Description
This baked king salmon recipe offers a delicious and simple way to prepare a rich, flavorful fish dish. The salmon is coated in a buttery mixture with hints of lemon, honey, and spices, then baked to perfection until tender and flaky. Ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is quick to prepare and pairs beautifully with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon
- 1 1/2 pounds king salmon
Butter Mixture
- 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 reaches the right temperature for perfectly baking the salmon.
- Prepare Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, paprika, kosher salt, cumin, and garlic powder. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Prepare Salmon: Place the salmon fillet skin-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Use a paper towel to pat the salmon dry, helping the butter mixture adhere better.
- Brush Butter Mixture: Generously brush the prepared butter mixture over the top of the salmon, ensuring the fillet is fully covered with a flavorful glaze.
- Bake the Salmon: Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit at the thickest part of the fillet.
- Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley and lemon wedges, if desired, to add fresh flavors and vibrant color.
Notes
- Using a meat thermometer ensures the salmon is cooked perfectly without drying out.
- If king salmon is unavailable, other types of salmon, such as sockeye or Atlantic salmon, can be used as alternatives.
- For crispier skin, broil the salmon for the last 2 minutes of baking.
- Leftover salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste; more honey can add sweetness, or extra lemon juice can increase tanginess.
