Delicious Oven-Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce

In today’s fast-paced world, it's essential to find easy yet delicious recipes that can be prepared quickly and enjoyed by the whole family. One such recipe is oven-baked salmon, which not only tastes amazing but also is packed with health benefits. This dish is perfect for a quick dinner or even as part of a healthy lunch menu. The key ingredient in this recipe is fresh salmon fillets paired with a zesty lemon butter sauce that adds a burst of flavor to each bite.

Before we dive into the steps, let’s discuss the nutritional value of salmon. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health and brain function. It also contains high-quality protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to build muscle or simply maintain overall body strength.

Ingredients

To make this delicious dish, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 3 tablespoons butter, softened
• A handful of fresh dill or parsley for garnish

Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Steps to Prepare Oven-Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the salmon fillets under cold running water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides of each piece generously with salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, zest, and softened butter until well combined. Set aside this mixture for later use as your sauce base.
4. Place the salmon fillets in a single layer on an oven-safe baking dish or pan lined with foil or parchment paper. Drizzle each piece lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
5. Bake the salmon for about 20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) as measured by a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of one fillet without touching bone. It’s important not to overcook; otherwise, the texture might become dry.
6. Remove the baking dish from the oven and transfer the salmon onto individual plates. Spread some of the lemon butter sauce evenly over each fillet for added freshness and flavor.
7. If desired, sprinkle fresh dill or parsley on top for extra color and freshness.

Nutritional Benefits

Salmon is a powerhouse when it comes to nutrition. It provides essential nutrients like vitamins D and B12, niacin, vitamin E, potassium, magnesium, selenium, phosphorus, and omega-3 fatty acids. These elements contribute significantly towards brain health, cardiovascular support, eye protection, muscle development, bone strength, reducing inflammation, and even fighting depression.

Omega-3 fats are known to improve blood flow to the brain, which may help prevent Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological conditions. Additionally, they can reduce levels of triglycerides in your blood and lower your risk for heart disease. For vegetarians who do not consume fish regularly or those avoiding dairy products due to lactose intolerance, salmon offers a great plant-free alternative to meet their nutritional needs.

Additional Tips

• You can use this same recipe with different types of fish if you prefer, such as tilapia, cod, or halibut. Simply adjust the cooking time according to the thickness and type of your chosen fish.
• To add some variety, try adding other ingredients like asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or capers during the baking process for an extra layer of flavor and color.
• If you're looking to make this dish vegan-friendly, substitute butter with coconut oil and replace fresh dill/herbs with soy sauce or tamari.

By following these simple steps, you'll have a mouthwatering dinner ready in no time. Not only does it look impressive on the table, but its taste is equally satisfying. Whether enjoyed solo during quiet nights at home or shared with loved ones over laughter and conversation, this recipe guarantees delightful flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds!