This Oven Baked Salmon recipe is a delightful way to prepare a healthy and flavorful meal. The perfect combination of garlic butter and a brown sugar spice mix amplifies the natural flavors of salmon, making it suitable for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Enjoy this dish with minimal effort while impressing your guests with its rich taste and beautiful presentation.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful: The garlic butter and spice blend create a mouthwatering taste that elevates the salmon.
Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish fits well into clean eating plans.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it alongside veggies, grains, or salads for a complete meal that suits various diets.
Impressive Presentation: A whole salmon fillet looks stunning on any dining table, sure to wow your family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Oven Baked Salmon, you will need some essential tools in your kitchen. These tools will help you achieve the best results while keeping the process simple.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Aluminum foil
Mixing bowl
Brush for applying butter
Knife for chopping garlic

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for even cooking and prevents spills in the oven.
Aluminum foil: Creates a boat that keeps moisture in, ensuring the salmon stays juicy during baking.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining your ingredients smoothly before applying them to the salmon.

Ingredients

This Oven Baked Salmon is brushed with garlic butter, then sprinkled with a delicious brown sugar spice mix for the perfectly baked, flavorful salmon fillet.

For the Salmon

1 (2-pound) whole salmon fillet (skin-on preferred)

For the Garlic Butter Mix

3 tablespoons melted butter (OR olive oil)
2 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Spice Mix

1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon ground paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
¾ teaspoon salt
ground black pepper (to taste)

How to Make Oven Baked Salmon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. This temperature allows for even cooking while keeping the salmon moist.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Place a large piece of foil on a rimmed baking sheet. Lay the salmon fillet on top with the skin side down (pink side up). Crimp edges of foil around the salmon to create a little boat that will hold in moisture.

Step 3: Season the Salmon

In a small bowl, combine melted butter and minced garlic. Brush half of this mixture over the salmon fillet. In another small bowl, combine brown sugar, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the salmon. Drizzle with any remaining garlic butter.

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

Bake in your preheated oven for 15-22 minutes. The exact time depends on your preferred doneness level. Optionally, baste the salmon with its juices halfway through baking for extra flavor. Once done, remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Oven Baked Salmon

Serving Oven Baked Salmon can elevate your dining experience. From fresh salads to flavorful grains, there are numerous ways to complement this delicious main dish.

Fresh Salad

Mixed Greens: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes pairs well with the rich flavors of the salmon.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing adds a classic touch to your meal.

Grains

Quinoa: This protein-packed grain is nutty and chewy, making it a perfect base for your salmon.
Wild Rice: The earthy flavors of wild rice add depth to your plate and balance the richness of the salmon.

Vegetables

Roasted Asparagus: Simple roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil enhances the freshness of your meal.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while being a healthy side option.

Sauces

Lemon Butter Sauce: A zesty lemon butter sauce drizzled over the salmon brings brightness to each bite.
Tartar Sauce: Creamy tartar sauce provides a tangy contrast that complements the salmon’s flavor perfectly.

How to Perfect Oven Baked Salmon

To achieve the best results with your Oven Baked Salmon, follow these simple tips for a perfectly cooked dish.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh salmon and herbs for maximum flavor.
Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on cooking time; salmon should flake easily but remain moist.
Baste Often: Basting with juices halfway through helps keep the salmon juicy and flavorful.
Let It Rest: Allowing the salmon to rest before serving locks in moisture and enhances taste.

Best Side Dishes for Oven Baked Salmon

Pairing side dishes with Oven Baked Salmon can enhance its flavors and complete your meal. Here are some great options.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes mixed with garlic provide a comforting, rich side.
Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous tossed with vegetables and herbs adds a refreshing texture.
Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini drizzled with balsamic glaze offers a tasty veggie option.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw gives a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender salmon.
Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasted sweet potato wedges offer a sweet contrast that pairs well with savory salmon.
Corn on the Cob: Fresh corn on the cob adds sweetness and pairs beautifully with buttered baked salmon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Preparing Oven Baked Salmon can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can lead to less than perfect results.

Skipping the seasoning: Failing to properly season your salmon can make it bland. Always use a mix of spices and herbs for flavor.
Not checking doneness: Overcooking salmon leads to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the right internal temperature.
Using the wrong baking temperature: Baking at too high or too low temperatures can affect cooking time and texture. Stick to 375°F for best results.
Neglecting the skin: Cooking with the skin on helps retain moisture. Avoid removing it before baking for juicier salmon.
Baking without foil: Skipping foil can cause your salmon to dry out. Create a foil boat to keep moisture in while baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container.
Consume within 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Oven Baked Salmon

Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Oven Baked Salmon

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.
Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth, then cover and steam for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Oven Baked Salmon.

How long does it take to bake salmon in the oven?

Baking salmon usually takes between 15-22 minutes at 375°F, depending on thickness.

What’s the best way to season Oven Baked Salmon?

A mix of garlic butter, brown sugar, and Italian seasoning creates a delicious crust that enhances the salmon’s natural flavors.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes! Just ensure it is fully thawed before seasoning and baking for even cooking.

What should I serve with Oven Baked Salmon?

Pair it with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

This Oven Baked Salmon recipe is not only simple but also incredibly versatile! Feel free to customize the spices and sides according to your preferences. It’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort. Try it today!

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Oven Baked Salmon

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Author: Cara
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Oven Baked Salmon is an effortless yet impressive dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic butter and a brown sugar spice mix to enhance the natural taste of salmon. Perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties, this recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. The moist and tender salmon fillet is not only delicious but also a healthy choice, packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Serve it alongside fresh salads, grains, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal that will satisfy any palate.

Ingredients

Scale

1 (2-pound) whole salmon fillet (skin-on preferred)
3 tablespoons melted butter (or olive oil)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon ground paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
¾ teaspoon salt
Ground black pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F.
Place a large piece of aluminum foil on a rimmed baking sheet and lay the salmon fillet skin-side down.
In a small bowl, combine melted butter and minced garlic; brush half over the salmon.
Mix brown sugar, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in another bowl; sprinkle over the salmon and drizzle with remaining butter mixture.
Crimp the edges of the foil around the salmon to create a 'boat' to retain moisture.
Bake for 15-22 minutes until cooked through and flaky; let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: N/A