Are you tired of endless scrolling through recipe apps, searching for that perfect quick dinner idea? Yearning for the comforting feel of a well-loved cookbook, but frustrated by its unruly sprawl on your kitchen counter? Then this recipe is for you! "Bookends for Recipe Books" isn't just a clever title – it's a delicious and surprisingly simple salmon dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. Think of it as the perfect "bookend" to your day, providing a satisfying and healthy meal to frame your evening. It’s a healthy meal, easy to make and adaptable to your taste. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This simple step ensures your salmon cooks evenly and perfectly. Preheating is a crucial part of achieving delicious results in many food recipes.
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Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up nicely. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
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Create the flavor base: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic and chopped dill. This fragrant mix will add a burst of fresh flavor to your salmon.
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Assemble and bake: Place the salmon fillets in a baking dish. Top each fillet with half of the lemon slices, a spoonful of the garlic-dill mixture, and a few halved cherry tomatoes (if using). Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the salmon and lemon slices.
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Bake to perfection: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets. Always check for doneness to avoid overcooking.
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Serve and enjoy: Carefully remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with extra dill and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, if desired. This easy recipe is perfect served with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad.
Cooking Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish: Ensure there's enough space between the fillets for even cooking.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker fillets may require a few extra minutes in the oven. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Get creative with herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme.
- Add some spice: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic-dill mixture.
Variations:
- Sheet Pan Salmon: For an even easier cleanup, roast the salmon on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper.
- Lemon-Herb Butter: Melt a tablespoon of butter with the lemon slices and herbs for an extra rich flavor.
- Mediterranean Salmon: Add Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Fat: 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 2-5 grams
This delicious and healthy salmon recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. It's perfect for a weeknight meal and showcases the ease and satisfaction of homemade cooking. Enjoy!