Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious and healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Then look no further! This red pepper salmon recipe is your answer. It's a fantastically flavorful dish that's both easy to make and packed with nutrients. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with this stunning and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, prepare your vegetables. Thinly slice the red bell pepper and red onion. Mince the garlic cloves. This simple prep work will make the cooking process much smoother.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets in a baking dish. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, and oregano. Don't be shy with the seasoning; it truly elevates the flavor of the salmon.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In a separate pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced red onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the sliced red pepper and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender-crisp.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Add the sautéed vegetables to the baking dish with the seasoned salmon fillets. Drizzle the vegetables and salmon with lemon juice. This adds a bright, fresh element to the dish.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for food safety.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This dish is delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with a side of quinoa, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete and healthy meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Red Pepper Salmon:
- Choose high-quality salmon: Opt for wild-caught salmon whenever possible for a richer flavor and superior nutritional value.
- Don't overcook the salmon: Overcooked salmon will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to perfection.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and oregano to your liking. Experiment with other herbs and spices, too!
- Add a touch of heat: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sautéed vegetables.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Salmon: Replace the oregano with a blend of fresh herbs like dill, thyme, and parsley.
- Garlic Parmesan Salmon: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the sautéed vegetables for a richer flavor.
- Mediterranean Salmon: Incorporate Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese into the vegetables.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 30-35g Fat: 20-25g Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This red pepper salmon recipe provides a delicious and healthy dinner option that's quick to prepare and packed with flavor. It's a perfect example of how easy homemade cooking can be, resulting in a truly satisfying and nutritious meal. Enjoy!