Entree: Heard Island and McDonald Islands – Baked Atlantic Salmon (Oven-baked Atlantic salmon fillets seasoned with lemon, garlic, and herbs)

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 10 min

Cook 15 min

Additional 10 min

Total 30 min

Ingredients

- 4 salmon fillets, approx. 6 oz (170 g) each, skin-on or skinless
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
- 2 tbsp (30 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 9 g)
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp (5 ml) lemon zest
- 2 tbsp (8 g) chopped fresh dill or parsley
- 1 tsp (6 g) kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp (1 g) freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp (1 g) smoked paprika or sweet paprika (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil a baking dish.
2. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Place fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet or dish, spaced slightly apart.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped dill (or parsley), salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
4. Spoon or brush the lemon-garlic herb mixture evenly over each fillet, ensuring the tops are well coated.
5. Let the fillets sit at room temperature for 10 minutes while the oven finishes preheating to take the chill off and allow flavors to meld.
6. Bake in the preheated oven until the salmon is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, about 12–15 minutes for 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick fillets; thicker fillets may need 15–18 minutes.
7. Remove from oven and let rest 2 minutes. Spoon any pan juices over the fillets.
8. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and an extra sprinkle of fresh herbs alongside your preferred starch and vegetables.