Quick Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill: Your New Go-To Dinner
Hey there! Are you looking for a dinner that’s super easy, healthy, and tastes amazing? I’ve got just the thing for you. This baked salmon recipe is so simple, you’ll be making it all the time. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, but still want something delicious and good for you. Plus, it looks fancy enough to serve when guests come over!
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to grab from the store:
* 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 lemon, juiced
* 1 teaspoon dried dill (or 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped)
* Salt, to taste
* Black pepper, to taste
* Optional: Lemon slices for topping
Step By Step Making
Let’s get cooking! It’s really straightforward.
1. First things first, preheat your oven. Set it to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is warming up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Now, get your salmon fillets ready. Rinse them under cool water and pat them completely dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and gives you a nicer texture.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they have a little space between them so they cook evenly.
4. Drizzle the olive oil all over the salmon fillets. Then, squeeze the fresh lemon juice over each one.
5. It’s time for seasoning! Sprinkle salt and black pepper over the salmon to your liking. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it really brings out the flavor.
6. Next, sprinkle the dill evenly over the top of each salmon fillet. If you’re using fresh dill, make sure it’s finely chopped.
7. If you like, you can place a thin slice or two of lemon on top of each salmon fillet. This adds a nice touch and extra lemon flavor as it bakes.
8. Now, pop that baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for about 12 to 15 minutes. The cooking time can change a bit depending on how thick your salmon fillets are. You’ll know it’s done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the color has turned opaque.
9. Once it’s cooked, carefully take the baking sheet out of the oven. Let the salmon rest for just a couple of minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy.
10. Serve it up hot and enjoy your delicious, healthy meal! This salmon is great on its own or served with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. If you’re looking for more easy dinner ideas, check out this Hearty Beef and Potato Skillet Dinner.
Nutritional Value
A typical serving of baked salmon like this (around a 6-ounce fillet) is packed with good stuff. While exact numbers can vary a bit based on the specific cut of salmon and exact amounts of ingredients, here’s a general idea:
* Protein: Around 35 grams. That’s a great amount to help you feel full and build muscle.
* Calories: Roughly 295 calories. It’s a good balance for a healthy meal.
* Carbohydrates: About 1 gram. This recipe is very low in carbs.
Health Benefits
Eating salmon is seriously good for you. It’s loaded with things that help your body work better. Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are super important for your health. These fatty acids are known to help reduce inflammation in your body. They’re also great for your heart, helping to keep it healthy and strong.
Plus, salmon is packed with high-quality protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, and it helps you feel satisfied after eating. Your brain will thank you too, as omega-3s can boost brain function and improve memory. Some studies even suggest that eating salmon can help improve mood and support mental health. It’s like a delicious superfood that you can enjoy any night of the week!
Disclaimer: This recipe information is provided by pezni for general informational purposes only.