lot of time, it takes almost no time to prep, I can throw it in the oven and focus on helping the kids with their homework. It’s a healthy salmon recipe I feel good about serving my family.

It took a few tries to get the salmon baking temperature just right, but now I can practically make it in my sleep. I’ve even tweaked it over the years to include some fun variations, but the basic oven-baked salmon recipe remains the same. Trust me, once you try this oven-baked salmon recipe, it’ll become a staple in your house, too. It’s really the perfect easy salmon recipe!

Ingredients for the Perfect Oven-Baked Salmon

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this amazing oven-baked salmon recipe. I always try to keep these ingredients on hand, because, like I said, it’s a lifesaver!

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4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off (your preference!)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)

I always use wild-caught salmon for my oven-baked salmon recipe because I like the flavor and texture better. It tends to be a bit leaner, too. But farm-raised works just fine if that’s what you prefer or what’s available. When making oven-baked salmon recipe, you can usually find great salmon at the seafood counter of your local grocery store. If you’re buying frozen, just make sure it’s completely thawed before you start.

Here’s a oven-baked salmon recipe trick I learned from my mom: gently pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel before seasoning. This helps the seasonings adhere better and also helps the salmon get a nice little crust in the oven. It makes a big difference! The drier the surface of the salmon, the better it will sear and the more the flavors will concentrate, creating a delicious, crispy exterior.

For the lemon juice, fresh is definitely best when preparing this oven-baked salmon recipe. The bottled stuff just doesn’t have the same bright, zesty flavor. As for shortcuts, you can buy pre-minced garlic, but honestly, mincing it yourself only takes a minute and the flavor is so much better. To save money on the dill, try growing your own! It’s super easy to grow in a pot on your windowsill. Store leftover dill in the fridge wrapped in a damp paper towel. It will last longer that way.

If you have leftover salmon after making this oven-baked salmon recipe, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s great flaked into salads or added to pasta! Salmon’s versatility makes it perfect for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week.

How to Make Oven-Baked Salmon – Step-by-Step

Alright, let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make my famous oven-baked salmon recipe, step-by-step. Don’t worry, it’s so easy, even the kids can help!

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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the magic salmon baking temperature for perfectly cooked, flaky salmon.
Prepare the salmon. Gently pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This is super important for getting a nice sear. Then, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. This makes cleanup a breeze!
Make the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, dill, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Give it a good whisk until everything is well combined.
Dress the salmon. Spoon the sauce evenly over the salmon fillets. Make sure each fillet is nicely coated. If you want, you can even rub the sauce in a little with your fingers.
Bake the salmon. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your fillets.
Check for doneness. The best way to check if the salmon is done is to use a fork to gently flake it. If it separates easily and is opaque throughout, it’s ready! You can also use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Garnish and serve. Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the oven and garnish with lemon slices, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Don’t worry if your oven-baked salmon recipe starts to brown a little on top. That’s just the sugars in the lemon juice caramelizing. It adds a nice flavor! I learned the hard way with oven-baked salmon recipe that you really have to keep an eye on it during those last few minutes of cooking. It can go from perfectly cooked to overdone in a flash. Using a timer can be extremely helpful in preventing overcooking.

In my kitchen, oven-baked salmon recipe usually takes about 13 minutes to cook perfectly. While the oven-baked salmon recipe is cooking, I usually throw together a quick salad or steam some veggies to go with it. Your oven-baked salmon recipe should smell like a bright, lemony, herby dream! It’s one of my favorite smells!

My family loves this oven-baked salmon recipe because it’s so quick and easy. It’s ready in about 30 minutes start to finish! It’s also a super versatile and healthy salmon recipe. It’s a win-win for everyone!

Serving Suggestions for Oven-Baked Salmon

Okay, so the oven-baked salmon recipe is done! Now what? Well, here’s how we like to enjoy it in my house. The kids love our oven-baked salmon recipe when I serve it with roasted potatoes and steamed broccoli. They’re not always the biggest fans of fish, but something about the lemony flavor makes them gobble it right up.

My go-to side dishes that pair with oven-baked salmon recipe are quinoa and asparagus. The quinoa is a healthy and filling grain, and the asparagus is a nice, green veggie that complements the salmon perfectly. Plus, they’re both easy to cook! This oven-baked salmon recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, but it’s also elegant enough to serve to guests. I often make it when we have friends over for dinner.

For presentation, I like to place the salmon fillet on a plate with a generous serving of the side dish. Then, I drizzle a little extra lemon juice over the salmon and garnish with a sprig of fresh dill. It looks so pretty and inviting! The vibrant colors and fresh aromas make it a feast for the senses.

If you have extra oven-baked salmon recipe, don’t throw it away! It’s delicious cold in a salad the next day. I also like to flake it into omelets or frittatas for a protein-packed breakfast. You could even make salmon patties with it! Leftover salmon is surprisingly versatile and can be transformed into many exciting dishes.

