Ingredients
Salmon
- 1 (2-pound) whole salmon fillet (skin-on preferred)
Seasoning & Sauce
- 3 tablespoons melted butter (or olive oil)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay out a large piece of aluminum foil on a rimmed baking sheet and place the salmon fillet on the foil skin side down with the pink flesh side facing up. Fold and crimp the edges of the foil around the salmon to create a small ‘boat’ that will hold in the juices while baking.
- Season: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and minced garlic. Brush about half of this garlic butter mixture evenly over the salmon. In another bowl, mix together the brown sugar, Italian seasoning, ground paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning blend evenly over the salmon, then drizzle the remaining garlic butter on top to coat the fillet thoroughly.
- Bake: Place the prepared salmon in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 22 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. Optionally, halfway through baking, baste the salmon with its own juices to keep it moist. Once baked to preference, remove from oven and allow the salmon to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let juices redistribute.
Notes
- Baking time varies: 15 minutes for medium doneness (about 125°F internal temperature) and up to 22 minutes for well done (around 145°F).
- Using foil helps lock in moisture making the salmon succulent.
- Skin-on fillets prevent the fish from drying out and add extra flavor.
- You can substitute olive oil for melted butter for a lighter version.
- Letting the salmon rest after baking ensures a moist and tender texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
