Baked Salmon is a dish that never fails to impress, offering a perfect blend of flavor and nutrition. This recipe features flaky salmon topped with a zesty dill sauce and crunchy pickled cucumber, making every bite a culinary delight. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or looking for a quick meal prep option, understanding how to bake salmon perfectly is essential. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Salmon

This baked salmon recipe is a weeknight hero for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a simple baked salmon dish that fits into any busy schedule. Second, this oven-baked salmon is not only delicious but also healthy; packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, it’s a great option for anyone looking to eat healthily. The combination of zesty dill and pickled cucumber elevates the dish, making it not just a meal but a flavorful experience. Plus, the recipe includes ingredients you likely already have at home, so you won’t have to make an extra trip to the grocery store. Enjoy it with sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Lastly, it’s a versatile dish that can be adapted with various herbs and spices, ensuring you can keep it exciting.

Ingredients for Baked Salmon

Gather these items:

1 kg side Scottish salmon
Olive oil
1 unwaxed lemon, zest
1 clementine, scrubbed, zest
1 tbsp sea salt flakes
½ tsp cracked black pepper
2 tsp juniper berries
½ 20g pack dill
150 ml soured cream
½ tsp English mustard
½ 20g pack dill, leaves chopped
½ tsp sea salt flakes
½ lemon juice
1 midi cucumber
1 tsp table salt
60 ml white wine vinegar
30 g caster sugar
1 tsp caraway seeds

How to Make Baked Salmon Step-by-Step

Step 1: Finely slice the cucumber into thin rounds and layer them in a large jar, sprinkling each layer with salt. Cover with baking parchment, weigh down, and let sit for 20 minutes.
Step 2: In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, 60 ml water, sugar, and caraway seeds. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Allow to cool to room temperature.
Step 3: Pour off any liquid from the cucumber and transfer it to a colander. Squeeze out excess moisture. Return the cucumber to the jar, pour the pickling liquid over, seal, and chill for at least 1 hour.
Step 4: Preheat your oven to 200ºC (gas mark 6). Line a baking tray with baking parchment or foil, then drizzle with olive oil. Place the salmon skin-side down, ensuring to remove any bones.
Step 5: In a small ramekin, combine lemon and clementine zests with salt and black pepper. Finely chop the juniper berries and dill leaves, adding them to the mix. Rub this blend onto the salmon and drizzle with olive oil. Roast for 20-25 minutes until it flakes easily with a knife.
Step 6: While the salmon bakes, mix all the dill sauce ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.
Step 7: Plate the salmon hot or cold, drizzled with the dill sauce, accompanied by slices of pickled cucumber.

Pro Tips for the Best Baked Salmon

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t overcook; check for flakiness at 20 minutes.
Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking for juiciness.
Experiment with different herbs for varied flavors.

Best Ways to Serve Baked Salmon

This delicious baked salmon can be served in various ways. Pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a healthy dinner. You can also serve it with quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome meal prep option. Additionally, consider adding a side of garlic butter for an extra flavor boost.

How to Store and Reheat Baked Salmon

To store leftovers, place the baked salmon in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last up to 3 days. When reheating, use a microwave or an oven at low heat to maintain moisture. This is perfect for baked salmon for meal prep; simply reheat and enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Salmon

What’s the secret to perfect Baked Salmon?

The secret lies in not overcooking the fish. Bake it at 200ºC for about 20-25 minutes until it flakes easily with a fork. This ensures your salmon fillet baked is moist and flavorful.

Can I make Baked Salmon ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the salmon in advance and store it in the fridge. Just make sure to reheat gently to avoid drying it out.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked Salmon?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your oven is preheated properly and don’t skip the seasoning. Using fresh ingredients will elevate your oven-baked salmon experience.

Variations of Baked Salmon You Can Try

There are many variations of baked salmon to explore. You could try baked salmon with lemon for a zesty twist, or go for baked salmon with garlic and butter for a rich flavor. For a healthy option, consider a healthy baked salmon recipe with herbs and spices, or incorporate vegetables for a one-pan meal.

Baked Salmon: 5 Secrets to Perfectly Flaky Fish - Baked Salmon - additional detail

For more tips on cooking fish, check out this guide. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, visit this article. You can also learn about the health benefits of salmon at this resource.