Oven-baked salmon

45 min
Oven-baked salmon

This oven-baked salmon recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication. And the best part? It is incredibly simple to make. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and appetising meal for the whole family. The sour cream and dill layer on top give a bright and refreshing flavour, while the buttery and tender texture of the fish is a true delight to your palate. Try this recipe tonight and see for yourself just how easy and delicious it is to make!

Ingredients

Fresh whole salmon with skin
1½ kilo
Salt
1½ tsp
Coarsely ground white pepper
¼ tsp
Chopped fresh dill
1 dl
Sour cream
200 ml

Garnish

Fresh dill
Lemons

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 200°C.
  • Place the salmon with the skin side down in a greased baking dish. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Mix dill with sour cream and spread it over the fish.
  • Bake it in the middle of the oven for about 20 minutes at 200°C.
  • Garnish with fresh dill and lemon.
Enjoy!

Tips

Make sure to choose fresh, high-quality salmon. Look for salmon that has a firm texture, shiny skin, and a bright, pinkish-red colour. Also, allow it to come to room temperature before cooking to ensure it cooks evenly. This also helps the salmon retain its moisture and texture. Be sure not to overcook it, as it can become dry and lose its flavour. The general rule of thumb is to cook salmon for about 10 minutes per 2.5 cm of thickness.

Questions about oven-baked salmon

In need of a simple and easy weeknight dinner? Then we have the perfect recipe for you with our tender oven-baked salmon with dill and sour cream. Read on to learn more about this delicious dinner or lunch idea!

How to bake salmon?

Place the salmon with the skin side down in a greased baking dish, and season it with salt and pepper. Next, mix chopped dill with sour cream and spread it over the fish. Bake the salmon in the middle of a preheated oven at 200°C for about 20 minutes or until it is cooked through. Finally, garnish it with fresh dill and lemon before serving.

What temperature for baked salmon?

Baked salmon is typically cooked at a temperature of around 200°C. This temperature is ideal because it allows the fish to cook through without overcooking and becoming dry. Salmon is a delicate fish that can easily dry out if cooked at too high a temperature or for too long. Therefore, it is important to use a moderate temperature and to keep a close eye on it while it is cooking so it does not overcook.

What to serve with baked salmon?

To create a well-rounded meal, baked salmon can be served with a variety of delicious sides. Roasted vegetables add a smoky flavour and a contrasting texture, while rice or quinoa can absorb the flavours from the juices and enhance the overall taste. Salads provide a fresh and light contrast to the rich main course, while potatoes offer a hearty and satisfying side that complements the flavours of the baked salmon.

Can you freeze baked salmon?

Baked salmon can be frozen for up to 2-3 months if properly stored. Allow it to cool, then wrap it in cling film or foil, or place it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. When you are ready to enjoy it, defrost it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the oven or microwave.

How long can you keep baked salmon in the fridge?

Baked salmon can typically be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days. First, allow the baked salmon to cool to room temperature before refrigerating, and then wrap it in foil or cling film. Alternatively, you can place it in an airtight container. This will help prevent it from drying out and developing off-flavours.

Can you reheat baked salmon?

Yes, baked salmon can be reheated using different methods, such as an oven or a microwave. To reheat it in the oven, preheat it to 150°C, cover the salmon with foil, and bake it for 10-15 minutes. If you are using the microwave, place the baked salmon in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat it for 30-60 seconds.

Easy oven-baked salmon with lemon and dill

Our recipe for baked salmon is a great option for anyone who loves a delicious dish that is exceedingly easy to prepare. The combination of lemon and dill is a classic one that works perfectly with the tender, flaky texture of baked salmon. The result is a beautiful dish that is packed with flavour and will melt in your mouth. It is a great option for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the leftovers make for great meal prep options for the next day or two.

Looking for more fish-themed recipes? Try our fresh fish soup with cod and shrimp, easy smoked salmon pasta, or classic fish and chips.

Browned sour cream and dill topping

The sour cream topping serves a dual purpose in this baked salmon recipe. First, it provides a creamy and tangy flavour that pairs perfectly with the rich and buttery texture of the fish. The addition of fresh dill adds a pop of herbaceous flavour that complements the buttery fish. But the real magic happens when the sour cream topping is browned and caramelised under the broiler. It adds an irresistible depth of flavour, creating a savoury and slightly sweet ‘crust’ on top.

Simple and classic flavours with a buttery, soft texture

When it comes to cooking, sometimes less is more! This simple recipe combines classic flavours of lemon and dill with a buttery, soft texture that melts in your mouth. Dill provides a delicate, slightly sweet flavour that pairs well with an array of seafood, while the lemon adds a bright and refreshing tang. Together, they create a perfect balance of flavours that elevate the taste of the salmon. The result is a dish that is both comforting and refined, perfect for any occasion.

Delicious side dishes for baked salmon

Baked salmon is a great main course that can be paired with a wide range of sides to create a complete and satisfying meal. Its versatility means that you can experiment with different flavour combinations to find the perfect accompaniment.

If you are looking for something light and simple, try roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or carrots. For something a little heartier, go with rice or quinoa, which are both great options that can be cooked in chicken or vegetable broth for added flavour. When in doubt, a simple salad is always a good choice, and you can customise it with your favourite ingredients.

Depending on what you choose, it will make the perfect dinner or lunch with either a light and refreshing or a heartier side dish.

Make it your own

One of the best things about baked salmon is how easy it is to experiment with different flavours and seasonings. By adding different spices and herbs to the sour cream topping, you can completely transform the flavour profile. For example, you might try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin for a little extra kick. Alternatively, you could try swapping out the dill for other herbs, such as thyme or rosemary. You could even add some crushed garlic or chopped shallots to the sour cream mixture for added depth.

Marinating the salmon before baking is also an excellent way to infuse it with additional flavours. A simple marinade for baked salmon made from olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic can add a zingy aroma to the fish. Place the salmon fillet in a shallow dish, pour the marinade over it, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes before baking. You can experiment with other ingredients, such as soy sauce, honey, or mustard, to create different flavour combinations. Get creative and make the recipe your own – you might just stumble upon a new favourite!

https://www.arlafoods.co.uk/recipes/oven-baked-salmon/