For seasonal variations, try adding different herbs to the sauce. In the summer, I like to use basil and parsley. In the fall, I might add a pinch of dried thyme or rosemary. My friends always ask for this oven-baked salmon recipe recipe when I make it for them. They’re always amazed at how easy it is to make and how delicious it tastes. I once made it for a dinner party and everyone raved about it for weeks!

I also love using this method with other types of fish. Check out this Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe for some inspiration!

Frequently Asked Questions About Oven-Baked Salmon

Alright, let’s tackle some common questions I get about this oven-baked salmon recipe. I’ve definitely been there with the cooking struggles!

How do I keep my oven-baked salmon recipe from drying out?

This is a big one! You know what I do when my oven-baked salmon recipe starts to dry out? I make sure not to overcook it! Salmon is best when it’s slightly undercooked in the center. It will continue to cook a bit as it rests. Also, the lemon-dill sauce helps to keep it moist. Make sure you coat the salmon well with the sauce before baking. The sauce acts as a protective barrier, keeping the salmon juicy and flavorful.

What if I don’t have fresh dill? Can I use dried?

Yes, you can use dried dill! But remember that dried herbs are more potent than fresh, so you’ll need to use less. I usually use about 1 teaspoon of dried dill in place of 2 tablespoons of fresh dill in this oven-baked salmon recipe. Dried dill offers a concentrated flavor, so a little goes a long way.

Can I use frozen salmon for this oven-baked salmon recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. I like to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. You can also thaw it quickly by placing it in a sealed bag in a bowl of cold water. Just be sure to change the water every 30 minutes or so. Thawing the salmon completely ensures even cooking and prevents a rubbery texture.

What’s the best way to tell if my oven-baked salmon recipe is done?

The best way is to use a fork to gently flake it. If it separates easily and is opaque throughout, it’s ready! You can also use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). The flakiness and opacity are key indicators of perfectly cooked salmon.

Can I add vegetables to the baking sheet with the oven-baked salmon recipe?

Yes, you can! This is a great way to make a one-pan meal. I like to add broccoli florets, asparagus spears, or sliced bell peppers to the baking sheet with the salmon. Just toss the vegetables with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper before adding them to the pan. Keep in mind the cooking time might vary with the addition of vegetables. Roasting the vegetables alongside the salmon infuses them with delicious flavors.

My oven-baked salmon recipe always sticks to the baking sheet. What am I doing wrong?

This is a common problem! Make sure you line the baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This will prevent the salmon from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Lining the baking sheet is a simple step that saves a lot of hassle.

Can I make this oven-baked salmon recipe ahead of time?

You can, but it’s best served fresh. If you do make it ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently in the oven or microwave before serving. My blog readers have also said that baking the salmon on cedar planks adds to the flavor. Cedar planks impart a smoky aroma that complements the salmon beautifully.

Here are some additional resources for proper fish handling:*FDA Safe Handling of Raw Fish** Salmon Facts*

Final Thoughts on My Favorite Salmon Recipe

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This oven-baked salmon recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s a dish that I know I can always rely on. It’s quick, easy, healthy, and delicious – everything a busy mom could ask for! It’s proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques to create a meal that your family will love. This healthy salmon recipe has become a tradition in my house!

Before I let you go, here are a few of my oven-baked salmon recipe pro tips:

Pro Tip #1: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices in the sauce. That’s how I found my favorite variation with cilantro!
Pro Tip #2: If you’re short on time, you can skip the lemon slices and just squeeze some lemon juice over the salmon before serving. It will still taste amazing!
Pro Tip #3: To prevent the salmon from sticking to the baking sheet, spray it with cooking spray before adding the parchment paper or foil.

And here are a few oven-baked salmon recipe variations we’ve tried and loved:

Honey-Garlic Salmon: Replace the Dijon mustard with honey for a sweeter flavor.
Spicy Salmon: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
Maple-Glazed Salmon: Brush the salmon with maple syrup during the last few minutes of baking for a caramelized finish.

Liam, my son, loves the honey-garlic version, while my daughter, Sophie, is a big fan of the spicy salmon. My husband, he’s happy with any version as long as it’s salmon!

I truly hope you give this oven-baked salmon recipe a try. I have a similar recipe you might also enjoy: Baked Texas Trash Cheese Dip. I hope you’ll share it with your family, and that it becomes a staple in your home, too. Remember, cooking should be fun and relaxing. It’s a great way to share your love with those you care about. This easy salmon recipe will surely be a regular in your house. So go ahead, grab those ingredients, and get cooking! You got this!

My Go-To Oven-Baked Salmon Recipe

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Discover the secrets to perfectly oven-baked salmon every time. These tips will ensure moist, flavorful results that will impress your family and friends.

Author: Zoubida
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Seafood
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Salmon fillets, skin on or off
Olive oil
Lemon slices
Fresh herbs (dill, parsley)
Salt and pepper

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Top with lemon slices and fresh herbs.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve immediately.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the salmon for 30 minutes before baking. You can also add other vegetables to the baking sheet, such as asparagus or broccoli.