Old Bay Salmon

Old Bay Salmon is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of salmon and the iconic seasoning profile of Old Bay. This easy roast salmon recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, providing a quick yet impressive meal that everyone will love. The blend of dried herbs and spices elevates the salmon, making it a standout on your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Flavorful: The unique blend of Old Bay seasoning with garlic and dill creates a mouthwatering flavor.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this salmon recipe supports a balanced diet.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with a variety of sides like rice, vegetables, or salads for different meals.
• Impressive Presentation: With its vibrant colors and delicious aroma, this dish is sure to impress guests.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here are some key items you’ll need when making Old Bay Salmon.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet or pan
• Cooking spray
• Mixing bowl
• Brush or spoon for oiling

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet or pan: Ensures even cooking and makes cleanup easy.
• Cooking spray: Prevents the salmon from sticking to the baking sheet for effortless serving.
• Mixing bowl: Aids in combining spices effectively before applying them to the fish.

Ingredients

This simple and easy roast salmon recipe features fillets seasoned with dried herbs, spices, and Old Bay seasoning, and then quickly roasted in the oven for a superior flavor and texture.

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

How to Make Old Bay Salmon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450˚F. This high temperature helps achieve perfectly roasted salmon with a slightly crispy exterior.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Generously grease a baking sheet or pan with cooking spray. Place the salmon fillets skin side down on the baking sheet. Brush them with olive oil to keep them moist during roasting.

Step 3: Mix the Seasoning

In a small mixing bowl, combine Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, dill weed, and parsley. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

Step 4: Season the Salmon

Add the spice mixture to the fillets. Rub it all around the top and sides of each piece to distribute the seasonings evenly for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 10 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. To ensure it’s perfectly cooked, you can also check its internal temperature; it should reach 145˚F.

Step 6: Let Stand Before Serving

Remove from the oven and let stand for a couple of minutes before serving. This resting period allows juices to redistribute within the fish, enhancing its tenderness. Enjoy your delicious Old Bay Salmon!

How to Serve Old Bay Salmon

Serving Old Bay salmon can elevate your dinner experience. Here are some creative ideas to enjoy this flavorful dish.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly season with lemon juice and olive oil for a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until crispy for a satisfying crunch.

Over a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Green Salad: Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for a fresh side.
• Spinach Salad: Incorporate sliced strawberries and walnuts for a sweet and nutty flavor combination.

Accompanied by Starch

• Quinoa Pilaf: Fluff with herbs and spices to complement the salmon’s seasoning.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic enhance the richness of the fish.

With Dipping Sauces

• Tartar Sauce: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and tang.
• Lemon Dill Sauce: Whip up a quick sauce using Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and dill for a zesty kick.

How to Perfect Old Bay Salmon

To achieve the best results with your Old Bay salmon, consider these useful tips.

• Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets provide better flavor than frozen ones. Look for vibrant color and firm texture.
• Marinate Before Cooking: Allowing the salmon to marinate in olive oil and Old Bay seasoning for 30 minutes can enhance its flavor.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your salmon while it bakes. Overcooking can lead to dryness; aim for 10-15 minutes depending on thickness.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the salmon to rest for a couple of minutes after removing it from the oven keeps it moist and flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Old Bay Salmon

Pairing side dishes with your Old Bay salmon can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options.

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any juices from the salmon; add herbs for extra flavor.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and balances the richness of the fish; consider using vinegar-based dressing.
3. Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice pilaf with herbs complements the spices in the fish nicely.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries offer sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory salmon.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds summer freshness; brush with butter before serving.
6. Couscous Salad: Light and fluffy couscous mixed with vegetables is a great way to add color to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Old Bay Salmon, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes to avoid to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Using too much seasoning: It’s tempting to add more Old Bay seasoning, but this can overpower the salmon’s natural flavor. Stick to the recommended amount for a balanced taste.
• Not preheating the oven: If you skip preheating, your salmon might cook unevenly. Always preheat your oven to 450˚F for the best results.
• Overcooking the salmon: Cooking salmon for too long makes it dry. Monitor closely and remove it when it flakes easily or reaches 145˚F.
• Skipping the oil: Olive oil adds moisture and helps the seasoning stick. Don’t skip this step; brush your fillets generously with oil.
• Not letting it rest: Allowing the salmon to sit for a couple of minutes after baking lets the juices redistribute. This step enhances flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Old Bay Salmon in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Old Bay Salmon

• Place cooled salmon in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Old Bay Salmon

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350˚F. Place salmon on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals until warmed through, usually about 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Old Bay Salmon that may help you along the way.

What is Old Bay seasoning?

Old Bay seasoning is a blend of spices, including celery salt, paprika, and black pepper, commonly used to season seafood dishes.

How do I know when my salmon is done?

Salmon is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145˚F.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes! Fresh herbs like dill and parsley can enhance the flavor even more. Just double the quantity since dried herbs are more concentrated.

What sides pair well with Old Bay Salmon?

Pair this dish with roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Old Bay Salmon is perfect for meal prep as it reheats well and can be served with various sides throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Old Bay Salmon is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful and satisfying. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different spices or sides based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try next time you’re looking for a quick yet delicious dinner option!