Are you tired of dry, overcooked salmon? Do you dream of flaky, moist, and perfectly seasoned salmon that's easy to make even on a busy weeknight? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe, inspired by the culinary genius of Alton Brown, guarantees delicious results every single time. It’s one of those easy recipes that elevates a simple weeknight dinner into a healthy and impressive meal. Prepare to impress yourself and your loved ones with this foolproof method for achieving salmon perfection.
Ingredients:
- 1 (1-1.5 pound) salmon fillet, skin on or off (your preference!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This seemingly simple step is crucial for achieving even cooking.
Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels. This step is essential for proper browning and crispy skin (if using skin-on). Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Don't be shy with the salt!
Sear (optional): For added flavor and a beautiful crust, you can sear the salmon in a hot oven-safe skillet with olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side before transferring it to the oven. This is a great method for skin-on salmon.
Bake to perfection: Place the seasoned salmon fillet in a baking dish (if not already in a skillet) and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your fillet.
Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful fish. Serve immediately with your favorite sides for a complete and delicious meal.
Cooking Tips for Salmon Success:
- Don't overcook it: Overcooked salmon is dry and unpleasant. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the perfect internal temperature.
- Pat it dry: A dry surface helps with browning and crisping the skin.
- Season generously: Don’t be afraid to use plenty of salt and other seasonings. Salmon has a rich flavor that can handle it.
- Choose quality salmon: The better the quality of the salmon, the better the taste.
Variations:
- Lemon-Dill Salmon: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of dried dill to the seasoning mix.
- Honey-Garlic Salmon: Drizzle the salmon with 1 tablespoon of honey before baking.
- Spicy Salmon: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a 4-ounce serving of salmon and may vary based on preparation and specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 20-25 grams
- Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams
- Sodium: Varies depending on seasoning
This Alton Brown-inspired salmon recipe is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas, homemade cooking at its finest, and one of the best recipes for achieving delicious and healthy meals. Enjoy!