Soothing Lemon Balm

This home-cooked Baked Salmon offers a no-fuss approach to creating juicy, flaky fish packed with zesty lemon and fresh garlic taste. Finished in only 20 minutes, this nutritious meal brings together basic ingredients with straightforward cooking techniques for a top-notch dish that works great for rushed evenings or fancy dinners alike.

What Makes This Dish Special

This salmon creation really shines because it's so straightforward and always turns out well. The mix of bright lemon, fresh garlic, and herbs works perfectly together while still letting the salmon's natural flavor come through. It's a flexible option that's both good for you and filling, with barely any prep work or cleanup needed.

Ingredients for Baked Salmon

• Main Ingredients:
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium lemon (half juiced, half sliced)
• Seasonings:
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and cracked black pepper
  • Fresh thyme or parsley
• Equipment Needed:
  • Large baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven

Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Put parchment paper on a big baking sheet.

Season the Salmon

Put the salmon pieces on the ready sheet. Add plenty of salt and pepper.

Make Garlic Sauce

Mix together olive oil, chopped garlic, Italian seasoning, and fresh lemon juice in a small bowl.

Prepare for Baking

Drizzle the sauce all over the salmon, making sure it's well coated. Place a lemon slice on each piece.

Bake to Perfection

Cook for 12-15 minutes until the salmon breaks apart easily. If you want, broil for 1-2 minutes to get a crispy top.

Cooking Secrets for Best Results

Pick salmon pieces that are the same thickness so they cook evenly. Let the salmon sit out a bit before cooking. Don't cook too long - the middle should still look a bit see-through. Wipe the fish dry before adding spices. Go for the best olive oil you can find for extra flavor.

Pin it

Tasty Pairing Ideas

Enjoy while hot alongside some oven-roasted veggies, steamed asparagus, or a crisp salad. Make it a full meal with quinoa or brown rice. You can add extra lemon pieces on the side. Try it with dips like tzatziki or dill sauce. Sprinkle some fresh herbs on top to make it look fancy.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Keep any extra salmon in a sealed container in your fridge for up to 3 days. Warm it up slowly in a 300°F oven so it doesn't dry out. You can also eat it cold in salads or sandwiches. It's best not to freeze it as it'll probably end up dry. You can make the sauce a day ahead if you want.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I replace fresh leaves with dried ones?

Of course! Use around 2 tablespoons of dried leaves instead of 20 fresh ones. The taste might vary slightly, but it'll still work well.

→ What else can I do with lemon balm?

Try tossing the leaves in salads, turning them into jelly, or even using them in wine like they did in ancient times.

→ Is it safe to drink lemon balm tea?

Yes, especially if you grow it yourself. Just be cautious with store-bought herbs since they aren't FDA-regulated.

→ How long should I let the leaves steep?

Let them soak in hot water for 10 minutes to get the best flavor and benefits.

→ What can I add to improve the taste?

Add a dash of honey for sweetness, and include lemon slices or fresh balm leaves for a touch of freshness.

Conclusion

This tea is a cozy, herbal drink made from fresh or dried lemon balm leaves. It's simple to prepare by just steeping the leaves in hot water. Known for its relaxing and digestion-friendly qualities, you can personalize it with honey or fresh lemon slices.