Say yes to the most simple one-pot dinner. This easy baked salmon recipe is easy, fast, and makes the most tender oven-baked salmon. With hints of savory-sweet, the combo of ginger, garlic, soy, and a touch of sesame oil complement salmons’ rich texture making the fish, not the sauce, the absolute highlight of the meal.
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As a mom, time is of the essence all the time. I need to think of quick meals with the commentary of little judges in the background (no pressure at all) so coming up with fast, healthy, and protein-rich meals is important for us.
This oven-baked salmon recipe meets all the criteria being that it is quick to make and very simple to prepare.
Baked Salmon Temp for Tender Salmon
The key is the oven temperature and a little rest time. I’ve tested and tried this many times, and a baked salmon temp of 400F is perfect for browning on the outside and completely cooked to perfection, tongue-hugging flavor from this oily and meaty fish.
A really nice salmon is cooked well, but not overly well done to the point that it is dry and completely opaque on the inside that all the fat and juices are cooked out and it’s become dehydrated.
It is quite easy to overcook fish, resulting in tasteless and chewy meat. I’ve had it before at restaurants and it is so disappointing, not to mention money wasting.
When I’m eating salmon, it’s usually the focus of the entire meal, so it has to shine, be perfectly moist and tender, and make me want seconds.
Notes and Tips
Removing the salmon from the oven just before it seems to be too well done is going to help avoid over cooking.
The salmon should be just slightly browned on the outside, the richness and those healthy oils from the fish cascading and sizzling through the flaky layers.
Inside the salmon, the right hue of peachy orange and the inside middle, is almost a tad darker and glossy, so that during rest time the cook will be just right for well doneness.
How to Choose Salmon
When I’m not making miso salmon or spicy firecracker salmon, this is my quick go-to recipe.
This is an easy salmon recipe that can be made all the time, so part of picking the right salmon is a matter of convenience.
I like going to my local store and grabbing the freshest Atlantic Salmon filet that shows a nice balance of fat and meat. I look at the pack date to see what just arrived, or I ask the butcher.
You can see the white streaks in the salmon and that will add to the flavor, moistness, and reduce any need of extra oil in your recipe.
Try to get the salmon the same day you will cook it for the best results.
When it comes to picking salmon, here are a few tips to help you choose the best:
- Look for freshness: Fresh salmon should have a bright and vibrant color, ranging from pink to orange. Avoid salmon that looks dull or discolored.
- Check the smell: Fresh salmon should have a mild, oceanic scent. Definitely, fresh fish should not smell fishy at all.
- Examine the flesh: The flesh of fresh salmon should be firm and resilient when pressed gently with your finger. Avoid salmon with soft or mushy flesh.
- Consider the source: Opt for wild-caught salmon whenever possible, as it tends to have a better flavor and texture compared to farmed salmon. However, well-sourced and sustainably farmed salmon can also be a good choice.
- Ask for assistance: If you’re unsure or want more information, don’t hesitate to ask the fishmonger or butcher for guidance. They can provide valuable insights about the different types of salmon and their quality.
Can I use other Salmon?
For this recipe, I love fresh Atlantic Salmon. It’s very meaty, thick, and has lots of beautiful fat for bold flavor. Great for quick baking, broiling, pan frying, and bbq-ing.
There are also wild Sockeye salmon and King Salmon as similar fatty options for boldly flavored choices.
The time and temperature for this easy oven-roasted salmon are meant for the fattier varieties of salmon.
Is Salmon Healthy for you?
This simple salmon recipe is healthy and nutrient-dense. Omega-3s, protein-rich, and what I like to call meat-less…salmon hits all the points for good-for-you food that works with a body-mindful lifestyle.
This recipe uses minimal ingredients to focus on the salmon.
We want to taste the actual salmon, not overwhelm it with sauce and salt.
It also has a gluten-free option and is keto diet friendly with a few substitutions.
This is my go to as an “everyday” style easy salmon recipe that can be whipped up anytime and the salmon is versatile in ways to serve from over rice, with salad, or next to vegetables.
Ingredients
- Fresh Atlantic Salmon. 1 lb
- powdered garlic
- powdered ginger
- brown sugar
- soy sauce
- toasted sesame oil
- salt and pepper to taste
- vegetable oil
Equipment
For this recipe, I put the salmon straight into an oval Dutch Oven and into the oven.
You can also use parchment paper and a baking sheet.
Instructions
- No mincing or chopping is required! Just take the ingredients, mix in a little bowl, and rub all over the salmon.
- The baked salmon temp for the oven should be 400 F.
- Then place in the oven for 10-13 minutes and remove!
- Let the salmon rest, then serve.
As a tip, check the thick middle part before removing it, and if it is just a tad little darker orange, you can remove the salmon and let it rest, covered. The oils should be sizzling all around the salmon. It will cook through and be so tender and moist.
Yes, just use gluten-free soy sauce.
You can store this in a glass container in your refrigerator for a few days.
I especially love the salmon cold the next day, served over salad or even hot steaming rice where the steam naturally reheats the fish. You can also use the stove on low and slowly reheat.
I do not recommend reheating this in a microwave.
15 Min Easy Baked Salmon with Ginger Soy Rub
Equipment
- 1 wide oven pan or cast iron
Ingredients
- 1 lb Fresh Atlantic Salmon Filet
Rub Ingredients
- 2 tsp ginger powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 2 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- sea salt and pepper to taste
- vegetable oil to lightly oil the pan
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400F
- Make your rub by combining all the ingredients of ginger powder, garlic powder, brown sugar, soy sauce, and sesame oil all together. The rub should be pasty.
- Rub the top of the salmon all over with the mixture.
- Place the salmon in a lightly oiled oven pan or cast iron pan.
- Place in oven for 10-13 minutes. This recipe is based on 1lb fish so add or subtract time according to your fish size. You can check the middle of the fish to see that it is cooked, but just a tiny bit darker…then you can remove from the oven and let it rest while covered for additional 5 minutes.Add desired salt and pepper to taste.Serve with your favorite side and Enjoy!
Notes
- Garnish with scallions
- Teriyaki sauce or BBQ sauce
- Chinese chili garlic sauce
- Sawsawan Filipino-style vinegar dipping sauce
- Served over rice, on salad, or with veggies
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