Traditional Salmon Bake

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 25 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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This Traditional Salmon Bake is a perfect go-to dish for a family dinner or an elegant evening with friends. It combines the freshness of dill and lemon with the creamy richness of a Parmesan topping, making every bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients for Traditional Salmon Bake

The star of the show is, of course, the salmon fillet. It's rich in flavor and loaded with healthy fats, making it both delicious and nutritious. A drizzle of olive oil helps keep the salmon moist while it bakes. The lemon slices add a bright, zesty flavor that complements the richness of the fish. Fresh dill is a wonderful herb here, providing an aromatic freshness that really pops. The garlic lends its unmistakable warmth and depth to the dish. Seasoning with salt and black pepper is essential for enhancing all the flavors. The mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese mixture creates a creamy, tangy topping that browns beautifully in the oven. Finally, a touch of unsalted butter drizzled over the top adds a rich finish to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh dill if possible — dried dill just doesn’t pack the same punch.
  • If your salmon fillet is particularly thick, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
  • To avoid overcooking, start checking the salmon at the 20-minute mark.

Serving Suggestions

This salmon pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. For something heartier, consider serving it alongside roasted potatoes or a creamy risotto. A crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh dill is recommended for the best flavor. If you must use dried, reduce the amount by half.
Can I prepare this in advance?
You can prepare the salmon up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate for up to a few hours. Bake just before serving.
What if I don't have Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute with Pecorino Romano or even a sharp cheddar, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.

Traditional Salmon Bake Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it's at the right temperature when the salmon goes in, which helps it cook evenly. Get your baking sheet ready by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Lay the salmon fillet skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil over it, using your fingers or a brush to spread it evenly. Sprinkle the salt and black pepper over the top.

Next, arrange the lemon slices evenly over the salmon. Scatter the chopped dill across the top, ensuring it's evenly distributed for a burst of herby flavor in every bite.

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Spread this mixture over the salmon, aiming for a consistent layer that will melt into a delicious crust.

Finish by drizzling the melted butter over the top. This adds an extra touch of richness and helps the topping brown beautifully.

Slide the salmon into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You'll know it's done when it flakes easily with a fork, and the topping is golden and bubbly. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to prepare and requires minimal ingredients.
  • Perfect balance of flavors - citrus, herbs, and cheesy goodness.
  • A healthy yet hearty meal packed with omega-3s.
  • Great for impressing guests without spending all day in the kitchen.

Ingredients

2 lbs salmon fillet
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lemon, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the salmon fillet on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and season with salt and black pepper.
4. Arrange lemon slices over the salmon and sprinkle chopped dill evenly.
5. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic.
6. Spread the mayonnaise mixture over the salmon, ensuring even coverage.
7. Drizzle melted butter over the top for added richness.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
9. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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