Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows the salmon to cook through evenly without drying out.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. If using foil, you might want to give it a light coat of cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Prepare the Salmon
Rinse the Coho salmon fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. It’s important to remove as much moisture as possible to help the skin get crispy.
Step 4: Season the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down. Brush each fillet lightly with olive oil. This helps the seasoning stick to the fish and adds moisture.
Season each fillet with salt and pepper to taste. The amount of seasoning can vary based on personal preference, but a generous pinch of each is a good starting point.
Step 5: Bake the Salmon
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake the salmon for about 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. The exact time can vary based on the thickness of the fillets.
It’s better to check the salmon a minute or two early rather than overcook it, as salmon can go from perfectly moist to dry quite quickly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the salmon from the oven. If you like, you can squeeze a little lemon juice over the fillets for extra zing.
Garnish with lemon slices and a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve immediately, while hot and flaky.
This basic Coho salmon recipe is versatile, serving as a great foundation for various flavors and side dishes. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, or marinades to suit your taste. Enjoy your meal!
