Oven-baked salmon is flaky, juicy and simply tastier – 1 ingredient

Salmon is one of those meals people keep coming back to when they want something quick, easy and still really tasty. It’s simple to cook, doesn’t need loads of ingredients and usually turns out well every time. Most people stick to the usual mix of lemon, butter and a bit of seasoning, which works perfectly fine.

But there’s a small tweak experts say can make a difference, especially if you want your salmon to come out extra juicy and full of flavour. The recipe, shared by cooking experts at Delish, has become a go-to for many home cooks for exactly that reason.

It’s quick to prepare, easy to follow and doesn’t leave you with loads of washing up afterwards. And people who have tried it seem to agree it’s worth it.

One person said: “Tried this recipe last night and it really is delish! It’s only my husband and me, so I adjusted the recipe accordingly.

“Followed direction exactly. Salmon was flaky and very flavorful. My husband loved this recipe and said it is a keeper. Will definitely make this again.”

Another added: “This is delicious! I usually pan-fry my salmon, but when I saw this recipe, I just had to make this presentation. It worked! Absolutely perfect!”

The extra ingredient that makes the difference is honey. It might not be the first thing you think of when cooking salmon, but it works really well here.

Experts at Delish explain that honey helps thicken the sauce while adding a slight sweetness that balances the rich flavour of the fish.

When mixed with butter, garlic and herbs, it creates a glaze that keeps everything moist while it cooks.

The method itself couldn’t be easier. You start by slicing lemons thinly and laying them across a lined baking tray, then place the salmon on top.

A mixture of melted butter, garlic, honey and herbs is poured over the fish so it’s evenly coated. As it bakes, the flavours come together and soak into the salmon.

It’s best cooked at around 180C (350F) for roughly 25 minutes, depending on the size of the fillet.

You’ll know it’s ready when it flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque all the way through.

For accuracy, the internal temperature should reach about 63C (145F).

Lining the tray with foil and parchment paper also makes a big difference, as it keeps the juices in and makes cleaning up much easier.

The full recipe is below.

• 2 lemons, thinly sliced
• 1 large skin-on salmon fillet (about 3lb)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 180C (350F). Line a baking tray with foil, then parchment paper. Add the lemon slices in a single layer.
2. Place the salmon on top and season with salt and black pepper.
3. Mix the garlic, melted butter, honey, oregano and thyme in a bowl. Pour it evenly over the salmon.
4. Fold the foil and parchment loosely around the fish to keep the juices in.
5. Bake for around 25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily.
6. Grill for 4 to 6 minutes at the end if you want a slightly golden finish.
7. Serve with chopped parsley on top.

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