If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy dinner that won’t keep you in the kitchen for hours, then cooked salmon is your answer! This recipe is a total lifesaver—it’s so simple yet packed with flavor and nutrients. Salmon is not only rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health, but it also cooks up in a flash! I’m talking about a mere 25 minutes from start to finish! Trust me, once you try this quick and easy cooked salmon dish, it’ll become a staple in your weeknight rotation. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that looks as good as it tastes? So, let’s dive into this quick recipe that’s sure to impress your taste buds and keep you feeling great!
Ingredients List
- 2 fresh salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
- Fresh dill, finely chopped for garnish
How to Prepare Cooked Salmon
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is super important because it ensures that your salmon cooks evenly and gets that lovely flaky texture we all crave. So, while that oven is heating up, you can get everything else ready!
Prepare the Salmon
Now, let’s get to the star of the show! Grab your two fresh salmon fillets and place them skin-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. This makes cleanup a breeze! Drizzle those fillets with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil—don’t skimp on this, it adds so much flavor! Then, sprinkle with salt and freshly ground pepper to your liking. I like to be generous with the seasoning because it really brings out the salmon’s natural flavor.
Add Lemon Slices
Next up, take your thinly sliced lemon and lay those beautiful slices right on top of the salmon. This adds a zesty brightness to your dish that’s just irresistible! Plus, as the salmon bakes, the lemon infuses its juicy goodness into the fish—seriously, it’s a game-changer!
Baking Time
Time to pop that baking sheet into the oven! Bake your salmon for about 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as cooking times can vary based on the thickness of your fillets. You’ll know it’s done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is no longer translucent in the center. If you’re unsure, just cut into the thickest part and check—better safe than sorry!
Garnishing and Serving
Once your salmon is perfectly cooked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a minute. Now comes the fun part—garnishing! Sprinkle some finely chopped fresh dill on top for a pop of color and flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or fluffy rice, making it a complete meal. Trust me, your family and friends will be raving about this delicious cooked salmon!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to cooked salmon, not only is it a delight for your taste buds, but it’s also a powerhouse of nutrition! Here’s a quick look at the typical nutritional values for one salmon fillet:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Cholesterol: 100mg
These values can vary slightly based on the size of your fillet and how it’s prepared, but this gives you a solid estimate. So, not only will you enjoy a delicious meal, but you’ll also be fueling your body with healthy fats and protein. How great is that?
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your cooked salmon is absolutely perfect every time! Here are my top tips to help you achieve salmon success:
- Freshness is Key: Always choose the freshest salmon you can find. Look for bright, vibrant color, and a firm texture. If it smells fishy, it’s probably not the best choice!
- Adjust Cooking Time: The thickness of your salmon fillets matters! Thicker pieces will need a bit more time, while thinner ones will cook faster. As a general rule, aim for about 4 to 6 minutes of baking time per half-inch of thickness.
- Don’t Overcook: Salmon can go from perfectly flaky to dry in a flash! Keep an eye on it, and remember that it will continue cooking a little after you take it out of the oven, so don’t be afraid to pull it out when it’s just shy of being done.
- Experiment with Flavors: While lemon and dill are classic, don’t hesitate to mix things up! Try adding garlic, capers, or even a splash of white wine for an extra flavor kick. Marinades work wonders too!
- Let It Rest: After baking, let your salmon sit for a minute before serving. This helps retain moisture and gives you a juicier bite. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be serving up perfectly cooked salmon that will impress everyone at your table. Enjoy the process and happy cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a delicious dinner even on your busiest nights!
- Healthy Choice: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and high in protein, cooked salmon is a nutritious option that supports heart health.
- Flavorful and Fresh: The combination of lemon and dill brings a bright, zesty flavor that enhances the natural taste of the salmon.
- Simple Ingredients: You only need a few fresh ingredients, making this dish both accessible and easy to prepare.
- Versatile Pairings: Cooked salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from veggies to grains, allowing you to customize your meal.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and garnishes make this dish not only tasty but also visually stunning for your dinner table.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can place it in the fridge overnight or run it under cold water for a quicker thaw. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.
How do I know when my salmon is cooked through?
The best way to check is by using a fork to gently flake the thickest part of the salmon. If it flakes easily and is no longer translucent, it’s ready to enjoy! You can also use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
What if I don’t have fresh dill?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh dill on hand, you can substitute it with dried dill, or even try other fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Each will give a different twist to your cooked salmon, and it’s all delicious!
Can I marinate the salmon before cooking?
Definitely! Marinating your salmon can add an extra layer of flavor. Just be careful not to marinate for too long—30 minutes to an hour is perfect. Over-marinating can break down the fish too much and make it mushy.
What sides should I serve with cooked salmon?
This dish is incredibly versatile! I love serving it with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You could also pair it with roasted potatoes for a heartier meal. The options are endless, so feel free to get creative!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got some leftovers? No problem! Storing your cooked salmon properly is key to keeping it fresh and delicious for your next meal. Just follow these simple steps:
- Storing: Allow the cooked salmon to cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you know you won’t eat it within that time frame, consider freezing it!
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze your cooked salmon. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. It’ll stay good for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Now, when it comes to reheating, here’s how to do it without losing that fabulous texture:
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This is my favorite method because it helps maintain that flaky goodness!
- Microwave Method: If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Just place the salmon on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until it’s warmed to your liking. Be careful not to overdo it, or you’ll end up with rubbery salmon!
With these storage and reheating tips in your back pocket, you can enjoy your cooked salmon again without sacrificing any flavor. Happy eating!
Drucken
Cooked Salmon: 5 Secrets for a Perfectly Flaky Dish
- Gesamtzeit: 25 minutes
- Ertrag: 2 servings 1x
- Ernährung: Low Fat
Beschreibung
A simple and healthy dish featuring cooked salmon.
Zutaten
- 2 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish
Anweisungen
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil over the fish.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Top with lemon slices.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh dill before serving.
Notes
- Ensure salmon is fresh.
- Serve with vegetables or rice for a complete meal.
- Adjust cooking time based on thickness of fillets.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Kochen Zeit: 15 minutes
- Kategorie: Main Course
- Methode: Baking
- Küche: American
Ernährung
- Portionsgröße: 1 fillet
- Kalorien: 350
- Zucker: 0g
- Natrium: 75mg
- Fett: 20g
- Gesättigte Fettsäuren: 3g
- Ungesättigte Fette: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Kohlenhydrate: 0g
- Faser: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterin: 100mg
Keywords: cooked salmon
