Baked Salmon

This tender and flavorful baked salmon comes together in under 20 minutes using simple ingredients and a bold homemade seasoning blend. It delivers perfectly flaky results every time, making it ideal for quick weeknight dinners or effortless entertaining.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Total Time 20

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets about 6 oz each
2 tbsp olive oil extra-virgin optional
2 tsp minced garlic or 1 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp light brown sugar
2 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp sweet paprika
0.5 tsp black pepper
0.5 lemon for squeezing over cooked salmon

Method

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Pat the salmon fillets dry, then place them on the lined baking sheet. Brush evenly with olive oil.
In a small bowl, combine garlic, brown sugar, salt, paprika, and black pepper. Sprinkle the mixture over the salmon and press lightly to help it adhere.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily and the center is just opaque. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.

Notes

For extra browning, broil the salmon for the final minute. Thicker fillets may require 2–3 additional minutes. This recipe also works well with trout or Arctic char.