Imagine a culinary masterpiece that transforms an ordinary salmon into a restaurant-worthy feast with minimal effort. This Lemon Herb Baked Whole Salmon is not just a recipe; it's a flavor explosion that will transport your taste buds to a gourmet seaside dining experience. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and simple techniques, you'll create a show-stopping dish that looks impressive, tastes incredible, and will have your family and guests begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Seafood
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole salmon (about 4 pounds)
- 2 lemons, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (dill, parsley)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Thoroughly rinse the whole salmon under cold water and pat completely dry with paper towels. This ensures the herbs and seasonings will adhere properly.
- Place the salmon on the prepared baking sheet, opening it up slightly to allow for even cooking. If the salmon has been gutted, check the cavity and remove any remaining internal membranes.
- Drizzle the olive oil both inside and outside of the salmon, using a pastry brush to ensure even coverage. This helps create a moist and flavorful result.
- Generously season the inside and outside of the salmon with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Be sure to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Finely chop the fresh herbs (dill and parsley) and sprinkle them inside the salmon cavity and over the exterior, pressing gently to help them adhere.
- Arrange the lemon slices inside the salmon cavity and place additional slices decoratively on top of and around the fish.
- Carefully fold the salmon back together if it was opened, ensuring the herbs and lemon slices remain in place.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the flesh becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from the oven and let the salmon rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Carefully transfer to a serving platter, garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately with your choice of sides such as roasted vegetables or a light salad.
Tips
- Always choose a fresh, high-quality whole salmon for the best results. Look for firm, bright flesh with a clean ocean smell.
- Pat the salmon completely dry before seasoning to help herbs and oil adhere better and achieve a crispy exterior.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure precise doneness. Salmon is perfectly cooked at 145°F (63°C) - this prevents overcooking and keeps the fish moist.
- Don't skip the resting period after baking. This crucial step allows juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is succulent and tender.
- For extra flavor, experiment with different herb combinations like rosemary, thyme, or tarragon alongside the classic dill and parsley.
- If you're nervous about cooking a whole fish, ask your fishmonger to clean and prep the salmon for you, making the process even easier.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 678kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 61g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 200mg
