Southern Oven Salmon
Juicy oven-baked salmon topped with fresh herbs and lemon slices, perfectly complemented by rice pilaf and tangy cucumber, ideal for a flavorful, healthful dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F.
- Line a baking sheet with foil and grease the foil well.
- Generously oil the salmon skin.
- Place the fish skin side down on the foil.
- Remove any bones from the salmon.
- Season the salmon with salt and pepper.
- Combine minced parsley and green onions, then spread over the salmon.
- Cover the salmon with lemon slices.
- Bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove the lemon slices and scrape off any loose parsley.
- Serve with rice pilaf and spoon cucumber mixture down the center of each salmon piece.
Tips & Substitutions
For a zesty twist, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. If fresh parsley is unavailable, substitute with fresh cilantro or dill. Ensure the salmon is at room temperature before baking for even cooking. If you prefer a smokier flavor, try grilling the salmon instead of baking, or incorporate a few drops of liquid smoke into the marinade.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the salmon over a bed of wild rice or leek pilaf for a hearty meal. Pair it with mustard-glazed cucumbers for a refreshing contrast. This dish also complements a simple green salad or roasted vegetables, adding a lovely balance to the richness of the salmon. For a delightful addition, consider serving with a side of Quick New England Clam Chowder.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place the salmon in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to maintain its moisture. Alternatively, you can gently reheat it in the microwave at medium power for 1-2 minutes, ensuring not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Oven Salmon contains roughly 688 calories, with 39g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (77% of the Daily Value), iron (55% of the Daily Value), and potassium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 999mg per serving (43% 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, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water before cooking. This ensures even cooking and better texture.
What can I substitute for fresh parsley?
If fresh parsley isn't available, you can use fresh cilantro or dill as alternatives. Both will add a unique flavor to the salmon and complement the lemon nicely.
How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F. If you're unsure, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness to avoid overcooking.
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).