Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite way to enjoy dinner: cooked salmon! It’s such a simple yet delicious dish that bursts with flavor and is packed with nutrients. I often whip it up after a long day, and it never disappoints. Not only is it rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are fantastic for heart health, but it also gives you a great protein boost—hello, muscle fuel! I remember the first time I made it; I was nervous about overcooking it. But with a little practice, I’ve nailed that perfect flaky texture. Trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be serving this up for family dinners and impressing your friends in no time!
Ingredients List
- 4 salmon fillets: Look for fresh, skin-on or skinless fillets. Each fillet should be about 6 ounces for perfect portioning.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Extra virgin is my go-to for that rich flavor; it really brings the dish together.
- 1 lemon, juiced: Fresh lemon juice is key! It adds brightness and balances the richness of the salmon.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: I love the punch garlic gives, but feel free to adjust to your taste—more for a kick, less for subtlety!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning goes a long way—don’t be shy, sprinkle a generous amount for flavor!
- Fresh dill for garnish: This isn’t just for looks! The fresh herb adds a lovely aroma and flavor that complements the salmon beautifully.
How to Prepare Cooked Salmon
- First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial to get that beautiful sear on your salmon!
- While the oven is heating up, grab a bowl and mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This mixture is what will bring your salmon to life!
- Next, take your salmon fillets and place them skin-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Trust me, it makes life so much easier!
- Now, brush that delicious olive oil mixture generously over each fillet. Make sure every inch is coated; it helps keep the salmon moist and flavorful while cooking.
- Pop the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center. Remember, it’s better to undercook slightly than to overdo it!
- Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for a minute before garnishing with fresh dill. This little touch really elevates your dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Rich, savory flavor that’s sure to impress family and friends.
- Packed with nutrients, including heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
- Versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides.
- Low in fat but high in protein, making it a healthy choice.
Tips for Success
To make sure your cooked salmon turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my top tips! First, always choose salmon fillets that are uniform in thickness; this helps them cook evenly. If your fillets vary in size, adjust the cooking time accordingly—thicker ones will need a bit longer, while thinner ones will cook faster. Also, don’t skimp on seasoning; a good sprinkle of salt and pepper really enhances the flavor. If you want to jazz it up, try adding some herbs or spices like paprika or a dash of cayenne for a kick!
Presentation matters too! Serve your salmon on a colorful plate with a sprinkle of fresh dill and a wedge of lemon on the side for that wow factor. It’s all about making it look as delicious as it tastes!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers! Each serving of cooked salmon (that’s one fillet) is approximately 250 calories. It’s got a healthy dose of 14 grams of fat, with just 2 grams of saturated fat, making it a heart-friendly choice. You’ll also get about 30 grams of protein, which is fantastic for keeping you full and satisfied. Plus, it has zero carbs and sugar, so it fits beautifully into low-carb diets. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes you use. But one thing’s for sure—this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious!
FAQ Section
How do I know when my cooked salmon is done? A good rule of thumb is to check if it flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque in the center. If it still seems a bit translucent, give it a minute or two more in the oven!
Can I use frozen salmon? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Cooking from frozen will change the cooking time, so keep an eye on it!
What can I serve with cooked salmon? Cooked salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can mix and match according to your cravings!
Can I cook salmon on the stovetop instead? Yes! You can pan-sear salmon in a skillet over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side. Just be sure to monitor it closely to avoid overcooking.
Is cooked salmon safe to eat if it’s slightly undercooked? While many people enjoy salmon medium-rare, it’s best to cook it thoroughly for food safety, especially for pregnant women or those with compromised immune systems.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving cooked salmon, the possibilities are endless! I love pairing it with a vibrant quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach makes a fantastic side, adding a pop of color and nutrients. If you’re in the mood for something hearty, creamy mashed potatoes or wild rice are perfect for soaking up those delicious flavors. And don’t forget a wedge of lemon on the side—just a squeeze really brightens everything up!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a delicious batch of cooked salmon, and you’ve got some leftovers—great choice! To store them, let the salmon cool to room temperature, then wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cooked salmon! Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags, and it’ll be good for up to 2 months.
When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, the best way to reheat salmon is gently. You can pop it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, just until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just cover it with a damp paper towel and heat in short intervals, checking to make sure it doesn’t dry out. Enjoy that flaky goodness all over again!
For more information on the health benefits of salmon, check out this Healthline article.
If you’re interested in exploring more delicious recipes, visit our fish recipes section for inspiration!
For tips on cooking techniques, you can refer to this Serious Eats guide.
Print
Cooked Salmon Recipe: 5 Steps to Irresistible Flavor
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Cooked salmon is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet.
- Brush the mixture over the salmon fillets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh dill before serving.
Notes
- Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the salmon.
- Serve with vegetables or rice for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: cooked salmon
