Easy Salmon Dinner Ideas
This easy salmon dinner is quick, healthy, and full of flavor! šāØ Ready in under 30 minutes, itās perfect for busy nights. Serve it with veggies, rice, or salad for a simple, delicious meal
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets about 6 oz each
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp salt
- Ā½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika optional
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400Ā°F (200Ā°C) or heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Prepare the salmon: Pat dry the fillets and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Cook the salmon:
- For oven: Place on a lined baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 12-15 minutes until flaky.
- For skillet: Heat olive oil in a pan, add salmon skin-side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Add flavor: In the last minute, add butter, garlic, and lemon juice, basting the salmon for extra flavor.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides like roasted veggies, rice, or salad.
Notes
- Cooking Tip: For the juiciest salmon, cook until it flakes easily with a fork but is still slightly pink in the center. Overcooking can make it dry.
- Crispy Skin: If you love crispy skin, cook salmon skin-side down first in a hot pan for 4-5 minutes before flipping.
- Marination: Marinate for 15-30 minutes with lemon, garlic, and herbs for extra flavor, but donāt over-marinateāit can break down the texture.
- Baking Alternative: If baking, use parchment paper for easy cleanup and avoid sticking.
- Side Dishes: Pair with roasted vegetables, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a pan over low heat or in the oven at 300Ā°F (150Ā°C) to prevent drying out.