Baked Salmon with Lemon Mayo Glaze

This baked salmon recipe features a delicious lemon mayo glaze, making it an easy, flavorful meal. The combination of simple ingredients, like fresh salmon, lemon, and a blend of seasonings, creates a perfectly cooked fillet with a golden, crispy top. This oven-baked salmon is healthy, quick to prepare, and ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. It’s also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, offering a nutritious and tasty way to get more fish into your diet. Perfect for those looking for a simple, low-maintenance dinner that still packs a punch of flavor. Serve with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs fresh salmon fillet
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp sugar
• 1/8 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/8 tsp garlic powder
• 1/8 tsp paprika
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 lemon, sliced

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Instructions:

Prepare the Salmon:

1. Preheat the oven to 350˚F (175˚C) and line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a small bowl, combine the salt, sugar, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture evenly over the top of the salmon fillet.

Apply the Mayo Glaze:

3. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise over the seasoned salmon. Don’t overdo it; a little goes a long way.
4. Arrange thin slices of lemon over the top of the salmon for added flavor and fragrance.

Bake the Salmon:

5. Cover the salmon loosely with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
6. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and broil the salmon for an additional 3 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crispy.
7. Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Simple yet flavorful: The combination of seasonings and lemon mayo glaze brings out the natural richness of the salmon without overpowering it.
• Quick and easy: This recipe is a great way to make a flavorful and healthy meal with minimal effort, taking just about 25 minutes in total.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether you’re making dinner for the family or hosting guests, this baked salmon recipe is both impressive and satisfying.

Tips:

• Don’t Overdo the Mayo: A thin layer is all you need. Too much mayo can make the salmon too rich and greasy.
• Broil for a Crispy Finish: Broiling the salmon after baking helps create a crisp, golden top that adds texture and flavor.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Herb Variation: Add fresh or dried herbs such as dill, thyme, or parsley to the mayo glaze for extra flavor.
• Add a Zesty Twist: For a citrusy twist, swap out the lemon slices for lime or orange slices.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free mayo alternative to make this recipe suitable for those avoiding dairy.

FAQs:

Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, frozen salmon can be used, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking for the best texture and flavor.

How long does it take to bake salmon at 350°F?
Baking at 350°F typically takes about 20 minutes, but the time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillet. You can test doneness by flaking the fish with a fork.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best to bake the salmon fresh, you can prepare the seasoning and mayo glaze ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli, for a complete meal.
• Pair with a fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette for a light, healthy meal.
• This dish also pairs well with quinoa, couscous, or mashed potatoes for a more hearty side.

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