This easy oven-roasted salmon is packed with flavor and is super simple to make. Just season the fish, pop it in the oven, and enjoy its flaky goodness in no time!
You won’t believe how tasty this is! I love to serve it with a side of veggies or rice. It’s like a hug on a plate. Plus, who doesn’t love a quick meal that’s healthy too? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star of this dish. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, consider using frozen salmon, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
Olive oil: This adds flavor and helps keep the salmon moist. If you want something lighter, avocado oil works great too and has a high smoke point.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a strong flavor. If you’re short on fresh, jarred garlic or garlic powder can work in a pinch, but fresh is always better if you can.
Lemon: For a fresh, zesty taste, lemon is perfect. You can substitute with lime or even orange if you want to try something different!
Herbs: I love using fresh herbs, but if you don’t have any, dried herbs like oregano or Italian seasoning are just fine.
How Do I Get Perfectly Roasted Salmon?
Roasting salmon is so easy, but making sure it’s cooked just right is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. This provides a nice, even heat for cooking the salmon.
- Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Do not overcrowd the pan! Allow space around the salmon for even roasting.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time! Salmon usually takes 12-15 minutes. It’s done when it flakes easily with a fork.
- Let it rest a couple of minutes after taking it out; this helps keep it juicy.
Feel free to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets for best results. Enjoy your perfectly roasted salmon!
Easy Oven Roasted Salmon Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced, plus extra for serving
- Fresh chopped parsley or dill for garnish
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional)
- 12 small baby potatoes, halved (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious oven-roasted salmon takes about 10 minutes to prepare and only 12-15 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 25-30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s also fancy enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your salmon will cook evenly throughout.
2. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Lightly grease a baking sheet with a bit of olive oil or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
3. Make the Olive Oil Mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and dried oregano (or Italian seasoning). This mixture will add wonderful flavor to the salmon.
4. Arrange the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet, skin side down. It’s important to give them a little space to ensure even cooking.
5. Season the Salmon:
Using a brush or a spoon, evenly coat the salmon fillets with the olive oil mixture you prepared. Make sure they’re well covered for maximum flavor!
6. Add Lemon Slices:
Place a thin slice of lemon on top of each fillet. The lemon will infuse the salmon with a fresh, zesty flavor while it cooks.
7. Add Optional Veggies:
If you choose to use cherry tomatoes and halved baby potatoes, scatter them around the salmon on the baking sheet. Drizzle them lightly with a bit of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
8. Roast in the Oven:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 12-15 minutes. The salmon is done when it easily flakes with a fork, and the potatoes are tender.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Garnish the salmon with freshly chopped parsley or dill for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately with additional lemon wedges on the side for extra zest!
10. Enjoy!
Dig into your beautifully roasted salmon, and enjoy the delicious blend of flavors. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that you can feel good about!
FAQ: Easy Oven Roasted Salmon
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just remember to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way is to leave it in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing.
What Should I Serve with Oven Roasted Salmon?
This delicious salmon pairs well with a variety of sides! Consider serving it over rice or quinoa, alongside roasted vegetables, or with a fresh salad. The optional cherry tomatoes and baby potatoes in the recipe also make great accompaniments!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or warm it gently in a skillet on low heat. Be careful not to overcook it during reheating!
Can I Bake Salmon at a Different Temperature?
Yes, you can! If you’d like to bake your salmon at a lower temperature, just extend the cooking time. For example, baking at 350°F (175°C) will take about 20-25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Just make sure it flakes easily when done.
