Description
Succulent Baked Salmon brings Mediterranean coastal flavors directly to kitchen tables with its herb-infused elegance. Crisp herbal notes and delicate fish textures create a simple yet sophisticated meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces/170 grams each)
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
Sweet and Tangy Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Optional: Lemon slices for serving
Instructions
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining with parchment paper or aluminum foil, then preheat the oven to a precise 400F (200C) for optimal salmon cooking.
- Arrange salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking surface, ensuring even placement.
- Create a luxurious glaze by whisking together melted butter, honey, finely minced garlic, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a small mixing bowl.
- Generously coat each salmon fillet with the prepared glaze, ensuring complete and even coverage to maximize flavor absorption.
- Carefully slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast for 12-15 minutes, monitoring until the fish easily flakes with a fork and reaches a safe internal temperature of 145F (63C).
- For an enhanced caramelized exterior, activate the broiler and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Extract the salmon from the oven, embellish with freshly chopped parsley and optional lemon slices, then serve immediately while piping hot and perfectly glazed.
Notes
- Always choose fresh, high-quality salmon with a vibrant color and firm texture for the best results.
- Pat the salmon dry with paper towels before applying the glaze to help it adhere better and create a crispier exterior.
- Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of your salmon fillets, checking for doneness by gently flaking with a fork.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of Dijon mustard and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Experiment with different herbs like dill or thyme in the glaze for varied flavor profiles.
- If you prefer a lighter option, replace butter with olive oil or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 384 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 1020 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg