Indulge in a delicious and quick salmon recipe perfect for busy weeknights. This easy herb garlic salmon is ready in just 20 minutes. It’s a great choice for a quick salmon recipe or a 20-minute dinner. The mix of garlic, fresh herbs, and lemon will excite your taste buds and fill your hunger for a healthy meal.
This recipe uses a 12 oz (350g) salmon fillet, cut into two pieces. It’s easy to make. You’ll need unsalted butter, minced garlic, Italian parsley, salt, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, and black pepper. Baking the salmon at 400°F (207°C) for 12 minutes makes it moist and flavorful.
This garlic herb salmon is not only tasty but also nutritious. It has 236 kcal, 23g of protein, and 15g of fat per serving. Impress your family and friends with this delicious quick salmon recipe that’s ready in just 20 minutes!
Key Takeaways
- Delectable and quick salmon recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights
- Flavorful blend of garlic, fresh herbs, and lemon for a satisfying meal
- Bakes in just 12 minutes at 400°F (207°C) for a perfectly cooked, moist, and flavorful salmon
- Nutritious option with 236 kcal, 23g of protein, and 15g of fat per serving
- Ready in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick and easy dinner
Why This Garlic Herb Salmon Is Perfect for Quick Dinners
This garlic herb salmon recipe is a top pick for quick dinners. It’s not just tasty but also healthy and saves time, perfect for busy weeknights.
Health Benefits of Salmon
Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, great for your heart and brain. This recipe uses a 1.5 to 1.75 pound salmon fillet. It’s a big serving of protein and vitamins and minerals.
Time-Saving Benefits
This recipe is quick, ready in 20 to 27 minutes. The oven is set to 375°F. Salmon bakes for 10 minutes, then broils for 5 to 10 minutes for a crispy finish.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
Busy weeknights need meals that are quick, satisfying, and healthy. This garlic herb salmon fits the bill. It’s a great choice for a quick and easy salmon dinner the whole family will love.
Looking for a healthy fish recipe for a weeknight dinner? Or just want a simple yet delicious meal? This garlic herb salmon is a must-try for your kitchen.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Herb Garlic Salmon
Making a delicious herb garlic salmon dish starts with the right ingredients. A few key elements come together for a flavorful meal in just 20 minutes. Let’s look at what you need to make this salmon fillet recipe stand out.
First, you’ll need a fresh salmon fillet. Choose a 2-pound cut with a vibrant pink color and firm texture. This ensures your salmon cooks well and stays juicy.
To give the salmon its signature taste, you’ll need fresh herbs like Italian parsley. Chop a generous handful of the leaves finely. Also, mince 3-4 cloves of fresh garlic for a fragrant base.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Salmon fillet | 2 lbs |
| Fresh Italian parsley, chopped | 1 handful |
| Fresh garlic, minced | 3-4 cloves |
| Unsalted butter, melted | 3 tbsp |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/4 tsp |
| Cayenne pepper (optional) | 1/8 tsp |
To mix the flavors, use 3 tablespoons of melted butter. Add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice for brightness. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a restaurant-quality herb garlic salmon dish. It’s sure to impress your taste buds.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make the perfect herb garlic salmon, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. You’ll need a baking sheet covered with parchment paper or foil. Also, a digital food thermometer and a thin, sturdy spatula or fish turner for serving.
Required Baking Tools
- Rimmed baking sheet or sheet pan
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil to line the baking sheet
- Thin, wide spatula or fish turner for serving the salmon fillets
Temperature Monitoring Equipment
A probe-type digital food thermometer is a must for this recipe. It lets you keep an eye on the salmon’s internal temperature. This ensures it’s cooked just right, without overcooking.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Baking sheet | Provides a sturdy surface for baking the salmon fillets |
| Parchment paper | Prevents the salmon from sticking to the baking sheet and makes for easy cleanup |
| Digital food thermometer | Ensures the salmon is cooked to the optimal internal temperature |
| Spatula | Helps transfer the delicate salmon fillets from the baking sheet to the serving plate |
With these tools, you’re ready to make a delicious herb garlic salmon dish. It will be perfectly cooked.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Getting ready for oven-baked salmon with garlic herb sauce is easy. First, heat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Then, mix melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and seasonings in a bowl. Stir until everything is well mixed.
After that, lay out the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Make sure they’re spread out and pat them dry. This helps the sauce stick better. Then, spoon the garlic herb sauce over the salmon, covering each fillet evenly.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and your choice of seasonings to make the garlic herb sauce.
- Arrange the salmon fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they are evenly spaced.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to help the sauce adhere better.
- Generously spoon the garlic herb sauce over the top of the salmon, ensuring each fillet is coated evenly.
Now, put the baking sheet in the oven. Bake the salmon for 10-12 minutes, until it’s 145°F (63°C inside. For a crispy top, broil for 1-2 minutes. Watch it closely to avoid burning.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Salmon fillets | 6 (about 1.5 lbs) |
| Unsalted butter, melted | 3 tbsp |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 2 tbsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Follow these steps for delicious oven-baked salmon with garlic herb sauce in 20 minutes. It’s a quick and tasty dinner for any weeknight.
Perfect Temperature and Cooking Time Guide
Getting your salmon just right is simpler than you think. Just keep an eye on the internal temperature and cooking time. For the best taste, bake your salmon fillets at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.
How to Check for Doneness
The salmon internal temperature should hit 145°F (63°C) with a food thermometer. When it’s cooked, it will flake with a fork and look opaque. Thicker fillets might need a bit more time in the oven.
