Old Bay Salmon

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner option, let me introduce you to my favorite recipe: Old Bay Salmon. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or even when you have family and friends over. The combination of the savory Old Bay seasoning with fresh salmon creates a taste that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare that you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

What makes this Old Bay Salmon special is not just its flavor but also its versatility. Whether you enjoy it with a side of roasted veggies or a fresh salad, this recipe adapts beautifully to any occasion. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: In just 25 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
• Family-friendly flavors: The mild taste of salmon paired with Old Bay seasoning appeals to everyone at the table, even picky eaters!
• Healthy and nutritious: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is a heart-healthy option that keeps everyone feeling good.
• Versatile serving options: Pair it with your favorite sides or use leftovers in salads or sandwiches for a delightful twist.
• Make-ahead potential: Prepare the spice mix in advance and marinate the salmon overnight for an even deeper flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking up this Old Bay Salmon is simple with just a handful of wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:

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)

For the Seasoning

• 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 not only delectable but also flexible! Here are some fun variations to keep things interesting:

• Add citrus zest: A little lemon or lime zest mixed into the seasoning can give your salmon a bright kick.
• Change up the herbs: Feel free to swap out dill and parsley for fresh basil or cilantro if those are more your style.
• Try different proteins: While salmon is fantastic, this seasoning works beautifully on chicken breasts or even firm tofu for a plant-based option.
• Incorporate vegetables: Add thinly sliced vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini on the baking sheet alongside the salmon for an all-in-one meal.

How to Make Old Bay Salmon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 450˚F. This high temperature will help achieve that crispy exterior while keeping the fish juicy inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Generously grease a baking sheet or pan with cooking spray. Place your salmon fillets skin-side down on the sheet and brush them with olive oil. This step ensures that the fish doesn’t stick and helps create a lovely golden crust.

Step 3: Make Your Spice Mixture

In a small mixing bowl, combine Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, dill weed, and parsley. Mix everything well so that all those wonderful flavors are evenly distributed. This blend will elevate your salmon to new heights!

Step 4: Season the Salmon

Rub the spice mixture generously over the top and sides of each fillet. Don’t be shy here—this is where all that flavor comes from! It’s important to coat them well so every bite bursts with goodness.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop those seasoned fillets in your preheated oven! Bake for about 10 minutes or until they flake easily with a fork. If you’re ever unsure about doneness, an instant-read thermometer should read 145˚F in the thickest part of the fish.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done, remove the salmon from the oven and let it stand for a couple of minutes before serving. This resting time allows juices to redistribute, resulting in moist fish that’s simply irresistible!

I hope you enjoy making this Old Bay Salmon as much as I do! It’s bound to become a family favorite in no time.

Pro Tips for Making Old Bay Salmon

Creating the perfect Old Bay salmon is simple, but a few pro tips can elevate your dish even more!

• Choose Fresh Salmon: Fresh salmon not only tastes better but also has a firmer texture. Look for bright, vibrant fillets with no fishy smell.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked salmon, an instant-read thermometer is your best friend. It takes the guesswork out of cooking and ensures your fish is always done right.
• Experiment with Seasoning: While Old Bay is delicious on its own, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or lemon zest for an extra kick. Customizing flavors makes the dish your own!
• Let it Rest: Allow the salmon to rest for a couple of minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and flavorful.
• Keep Skins On During Cooking: Cooking the salmon with skin on helps retain moisture and adds flavor. If you prefer skinless fillets, consider using parchment paper to prevent sticking.

How to Serve Old Bay Salmon

Serving your Old Bay salmon in style can make a weeknight dinner feel special! Here are some fun ideas to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors of the salmon and adds a refreshing touch.
• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or dill on top just before serving for a burst of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus spears with olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt before roasting until tender. The earthy flavor complements the salmon beautifully.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese (or vegan substitute) adds a nutritious crunch that pairs well with the richness of the fish.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli drizzled with lemon juice not only looks beautiful but also offers health benefits and balances out the meal.
• Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potato mash brings sweetness to your plate while providing fiber and vitamins; it’s a comforting side that everyone will love.

With these serving suggestions and tips, your Old Bay salmon will be not just dinner—it will be an experience everyone remembers! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Old Bay Salmon recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious and healthy meals throughout the week without spending too much time in the kitchen. You can easily prepare it in advance and store it for later!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the salmon to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap individual fillets tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped fillets in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C).
• Place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil to retain moisture.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Old Bay Salmon!

Can I use other seasonings instead of Old Bay seasoning?

Absolutely! While Old Bay adds a unique flavor, feel free to use your favorite spice blend or create your own using lemon zest, paprika, and thyme for a different twist.

What sides pair well with Old Bay Salmon?

Old Bay Salmon pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it alongside roasted potatoes or rice for a complete meal.

How do I know when my salmon is done cooking?

Salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145˚F. Using an instant-read thermometer can help ensure it’s cooked just right!

Can I make Old Bay Salmon ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the salmon fillets with the seasoning mix up to a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely! This recipe is great for meal prepping as it stores well and can be reheated easily without losing flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Old Bay Salmon recipe as much as I do! It’s not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations with me—happy cooking!