Baked Salmon Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Making baked salmon is simple, yet it feels like a fancy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, even on busy weeknights, and the results are always impressive. The salmon turns out tender and flaky, with a deliciously crispy top that’s full of flavor. It’s a healthy dish packed with omega-3s, so you can feel good about serving it to your family. Plus, it’s so versatile—you can pair it with almost any side dish for a complete meal.

Recipe

Baked salmon is a healthy and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its tender, flaky texture and rich taste, it’s sure to impress.

2 lbs salmon fillet, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 lemon (sliced), 1 tbsp fresh dill (chopped), 1/2 tsp paprika.

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the salmon fillet on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and rub it evenly. Season with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and paprika. Arrange lemon slices on top and sprinkle with fresh dill. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Serve immediately.

For extra flavor, marinate the salmon in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for 30 minutes before baking. Confirm the salmon is at room temperature before placing it in the oven for even cooking.

Prep Time: 10 minutes, Cooking Time: 20 minutes, Serves: 4.

Nutrition

The nutritional content of baked salmon can vary based on the ingredients and portion size. Below is a general breakdown for a standard serving.

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my baked salmon with simple sides like roasted asparagus or garlic mashed potatoes—they’re easy to make and taste amazing together. If I’m feeling fancy, a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, really brings out the flavors of the dish. Let’s talk about the best sides and drinks to make your salmon dinner even better.

Side Dishes

Pairing baked salmon with the right side dishes can turn a simple meal into something special. I love serving it with grilled vegetables—zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add a smoky, fresh touch. A light quinoa salad, tossed with lemon vinaigrette and herbs, complements the salmon’s richness perfectly. These sides are easy to prepare, and they balance the meal, making it feel both hearty and healthy.

Wine Pairings

While the right side dishes can make baked salmon shine, let’s not forget about the perfect wine to go with it. I usually lean toward a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio—they’re light and invigorating, complementing the fish perfectly. If you’re into red wine, go for a lighter option like Pinot Noir, which won’t overpower the salmon’s delicate flavor. Cheers!