Description
This easy and quick baked salmon recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with a simple spice rub. Perfectly cooked in just 20 minutes, it yields tender, flaky salmon that’s full of flavor, making it an ideal healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Spice Mix
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 1½ teaspoons sweet paprika
- 1½ teaspoons garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Main Ingredient
- 1 (2-pound) salmon fillet
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position a rack in the center for even cooking.
- Combine the spices: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, kosher salt, sweet paprika, garlic powder, and freshly cracked black pepper to create the spice rub.
- Season the salmon: Place the salmon fillet skin side down on a rimmed baking sheet. Brush the surface with extra-virgin olive oil for moisture and to help the spices adhere.
- Apply the spice rub: Generously rub the combined spice mixture all over the top of the salmon until it is completely coated.
- Bake the salmon: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
Notes
- Adjust baking time based on the thickness of the salmon fillet to avoid overcooking.
- For extra crisp skin, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking if desired.
- Serve with lemon wedges or your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
- This recipe works well with other types of fish if salmon is unavailable.
- Use fresh spices for best flavor.
