Description
This Baked King Salmon recipe offers a delicious and healthy way to enjoy rich, flavorful salmon fillets. Coated with a buttery, lemony glaze enhanced by honey, Dijon mustard, and aromatic spices, the salmon is baked to perfection for a tender, flaky texture. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal, this recipe serves four and includes optional fresh herbs and lemon wedges for added brightness.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 1 1/2 pounds king salmon
Glaze
- 3 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Optional Toppings
- Fresh dill
- Fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it's hot and ready for baking the salmon evenly.
- Make Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, paprika, kosher salt, cumin, and garlic powder. Stir thoroughly to create a smooth, flavorful glaze for the salmon.
- Prepare Salmon: Place the salmon fillet skin-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Pat the salmon dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, helping the glaze adhere better.
- Apply Glaze: Brush the prepared butter mixture generously all over the top of the salmon, making sure it is fully coated to impart flavor and moisture during baking.
- Bake the Salmon: Place the salmon in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Bake until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit measured at the thickest part of the fillet using an instant-read thermometer.
- Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and serve immediately. Garnish with optional fresh dill, fresh parsley, and lemon wedges to enhance freshness and presentation.
Notes
- Check the internal temperature with a food thermometer to avoid overcooking, which can dry out the salmon.
- Using fresh herbs like dill or parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor that complements the richness of the salmon.
- The skin side down placement helps protect the fish during baking and makes it easier to lift from the pan when serving.
- You can adjust the honey quantity to make the glaze more or less sweet according to your preference.
- Be sure to use parchment or foil to prevent sticking and facilitate quick cleanup.