Salmon With Onions & Capers
Delicate salmon fillets topped with a savory caper and onion sauce, baked to perfection. A flavorful, elegant dish perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. In a non-stick 12-inch skillet, heat 1 tsp. olive oil over medium-high heat until hot.
- Add salmon rounded side down and cook until lightly browned, about 2 minutes. Transfer salmon to a 13 x 9-inch glass baking dish and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tsp. oil, cook onion over medium heat 5 minutes or until tender.
- Add capers, vinegar, and sugar, and cook 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Spoon caper mixture over salmon, cover with foil, and place in the oven. Bake 12 to 15 minutes or until salmon flakes easily.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, marinate the salmon in olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and spices for 30 minutes before cooking. If you don’t have capers, chopped green olives can be a good substitute. For added depth, consider using red onions instead of yellow. This dish is versatile; you can also add cherry tomatoes or spinach to the caper mixture for extra color and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the salmon with a side of steamed asparagus or quinoa for a balanced meal. A fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette also complements the dish well. For a heartier offering, consider pairing it with Cold Rice With Shrimp to enhance the seafood theme. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an extra pop of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the salmon in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. You can also gently warm it in the microwave, but this may affect the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Salmon With Onions & Capers contains roughly 149 calories, with 3g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 849mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, frozen salmon can be used, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. This will help ensure even cooking and optimal texture. Place the frozen fillets in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water until thawed. Adjust cooking time slightly if your fillets are thicker.
What type of onion works best in this dish?
Yellow onions are commonly used due to their balanced sweetness and flavor, but you can also use red onions for a slightly sharper taste and vibrant color. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider using sweet onions like Vidalia. Each option will add a unique twist to the dish.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the onion and caper mixture can enhance both the flavor and nutritional value of the dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure all ingredients are cooked through while still vibrant.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).