This recipe for how to bake salmon is very quick and easy. It makes a tasty, tender, buttery, moist salmon filet.
If there is one thing I bake all the dang time besides chocolate chip cookies its this salmon. We make it all the time, at least once a week, if not twice.
When I was younger, I used to pan-fry salmon, but I didn’t like how it smelled and how you had to watch over things while they were cooking. For that reason alone, I love using the oven. When I roast or bake food, I can do something else while it cooks.
If you want a crispy skin on your salmon, don’t bake it. Baking salmon makes the fish buttery, soft, and moist.
We usually have this salmon on top of a salad or with roasted vegetables. Makes for a quick weeknight dinner.
When I want to try something new, I’ll season the salmon with Ina Garten’s Onion Salt or Mrs. Dash Fiesta Lime seasoning.
Before I bake the salmon, I sometimes put lemon slices on top, but I like fresh squeezed lemon on top of my baked salmon better.
I like to cook my salmon at high heat, I go for 415F/213C. So first thing is to get that oven preheating.
Your choice: a ¼ sheet pan, a full sheet pan, a loaf pan, a square pan, or pretty much anything else will work.
Place the salmon filets skin-side down on a very lightly oiled baking tray. This is why I like to use the spray oils so I dont use tons of oil.
Spray the salmon with a very small amount of oil, and then season the filet with salt and pepper all over. Or whichever seasoning you are using.
Depending on the size of your filet, bake for 15 to 22 minutes. Salmon needs to be cooked to at least 145F/63C on the inside. Make sure you insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the salmon.
Another sign that the salmon is done is if it has lost some of its color and is easy to flake with a fork.
While the food is still warm, take the baking sheet out of the oven and cover it with foil. Serve with desired side dishes. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
As a seafood lover, I’m always looking for easy and delicious ways to prepare salmon Trader Joe’s offers high-quality salmon fillets that are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner After trying a few different cooking methods, I’ve honed in on a foolproof technique for baking Trader Joe’s salmon that results in a tender, flaky texture and amazing flavor every time.
In this article, I’ll share my step-by-step method for cooking Trader Joe’s salmon in the oven. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seafood expert you’ll learn some helpful tips and tricks for ensuring salmon success. Let’s get started!
Getting Started
When it comes to salmon, starting with high-quality fish is key. Trader Joe’s sells both wild-caught and farm-raised salmon fillets that are nicely portioned into individual servings. I like to keep a few fillets in my freezer so I always have some on hand for last-minute meals.
Thaw frozen salmon overnight in the fridge before cooking. Pat the fillet dry with paper towels and place it skin-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Salmon skin can get crispy and flavorful when baked, so you want that side touching the pan.
Seasoning is Key
One of the most important steps is seasoning the salmon before cooking. This helps flavor permeate the flesh and develops a beautiful crust. Get creative with your favorite spice rubs and herb blends! I like using a maple syrup glaze made with brown sugar, maple syrup, mustard, and chili powder. The sweet and spicy flavor combination is so delicious.
Brush the fillets generously with your seasoning mixture to fully coat. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before popping it in the oven so the flavors can start to penetrate
Baking to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze.
Once seasoned, place the salmon skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the thickest part of the fillet reads 145°F on a meat thermometer. Baking time can vary depending on the size and thickness of your fillets.
The fish should turn opaque and flake easily when fully cooked. I recommend investing in an instant-read thermometer to eliminate any salmon uncertainty. It’s the best way to ensure perfect doneness.
Serving Suggestions
As is, a soft, juicy salmon fillet straight from the oven doesn’t need many other sides or toppings. I like serving it with a fresh green salad or roasted veggies. To finish off the meal, you can serve it with grains like rice or quinoa.
Leftover baked salmon makes excellent salmon salad for lunch the next day. Flake the salmon and mix with mayo, lemon juice, diced celery, red onion, fresh dill, salt, and pepper. Serve on bread, crackers, or over greens for a protein-packed salad.
Helpful Tips and Tricks
After refining my go-to method over many salmon dinners, here are some top tips I’ve learned:
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Pat salmon fillets very dry before seasoning. This helps the seasoning evenly coat the fish.
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Preheat your oven and baking sheet before cooking. This prevents overcooking from residual heat.
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Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness instead of cutting into the fillet.
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Cook an extra fillet or two. Leftover salmon is great in salads, sandwiches, pasta, and more!
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Broil the salmon for 1-2 minutes at the end for crispy, browned edges.
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Sauteed spinach, roasted broccoli, and fresh green salads make tasty pairings.
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Serve with a tangy sauce like teriyaki, chimichurri, or a yogurt dill sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size salmon fillet should I buy?
I recommend 6-8 oz fillets for individual servings. Scale up for larger portions.
Can I use frozen salmon from Trader Joe’s?
Yes! Thaw frozen salmon overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Should I cook salmon skin-side up or down?
Always cook skin-side down to get beautifully crispy skin.
What if my salmon sticks to the parchment paper?
Make sure the paper is flush to the pan and oil it lightly before adding fish.
Can I marinate the salmon before baking?
Absolutely! Marinate for 30 mins – 1 hour to infuse flavor.
What are the best seasonings for salmon?
Maple syrup, brown sugar, mustard, soy sauce, chili powder, lemon, and fresh herbs.
What temperature should salmon reach when done?
Cook until the thickest part of the salmon reaches 145°F internally.
How do I know if my salmon is overcooked?
Overcooked salmon will be dry and flaky. Properly cooked salmon will be moist and tender.
Satisfying and Simple
With its mild flavor, hearty texture, and stellar nutritional benefits, salmon is a dinnertime winner in my book. Trader Joe’s high-quality salmon baked to flaky perfection is an easy route to a satisfying meal. I hope my tips help you achieve tasty, tender salmon results in your own kitchen. Get creative with seasonings and enjoy this versatile fish anytime – your family will thank you!
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What to serve with roasted salmon
An obvious choice would be roasted veggies since the oven is already on. My roasted carrot recipe is delicious. They may just need to bake a bit longer, while the salmon is resting.
In the photos above I paired the salmon with my corn, cucumber, and tomato salad.
This roasted broccolini recipe from my friend Ari would also be a delicious accompaniment.
★★★★★ Please let me know if you make this recipe by leaving a star rating and comment below!
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