Description
This Baked Salmon recipe combines fresh herbs, garlic, apple cider vinegar, and lemon to create a flavorful, moist, and flaky salmon dish. Quick and easy to prepare, it is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, delivering a wholesome and vibrant meal rich in omega-3s and essential nutrients.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 fresh skin-on salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Variations Ingredients
- Drizzle of sriracha sauce (natural) for spicy twist
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (natural) and a sprinkle of cinnamon for maple glazed version
- ½ cup panko crumbs mixed with herbs and 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent for herb-crusted crunch topping
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger and 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) for Asian-inspired flavor
- Thinly sliced bell peppers and zucchini for vegetable-infused bake
Instructions
- Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.
- Make the Herb Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, dill, thyme, lemon zest, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar (natural), olive oil, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until well combined to create a vibrant marinade that will soak deeply into the salmon.
- Coat the Salmon Fillets: Place salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared tray. Brush or spoon the herb marinade generously over each piece, making sure to cover all surfaces for even flavor.
- Bake the Salmon: Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The salmon should flake easily with a fork but remain juicy and tender inside.
- Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is perfectly moist and flavorful before serving.
Notes
- Choose fresh salmon with firm flesh and a mild scent for best results.
- Do not overcook; the salmon should flake easily yet remain moist.
- Skin-on fillets lock in moisture and provide a crispy texture if desired.
- Marinate briefly for 15-20 minutes; too long can alter texture.
- Allow salmon to rest before serving to keep it juicy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (6 oz)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: baked salmon, easy salmon recipe, healthy dinner, omega-3 rich, quick dinner, herb salmon, gluten free seafood