Temperature Guidelines
- Medium-rare: 125°F (52°C)
- Medium: 135°F (57°C)
- Medium-well: 140°F (60°C)
- Well-done: 145°F (63°C)
The USDA says to cook flaky salmon to 145°F (63°C). This makes sure it’s cooked without drying out.
| Salmon Thickness | Baking Time at 400°F (200°C) |
|---|---|
| 1-inch thick | 12-15 minutes |
| 1.5-inch thick | 15-20 minutes |
| 2-inch thick | 18-22 minutes |
The key is to hit the internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for flaky salmon.
Herb Garlic Salmon Seasoning Tips
Make your easy herb garlic salmon recipe even better with these seasoning tips. Try different fresh herbs to find unique flavors that go well with salmon. You can mix classic herbs like rosemary and dill with bold flavors like Old Bay seasoning.
For the best taste, marinate the salmon in a mix of melted butter, lemon juice, honey, and garlic for 2-4 hours in the fridge. This lets the salmon soak up the flavors, making each bite full of taste. But be careful not to marinate too long, as citrus can make the fish mushy.
- Try different herb combinations like rosemary, dill, or Old Bay seasoning for a unique twist on the classic garlic herb salmon.
- For a quick marinade, mix melted butter, lemon juice, honey, and minced garlic in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Marinate the salmon for 2-4 hours in the refrigerator.
- Avoid over-marinating, as citrus acids can start to cook the fish, making it mushy.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Salmon Fillet | 1.5 to 1.75 pounds, skin-on |
| Lemon | 1 lemon, sliced into thin rounds |
| Unsalted Butter | 1/2 cup, melted |
| Lemon Juice | 3 tablespoons |
| Honey | 2 to 3 tablespoons |
| Garlic | 5 cloves, finely pressed or minced |
| Kosher Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground |
| Parsley | 2 teaspoons, finely chopped (for garnish) |
By trying out different herbs and marinades, you can make a garlic herb salmon dish that’s truly special. It will impress everyone with its savory, sweet, and tangy flavors in every bite!
Serving Suggestions and Presentation
When serving your salmon plating, focus on the details. Use a fish turner or thin spatula to place the salmon on plates. Add a fresh lemon wedge for a burst of citrus flavor.
Plating Techniques
For a fancy meal presentation, arrange the salmon on plates with care. Place the salmon at an angle, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with herbs. You can also fan out the fillets for a beautiful look.
Side Dish Recommendations
The right side dishes can enhance the salmon’s flavor and texture. Try pairing it with roasted veggies like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. A simple salad with light vinaigrette is also great. For something more filling, serve with white rice or quinoa.
By focusing on presentation and side dishes, you can make a stunning and tasty meal presentation. It will highlight the beauty and flavors of your baked salmon plating.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Enjoying herb garlic salmon doesn’t have to end after one meal. You can keep those flavors alive for days. Whether you have leftover salmon or are planning ahead, these tips will help. They ensure your salmon stays fresh and tasty.
Refrigerating Leftover Salmon
To store leftover salmon, put it in an airtight container and chill it. The coldest part of the fridge is ideal. It keeps the fish fresh for a longer time. Your leftover salmon can last 1-2 days in the fridge.
Freezing Salmon for Later
For longer storage, freeze your leftover salmon. Wrap the fillets in plastic wrap or foil, then in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen salmon stays good for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Salmon
When reheating your salmon, use gentle heat. This prevents the fish from drying out. The oven or microwave are good choices. For the oven, preheat to 350°F and bake for 10-15 minutes. For the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your herb garlic salmon for days. It will taste as fresh as when it was first cooked.
“Properly stored, your leftover salmon can last 1-2 days in the fridge.”
Recipe Variations and Flavor Combinations
The classic garlic herb salmon recipe is loved by many. But, there’s no limit to the flavors you can try. Salmon is so versatile, you can mix and match different seasonings and marinades. Whether you want an Asian twist or a Mediterranean flavor, the options are endless.
Asian-Inspired Version
For an Asian twist, marinate the salmon in soy sauce, fresh ginger, and toasted sesame oil. This mix gives the salmon a salty-sweet, umami flavor. Top it with scallions and sesame seeds for a dish that looks as good as it tastes.
Mediterranean Style
For a Mediterranean flavor, season the salmon with lemon juice, capers, rosemary, and garlic. The capers and rosemary add a bright, earthy taste. It’s like a trip to the Mediterranean coast.
Other great options include a Korean BBQ marinade with gochujang, honey, and rice vinegar. Or, try a smoky, zesty flavor with paprika and lemon juice. The secret to finding your favorite flavor is to keep trying new herbs, spices, and marinades.
| Flavor Variation | Key Ingredients | Serving Suggestions |
|---|---|---|
| Asian-Inspired | Soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil | Serve over steamed rice, garnished with scallions and toasted sesame seeds |
| Mediterranean Style | Lemon juice, capers, rosemary, garlic | Pair with roasted vegetables and a side of quinoa or couscous |
| Korean BBQ | Gochujang, honey, rice vinegar | Serve with stir-fried vegetables and kimchi |
| Paprika and Lemon | Paprika, lemon juice | Enjoy with a fresh salad and roasted potatoes |
Whether you choose an Asian, Mediterranean, or another flavor, let the salmon’s natural taste shine. Try different salmon flavor variations and international salmon recipes to find your new favorite dish.
Conclusion
This Herb Garlic easy salmon recipe is a quick, tasty, and healthy meal. It’s great for quick dinner ideas. Its simple steps and amazing taste make it a top choice for adding healthy fish dish to your meals.
This recipe is flexible, fitting both weeknight dinners and special events. You can stick to the classic herb and garlic or try new flavors like Asian or Mediterranean. Either way, it promises a delicious salmon dish.
Follow the guide to cook salmon perfectly. You’ll get a tender inside and a crispy outside. Serve it with your favorite sides for a meal everyone will love.