Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal? Then look no further! This salmon with sun-dried tomatoes recipe is your answer. It's a simple dish packed with amazing Mediterranean flavors, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is a go-to for busy cooks who still want to enjoy delicious, homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up nicely in the oven.
Step 2: Create the Flavorful Topping
In a small bowl, combine the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a fragrant and flavorful topping.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the sun-dried tomato mixture evenly over the top of each fillet, ensuring they're well coated.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
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 fillets. For a crispier skin (if using skin-on fillets), broil for the last minute or two, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your healthy and delicious meal! This salmon dish pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the salmon! Overcooked salmon will be dry and tough. Start checking for doneness around the 12-minute mark.
- Use high-quality ingredients. The better the ingredients, the better the dish will taste. Look for fresh, flavorful salmon and good quality olive oil.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste. Feel free to add more or less of any seasoning to suit your preferences. A pinch of red pepper flakes could add a nice kick!
- For a richer flavor: Add a tablespoon of capers to the sun-dried tomato mixture.
Variations:
- Add some heat: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes to the topping for a spicy kick.
- Creamy variation: Stir in a dollop of crème fraîche or Greek yogurt after baking for a creamy finish.
- Lemon zest: Add some lemon zest to the topping for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This easy recipe provides a healthy and satisfying meal, perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas without compromising on taste. It’s a wonderful addition to your repertoire of best recipes for delicious and healthy dishes, ideal for both easy recipes and homemade cooking enthusiasts. Enjoy!