Are you ready to dive into the world of fish recipes? Today, I have a special treat for you – a super simple and incredibly delicious seafood near me inspired Baked Salmon Recipe! Whether you're a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned chef looking for a quick and tasty meal, this baked salmon recipe is sure to impress. So, let's roll up our sleeves, preheat that oven, and get baking!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon slices for garnish
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Start with this baked salmon recipe by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Place salmon fillets on the baking sheet, skin-side down. Moreover, make sure to space them out evenly to ensure even cooking.
3. In a small bowl, combine and mix the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper together.
4. Drizzle the olive oil mixture over the salmon fillets and make sure to coat them thoroughly. You may use a spoon or your fingers to spread the mixture evenly over the surface of the salmon.
5. Once the salmon fillets are coated with the olive oil mixture, place a few lemon slices on top of each fillet for added flavor and presentation.
6. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes or until it is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time depends on the thickness of your salmon fillets, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. On the other hand, if you prefer a crispier skin on your salmon then you may broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
7. Once the salmon is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven. Also, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
8. Serve this delicious baked salmon recipe hot with your favorite side dishes. Such as steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a crisp green salad. Enjoy!

Accompaniments and Side Dish Ideas

Pairing salmon with delicious side dishes can elevate your meal to the next level. Here are some tasty accompaniments and side dish ideas to serve alongside baked salmon recipe:

1. Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs.
2. Quinoa Salad: Toss cooked quinoa with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a light and refreshing side dish.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with roasted garlic and a splash of milk or cream make a comforting and satisfying accompaniment to salmon.
4. Green Salad: Serve a crisp green salad with mixed greens, sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette dressing for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the salmon.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob brushed with garlic butter and sprinkled with parmesan cheese is a delicious and seasonal side dish that pairs perfectly with salmon.

Flavor Variations

One of the great things about this baked salmon recipe is its ability to pair well with a variety of flavors. Here are a handful:

1. Lemon Herb Salmon: Add fresh lemon zest, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of your favorite herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme for a bright and refreshing flavor.
2. Asian-Inspired Salmon: Marinate salmon in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and honey for a sweet and savory twist with an Asian flair.
3. Spicy Cajun Salmon: Rub salmon fillets with a homemade Cajun seasoning blend made with paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for a bold and spicy flavor.
4. Maple Dijon Glazed Salmon: Combine maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a splash of balsamic vinegar to create a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the salmon when baked.
5. Mediterranean Salmon: Top salmon with a mixture of chopped tomatoes, olives, capers, and fresh herbs like basil and oregano for a taste of the Mediterranean.

Storage and Leftover Ideas

Don't let leftover salmon go to waste! If you have leftover salmon, here are some storage tips and creative ways to enjoy it:

1. Refrigerate Properly: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Make sure to consume it within this time frame for the best quality and freshness.
2. Freeze for Later: If you won't be able to eat leftover salmon within a few days, consider freezing it. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
3. Make Salmon Salad: Flake leftover salmon and toss it with mayonnaise, chopped celery, red onion, and dill for a quick and easy salmon salad. Enjoy it as is, as a sandwich filling, or over a bed of veggies.
4. Add to Pasta: Incorporate flaked salmon into pasta dishes like creamy Alfredo, lemon garlic linguine, or pesto pasta for a protein-packed meal with plenty of flavor.
5. Make Salmon Patties: Combine flaked salmon with breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings to make delicious salmon patties. Pan-fry them until golden brown and serve with a side of tartar sauce or aioli.

Conclusion

And there you have it – a foolproof baked salmon recipe that's perfect for any occasion! Whether you're cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a dinner party, this baked salmon recipe is sure to impress. So, next time you're craving something delicious and nutritious, give this baked salmon recipe a try and let your taste buds thank you later!