This Baked Salmon with Garlic Mayo is a treat! The salmon turns tender and flaky, while the creamy garlic mayo adds a tasty kick. It’s so easy to make, yet feels fancy!
I love how the buttery taste of the fish mixes with the garlic. It’s like a party on your plate. Sometimes, I serve it with a side of veggies for a colorful meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are perfect. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using skinless salmon. For budget-friendly choices, try frozen salmon, which can be as tasty when cooked properly.
Mayonnaise: Regular mayo gives a great creamy flavor, but you can swap it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option or plant-based mayo if you’re dairy-free. I’ve tried both alternatives, and they work beautifully!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best, offering a fragrant punch. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too, just reduce the amount to about 1/2 teaspoon.
Dill: Fresh dill gives a vibrant taste. If you don’t have it, dried dill can substitute well. I often double the dried amount for an intense flavor, but it can be a bit stronger, so adjust according to your taste.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is ideal, adding brightness to the dish. You can also use vinegar for acidity if lemons aren’t available, but it will change the flavor slightly.
How Can I Ensure My Salmon Comes Out Perfectly Cooked?
Perfectly cooked salmon is all about timing and temperature. Preheating your oven well is essential. Salmon cooks quite fast, so it’s crucial to check it around the 20-minute mark.
- When baking, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Use a food thermometer if you’re unsure.
- Look for the fish to flake easily with a fork; it will be opaque in the center.
- If you like a bit of crunch on top, broil the salmon for 2-3 minutes after baking!
How to Make Baked Salmon with Garlic Mayo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 1.5 pounds salmon fillet
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)
For the Garlic Mayo:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious baked salmon takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and healthy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your salmon cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will make cleanup easy later and help the salmon cook without sticking. Place the salmon fillet on the sheet, skin-side down.
3. Make the Garlic Mayo:
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Give it a taste—feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your liking!
4. Spread the Mixture:
Take your garlic mayo and spread it evenly over the top of the salmon fillet. Make sure to cover it well; this will add lots of flavor while it bakes!
5. Bake the Salmon:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is fully cooked through.
6. Add Lemon Slices:
If you’d like a zesty kick, add the lemon slices on top of the salmon during the last 5 minutes of baking. This will infuse the salmon with a fresh lemon flavor!
7. Let it Rest:
When your salmon is done baking, carefully remove it from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing—it helps keep the juices in!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the salmon, serve it warm, and garnish with any extra lemon slices and fresh dill if you like. Enjoy your delicious homemade baked salmon with garlic mayo!
Can I Use a Different Type of Fish for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute salmon with other firm fish like cod, halibut, or even trout. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thinner fish might need less time in the oven. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!
How to Store Leftover Baked Salmon?
Leftover baked salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave for a few seconds until just heated through.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt for a healthier option or sour cream for a tangy alternative. Both will provide a similar creaminess and can be flavored with garlic and dill just like the original recipe. Adjust the quantities to fit your taste!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the garlic mayo mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just spread it on the salmon before baking. However, it’s best to bake the salmon fresh for optimal taste and texture!
