Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This dry brine salmon recipe is your answer. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy marinades; this method delivers unbelievably flavorful, flaky salmon with minimal effort. It's perfect for busy weeknights and impresses even the most discerning palates. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, showcasing how simple ingredients can create a truly special meal. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Brine
In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, granulated sugar, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This simple mixture forms the base of our dry brine, which will gently season and tenderize the salmon.
Step 2: Brining the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets on a plate or shallow dish. Generously sprinkle the salt mixture evenly over both sides of the fillets, ensuring they are completely coated. This is a crucial step for achieving that perfectly seasoned and juicy result.
Step 3: Rest and Refrigerate
Cover the salmon loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The longer brining time allows the salt to penetrate the fish, resulting in a more flavorful and moist final product. Don't worry about over-brining; the dry brine method is forgiving!
Step 4: Cooking the Salmon
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the brined salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Baking to Perfection
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillets. Thicker fillets may require a few extra minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Serve your delicious, healthy meal immediately. It pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or quinoa.
Tips for the Best Dry Brined Salmon:
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to customize the seasoning blend to your liking. Add herbs like dill, thyme, or rosemary for extra flavor.
- Room Temperature Salmon: For even cooking, take the salmon out of the refrigerator about 15 minutes before baking.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure your salmon fillets have enough space on the baking sheet for even cooking.
- Check for Doneness: Use a fork to gently flake the salmon; it’s done when it flakes easily.
Variations:
- Pan-Seared Salmon: Instead of baking, pan-sear the brined salmon in a skillet with a little olive oil for a crispy skin.
- Grilled Salmon: Grill the brined salmon over medium heat for a smoky flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Fat: 8-12 grams
This dry brine salmon recipe is a true gem among easy recipes. It’s a healthy meal option that’s both quick to prepare and packed with flavor. Perfect for a quick dinner idea, this recipe fits seamlessly into any busy lifestyle. Try it tonight and experience the difference a simple dry brine can make!