Old Bay Salmon

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious way to bring the taste of the sea to your dinner table, you’re going to love this Old Bay Salmon recipe! This dish is not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this salmon will impress everyone without keeping you in the kitchen for hours.

I’ve always cherished recipes that strike a balance between simplicity and taste. The combination of Old Bay seasoning and fresh herbs makes every bite special, making it perfect for both casual dinners and festive occasions. Plus, it’s healthy and satisfying—what more could you ask for?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
• Flavorful Experience: The blend of spices creates a mouthwatering crust that enhances the natural taste of the salmon.
• Family-Friendly Dish: Even picky eaters will love this flavorful salmon, making it an ideal choice for family meals.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious.
• Versatile Ingredients: You probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry already!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients to make this delightful Old Bay Salmon. You won’t need anything fancy; just some good quality salmon and a few seasonings.

For the Salmon

• 1½ pounds salmon fillets (use 4 fillets)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (you can also use extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil)
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried dill weed
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different flavors or ingredients that suit your tastes.

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of salmon, try using chicken breasts or firm tofu instead!
• Add some zest: Sprinkle some lemon juice or lime juice over the top before serving for an extra zing.
• Mix up the herbs: Try using fresh herbs like thyme or basil if you have them on hand—freshness always elevates the dish!
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to give it some heat.

How to Make Old Bay Salmon

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 450˚F. This high temperature will help achieve that lovely crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and flaky.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Grease a baking sheet generously with cooking spray. Placing the salmon skin-side down helps keep it tender while roasting. Then, brush each fillet with olive oil; this will help all those flavorful spices stick perfectly!

Step 3: Mix Your Seasonings

In a small mixing bowl, combine Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, dill weed, and parsley. Mixing these spices creates an aromatic blend that enhances the salmon’s natural flavors.

Step 4: Season Your Fillets

Rub the spice mixture all around the top and sides of each fillet. This step is essential as it ensures every bite is packed with flavor—don’t be shy!

Step 5: Bake Your Salmon

Place your seasoned fillets in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when they flake easily with a fork or reach an internal temperature of 145˚F.

Step 6: Let It Rest

Once out of the oven, let your salmon rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the fish, keeping it moist and delicious!

With these easy steps, you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Old Bay Salmon! It’s sure to become a cherished meal in your home just like it has in mine.

Pro Tips for Making Old Bay Salmon

Making the perfect Old Bay Salmon is a breeze with a few helpful tips!

• Choose fresh salmon: Fresh salmon not only tastes better but also has a firmer texture, making it easier to handle and cook evenly.
• Don’t skip the olive oil: Brushing the fillets with olive oil ensures that the seasoning sticks well and helps achieve that beautiful golden crust during roasting.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the salmon to rest for a couple of minutes after baking enhances its flavor and texture, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices in your rub according to your taste preferences. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can give it an extra kick!
• Use parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze and prevents sticking, so you can focus on enjoying your meal.

How to Serve Old Bay Salmon

Serving Old Bay Salmon is an opportunity to get creative! This dish has a vibrant flavor profile that pairs beautifully with various accompaniments.

Garnishes

• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and complements the savory flavors beautifully.
• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or dill adds a pop of color and freshness, making it visually appealing as well as delicious.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots roasted until tender enhance both flavor and nutrition. Drizzle them with olive oil and season lightly for perfection.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich salmon.
• Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy alternative to mashed potatoes, this dish offers a comforting texture while remaining low in carbs. The garlic adds depth without overpowering the fish.
• Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans tossed with a little butter or olive oil provide a crisp texture that balances the flaky salmon perfectly.

Enjoy crafting your meal around this delightful Old Bay Salmon recipe! It’s not just about eating; it’s about creating an experience that you and your loved ones will cherish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Old Bay Salmon recipe is perfect for meal prep! It can be made in advance and stored for quick, healthy dinners throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your delicious salmon fresh and ready to enjoy.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover salmon in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.

Freezing

• Wrap individual salmon fillets tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped fillets in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C).
• Place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with foil to retain moisture.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave on medium power, but be cautious not to overcook.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about making this delightful Old Bay Salmon.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor of your Old Bay Salmon. Just remember to use approximately three times the amount of fresh herbs as you would dried ones.

How do I know when my Old Bay Salmon is done?

Your Old Bay Salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145˚F (63˚C).

Can I add other seasonings to this recipe?

Certainly! While Old Bay seasoning gives this salmon its distinctive flavor, feel free to mix in other spices like smoked paprika or lemon zest for added zing!

What should I serve with my Old Bay Salmon?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a light salad. The possibilities are endless!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this simple yet flavorful Old Bay Salmon recipe. It’s not only quick and easy but also packed with delightful flavors that everyone will love. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!