Have you ever craved a delicious and healthy meal that doesn't take hours to prepare? Look no further! This Easy Healthy Baked Salmon recipe is the answer to your prayers. With a burst of lemon and garlic flavor, this salmon dish is both quick and satisfying, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
This is an image of the mouthwatering salmon dish.
Let me tell you, I absolutely adore salmon. If I had to pick one animal-based protein to live on for the rest of my life, it would definitely be salmon. I enjoy chicken and steak, but when it comes down to it, salmon wins every time.
This Easy Healthy Baked Salmon recipe is exactly as the name suggests: easy, healthy, and incredibly delicious. It's a foolproof way to achieve perfectly flaky and flavorful salmon every single time. While I have shared various salmon recipes in the past, it's about time I shared this simple and straightforward gem with you.
How to Make this Baked Salmon Recipe
Ingredients You'll Need
- Salmon Fillets: Look for fresh salmon fillets that are pink and moist. Alternatively, you can use vacuum-sealed frozen fillets.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to, but any kind will work.
- Salt: Kosher salt or Himalayan pink salt are excellent choices.
- Cracked Black Pepper: Start with a little pepper and adjust to taste.
- Minced Garlic: You can either purchase minced garlic in oil or mince your own.
- Italian Herb Seasoning Blend: Don't skimp on the aromatic flavors of Italian seasonings.
- Lemon: A medium-sized lemon is sufficient, or use a larger one if you love the tangy tartness of extra lemon.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and grease a large baking pan. Arrange the salmon fillets on the baking sheet and season generously with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, stir together the olive oil, garlic, herbs, and juice of half a lemon. Spoon this sauce over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are fully coated. Place a slice of lemon on top of each piece of salmon.
- Bake the salmon in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until it becomes opaque and flaky when pulled apart with a fork. If desired, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired and serve.
Behold the perfectly baked salmon.
The Five Types of Salmon
Did you know there are five main kinds of salmon? These varieties can range from small five-pound fish to massive 126-pound monsters. Some live in freshwater, some in saltwater, and some in both, depending on the season. Let me introduce you to the five main types of Pacific salmon:
- Sockeye Salmon: It's red in color and lower in fat compared to other varieties, making it quite popular and tasty.
- King or Chinook Salmon: This variety is high in fat and often found in high-end fish markets or fancy restaurants. It offers a delightful texture.
- Pink Salmon: It's a smaller, pale variety commonly used in the canning process.
- Chum Salmon: This type is popular for its roe or eggs, often seen in sushi rolls.
- Coho Salmon: It's a milder-tasting fish and is often featured in photographs of fishermen boasting about their catch.
Is Salmon Healthy?
Absolutely! Salmon is an excellent source of animal protein and omega-3 fatty acids. It's also packed with protein, vitamin B, calcium, potassium, and antioxidants. Compared to red meat options, salmon is lower in calories and saturated fats. Plus, it contains zero carbs, fiber, or sugar. Eating salmon can contribute to lower cholesterol levels and make a fantastic Meatless Monday option.
Marvel at the health benefits of salmon.
How to Shop for Salmon
Shopping for salmon is a breeze if you follow these simple tips:
- Ensure there is no fishy smell. Fresh salmon should have no unpleasant odor.
- Avoid dried-out or discolored salmon with brown spots or bruising.
- Look for vibrantly colored flesh, not pale or anemic in appearance.
- If purchasing frozen or pre-packaged salmon, check for intact packaging without any signs of damage.
- Read the label and avoid products with "color-added" or excessive ingredients.
- Seek advice from a fishmonger if you have any doubts or questions.
Choose the freshest salmon on your shopping trip.
The Best Temperature for Baking Salmon
For perfectly cooked salmon, aim for an internal temperature of 110 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit in the center of the thickest part of the meat. Baking or grilling each side for around four to six minutes at the appropriate temperature should achieve this. You can serve salmon anywhere from medium-rare to medium well-done.
How to Know When Salmon is Done Baking
If you don't have a meat thermometer, don't worry. There are other ways to determine if your salmon is cooked to perfection. As the salmon bakes, it transitions from red to pink. You can verify doneness by cutting into the thickest part of the fish with a knife. The center should still be slightly translucent and beginning to flake.
Tips for Perfectly Baked Salmon
Want to take your salmon baking game to the next level? Check out these tips:
- Avoid cooking salmon at too high or too low of a temperature as it can dry out. You can cover the salmon while it cooks to retain moisture.
- Leaving the skin on can act as a natural barrier, ensuring the salmon stays moist.
- Cooking at a gentle, low heat is the key to perfectly baked salmon every time.
- Remember, salmon only needs to be cooked in the oven for about 12-15 minutes. Overcooking will result in dry and overdone fish.
How to Store and Reheat
Storing leftover salmon is a breeze. Place it in an airtight container or tightly wrap it in aluminum foil and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for approximately 3-4 days.
For reheating, warm the salmon slowly on low heat and add a splash of water for added moisture. I recommend using the oven or stovetop rather than the microwave, as microwaving can often dry out the meat.
Discover the joy of reheated salmon.
If you enjoy simple and easy recipes, I have a few more suggestions for you. Give my Best Healthy Grilled Chicken, Instant Pot Balsamic Pork Tenderloin, or Garlic Lime Shrimp Marinade a try.
More Delicious Salmon Recipes
If you can't get enough of salmon, here are some additional mouthwatering recipes you'll fall in love with:
- Sheet Pan Salmon with Asparagus and Potatoes
- Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil
- Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa
- Salmon in Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
- Baked Thai Pineapple Salmon in Foil
Did you try this Best Easy Healthy Baked Salmon recipe? If so, please rate it below! Your feedback is greatly appreciated.
