- How do I know it's ready?
- Press top gently: if flakes separate, it's ready. Or if you see white protein (albumin) precipitating on side, take it out!
- Why is it dry?
- Overcooked. Salmon needs very little time. Better take it out sooner; it cooks further for a few minutes from its own heat.
Baked salmon
Cooking salmon is a prime example of 'less is more'. This fish's meat is rich in beneficial fats keeping it juicy, but only if not overcooked. The goal is a pink, flaky texture. Lemon and dill are classic companions: acid and fresh herb counterbalance the fish's richness.
Ingredients
4
slices
Salmon fillet (with or without skin)
2
tbsp
Olive oil
1
pc
Lemon (half for juice, half sliced)
1
tsp
Salt
0.5
tsp
Freshly ground black pepper
1
bunch
Fresh dill
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Baking tray
- Baking paper
- Pastry brush
Allergen Information
Fish
Instructions
1
✓
Preheat oven to 200°C. Wipe salmon slices dry with kitchen paper.
Tip: Moisture is enemy of baking: wet fish will steam, not bake.
2
✓
Place slices on tray lined with baking paper (skin side down if present). Brush with olive oil, drizzle with lemon juice.
Tip: Acid (lemon juice) starts 'cooking' protein before baking (denaturation), so put it on only immediately before baking.
3
✓
Salt, pepper, and place lemon slices next to/on it.
Tip: Baked lemon slice caramelises and gives extra flavour.
4
✓
Bake for 12-15 minutes. It's good if outside is matte pink, inside is just cooked, juicy.
Tip: Don't wait until completely hard! From residual heat it 'pulls' to perfection by serving time.
5
✓
Sprinkle generously with fresh chopped dill when serving.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 4 slices Salmon fillet (with or without skin)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 pc Lemon (half for juice, half sliced)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 bunch Fresh dill