Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This salmon with mayonnaise recipe is your answer. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and it delivers a burst of flavor that will impress your family and friends. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to experience a delightful combination of flaky salmon and a rich, creamy mayonnaise sauce that's simply irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Salmon:
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Make the Mayonnaise Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, dill, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This sauce is incredibly versatile; feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Bake the Salmon:
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Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil.
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Spread a generous layer of the mayonnaise sauce over the top of each salmon fillet.
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Bake 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.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious and healthy salmon dinner!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Salmon:
- Don't overcook the salmon! Overcooked salmon becomes dry and tough. Start checking for doneness around the 12-minute mark.
- Use fresh ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will significantly impact the flavor of your dish.
- Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat is a great option.
- Meal prep friendly: Prepare the mayonnaise sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake the salmon.
Variations:
- Lemon-Herb Salmon: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and chopped fresh herbs like chives or thyme to the mayonnaise sauce.
- Spicy Salmon: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mayonnaise sauce for a spicy kick.
- Garlic-Parmesan Salmon: Add grated Parmesan cheese and extra garlic powder to the mayonnaise sauce for a richer flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on salmon fillet size)
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Low
This easy salmon recipe is a perfect example of how simple homemade cooking can be. It’s a healthy meal option, ready in under 30 minutes, and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish!