Are you tired of dry, bland fish that leaves you disappointed? Get ready to revolutionize your dinner game with this mouthwatering Garlic Cilantro Oven Baked Salmon that promises restaurant-quality flavor right in your own kitchen! This incredibly easy recipe transforms simple salmon fillets into a gourmet masterpiece that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for baking salmon, ensuring it cooks evenly while retaining moisture.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent the salmon from sticking.
- In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped cilantro, olive oil, and lemon juice. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. This will create a flavorful marinade for the salmon.
- Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin side down. Make sure they are spaced apart to allow for even cooking.
- Generously season each salmon fillet with salt and pepper to taste. This step enhances the flavor of the fish.
- Using a spoon or a brush, evenly distribute the garlic-cilantro mixture over the top of each salmon fillet. Ensure that the fillets are well coated for maximum flavor.
- Once the fillets are coated, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- While the salmon is baking, you can prepare any side dishes you'd like to serve with it, such as steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
- Once the salmon is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the fish even more tender.
- Serve the garlic cilantro oven-baked salmon warm, garnished with additional fresh cilantro if desired, along with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Salmon: Always select high-quality, fresh salmon fillets with a bright color and firm texture for the best results.
- Pat Dry Before Seasoning: Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the salmon before adding your marinade. This helps the seasonings stick better and promotes perfect browning.
- Don't Overcook: Salmon cooks quickly, so watch it carefully. The fish is done when it easily flakes with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Room Temperature Matters: Let your salmon sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Use freshly chopped cilantro for the most vibrant flavor. If possible, chop the herbs right before adding them to the marinade.
- Lemon Trick: Save some fresh lemon wedges for serving to add a bright, citrusy finish that enhances the fish's flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 300kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 34g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 90mg
