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Perfectly Rested Baked Salmon

This baked salmon recipe emphasizes the importance of resting the fish after cooking to enhance moisture and flavor. The dish features skin-on salmon fillets seasoned with lemon and herbs, baked until tender and flaky, with a final resting period that ensures maximum juiciness and a beautiful appearance. The result is a moist, tender fillet with crispy skin and vibrant herbaceous notes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Western
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets salmon fillets preferably skin-on, bright pink and firm
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil for coating and crisping the skin
  • 1 lemon lemon for fresh juice
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill and parsley or your choice of herbs
  • to taste salt and pepper sea salt flakes preferred
  • 1 clove garlic optional, minced

Equipment

  • Baking dish or sheet
  • Parchment paper or foil
  • Sharp Knife
  • Meat thermometer
  • Lemon squeezer
  • Basting brush or spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispy skin.
  3. Place the fillets skin-side down in the prepared baking dish. Brush each fillet lightly with olive oil, focusing on the skin to promote crispness.
  4. Sprinkle salt and pepper generously over each fillet, then scatter minced garlic if using, for added aroma and flavor.
  5. Squeeze fresh lemon juice evenly over the fillets, just before baking, to brighten the flavors.
  6. Sprinkle chopped herbs like dill and parsley over the salmon for a fresh, aromatic layer.
  7. Bake the salmon in the oven for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness. The fish should turn opaque and flake easily when tested with a fork.
  8. Once out of the oven, transfer the salmon to a plate and let it rest for 3-5 minutes. This pause allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender, moist fillets.
  9. After resting, serve the salmon with extra herbs and lemon wedges for a bright, flavorful presentation. Drizzle with a little more olive oil if desired.