Salmon is a versatile and flavorful fish that can be cooked in various ways, but if you’re wondering how long to cook salmon at 400 degrees in the oven, look no further. In this article, we’ll share a simple baked salmon recipe that will give you tender, delicious, and flaky salmon fillets in no time.
The Best Temperature to Bake Salmon in the Oven
When it comes to cooking salmon, 400 degrees Fahrenheit is one of the best temperatures to use. It ensures that the fish stays tender and flavorful. Cooking the salmon until the internal temperature reaches 135 degrees Fahrenheit and then allowing it to rest will result in perfectly baked salmon with an ideal temperature of 140-145 degrees Fahrenheit. This resting period allows the flavors to develop and the fish to become even more delectable.
How Long to Bake Salmon at 400 Degrees
The cooking time for salmon depends on the size of the fillets. As a general rule, one pound of salmon will take approximately 15 minutes to bake to medium (145 degrees Fahrenheit). For smaller fillets weighing around 5-7 ounces, the cooking time is typically 11-12 minutes. If you’re working with a whole piece of salmon, the cooking time can range from 40 to 60 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish.
Ingredients Needed for Baked Salmon
To make this baked salmon recipe, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:
- Salmon: You can use individual cut salmon fillets or one large piece of salmon.
- Olive oil: Helps cook the salmon to perfection.
- Lemon juice: Adds a fresh, tangy flavor to the fish.
- Salt and pepper: These simple seasonings are all you need to bring out the natural flavors of the salmon.
How to Cook Salmon in the Oven at 400°F
Now let’s dive into the step-by-step process of cooking salmon in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit:
Step one: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and spray it with non-stick cooking spray. Place the salmon on the prepared pan, skin side down.
Step two: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are evenly coated. For an extra pop of flavor, feel free to add a little extra salt and pepper.
Step three: Bake the salmon for about 12-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the temperature to come up to 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
Recipe Tips
- Before cooking, let your salmon sit out at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly.
- Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets.
- Thicker cuts of salmon are harder to overcook, so you can have peace of mind.
- To ensure the salmon is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer and insert it into the thickest part of the fish.
- I recommend checking the internal temperature after 12 minutes of cooking to see if it needs additional baking time.
- If you prefer a richer flavor, you can substitute olive oil with 1 tablespoon of melted butter.
- Don’t hesitate to experiment with various sauces like dill sauce or butter sauce to enhance the taste of your salmon.
What to Serve with Salmon
Salmon pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as asparagus, salad, or potatoes. If you’re looking for inspiration, check out our list of 31 side dishes for salmon to find the perfect accompaniment for your meal.
How to Store Baked Salmon
If you have leftovers, you can store the salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of your baked salmon even after the meal is over.
FAQs
If you have any questions about this easy salmon recipe, please leave a comment, and we’ll be happy to assist you.
More Easy Seafood Recipes
If you’re a seafood lover, check out these other easy seafood recipes:
- Salmon dip: A simple and creamy dip made with canned salmon.
- Salmon salad: Similar to tuna salad, this salmon salad is a great option for lunch.
- Shrimp scampi: Try this copycat Olive Garden shrimp scampi recipe.
- 44 Shrimp recipes: Explore a variety of delicious shrimp recipes.
For more mouthwatering recipes and inspiration, visit Ekilove today!
