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Oven-Baked Salmon

Name: Oven-Baked Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 servings.
Ingredients: 1 salmon fillet (2 pounds); 2 tablespoons butter, softened; 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon

54 reviews

Test Kitchen Approved

Total Time

Prep/Total Time: 30 min.

Makes

8 servings

Updated: Jan. 25, 2023

I often make this very moist and flavorful oven-baked salmon for company because I can have it ready in less than half an hour. This baked salmon with lemon is well complemented by rice or a green vegetable and a tossed salad. —Emily Chaney, Penobscot, Maine

Ingredients

1 salmon fillet (2 pounds)
2 tablespoons butter, softened
1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon

Directions

Pat salmon dry. Place in a greased 13x9-in. baking dish. Brush with butter. Combine remaining ingredients; pour over salmon.
Bake, uncovered, at 425° for 15-20 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork.

Oven-Baked Salmon Tips

What kind of salmon fillets should you buy for oven-baked salmon?

We advise buying salmon fillets with the skin still on. The skin acts as a barrier from heat, which helps keep the delicate meat nice and tender, and also makes for a tasty addition once it's cooked. The only time we would recommend removing the skin from salmon is if you’re planning to poach or cook it en papillote, because these methods can result in soggy skin.

How can you make oven-baked salmon your own?

Try adding other spices such as chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley flakes or ground cumin. You can also garnish it with fresh herbs or sautéed vegetables like peas and carrots. Get inspiration from more of our favorite salmon recipes.

How do you keep salmon from drying out?

In this baked salmon recipe, butter is what really helps to lock in the moisture. However, the best way to keep salmon from drying out is to avoid overbaking it.

How do you tell when salmon is finished cooking?

When salmon is done cooking, it will feel a little firm when you press it with the back of a spatula, and it will flake easily with a fork. If you’re unsure, the safest way to tell if salmon is done cooking is to use a thermometer. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends cooking salmon to an internal temperature of at least 145ºF.

What vegetables can you serve with oven-baked salmon?

While really anything can go with salmon, a colorful platter of grilled vegetables is the perfect complement. Salmon would also pair well with a summer vegetable pasta.

How long will leftover oven-baked salmon last?

Leftover oven-baked salmon will last in the fridge for 2 to 3 days. However, salmon may expire sooner depending on how fresh it was when cooked. Make sure you check on your salmon to see if it's developing a slimy texture or milky discoloration. If so, discard. Here's more on how long to keep fish in the fridge, whether it's salmon or cod or halibut.

Is oven-baked salmon healthy?

Salmon is an excellent source of antioxidants and vitamins, but it’s the fatty acids in salmon that really make it a 5-star healthy option. Baking salmon in the oven is one way to cook it, but there are many other methods to try, including pan-searing, grilling and broiling. Learn more in our guide to how to cook salmon.

—Catherine Ward, Taste of Home Prep Kitchen Manager and Sammi DiVito, Taste of Home Assistant Editor

Nutrition Facts

3 ounces cooked salmon: 209 calories, 13g fat (4g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 78mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 fat.