Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious and healthy meal that doesn't take all evening to prepare? Then look no further! This convection oven salmon recipe is your answer. It's incredibly easy, delivers perfectly cooked salmon every time, and is packed with flavor. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this simple, yet impressive dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill (for garnish, optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your convection oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This is a great tip for all your baking needs!
Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up nicely. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Marinate and bake: Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Pour the lemon-herb mixture over the salmon, ensuring both sides are coated. For extra flavor, let it marinate for 10-15 minutes, but it's perfectly fine to skip this step if you're short on time.
Cook to perfection: Bake in the preheated convection oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets and your oven. Always check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part; it should flake easily.
Garnish and serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and garnish with fresh dill, if desired. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or quinoa.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Salmon:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the salmon fillets for even cooking.
- Check for doneness: Use a fork to gently check if the salmon flakes easily. Overcooked salmon will be dry.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker fillets will require a longer cooking time. Thinner fillets may cook faster.
- Experiment with herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking. Italian seasoning, paprika, or even a little bit of chili flakes can add a delicious kick!
Variations:
- Honey Garlic Salmon: Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the marinade for a sweet and savory flavor.
- Spicy Salmon: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Dill Butter Salmon: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and fresh dill before serving, and drizzle over the cooked salmon.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 1-2 grams
This convection oven salmon recipe is a fantastic option for those seeking quick dinner ideas and easy recipes. It's a healthy meal that's both delicious and impressive. Enjoy!