Are you looking for a simple and delicious way to prepare salmon? Look no further! Chef Jenn’s Salmon Rub is the secret ingredient that takes baked salmon to the next level. With a combination of sweet and savory spices, this spice rub creates a mouthwatering glaze that will have you coming back for seconds.
The Perfect 30-Minute Dinner
Baked Salmon is the ideal choice for a quick and healthy dinner any night of the week. In just under 30 minutes, you can have a flavorful and nutritious meal on the table. The best part? There’s no marinating required, and you don’t need any special ingredients. It’s a straightforward recipe that yields outstanding results every time.
Unleashing the Flavor with Chef Jenn’s Spice Rub
Just like Chef Jenn’s recipe for Pan-Seared Tilapia, the key to success lies in the spice rub. This rub combines a medley of savory spices such as paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne, along with brown sugar and lime zest. The result is a delectable sweet and savory glaze that perfectly enhances the natural flavors of the salmon.
During baking, the brown sugar caramelizes on the exterior of the fish and infuses it with a subtle sweetness, beautifully balancing the spiciness of the cayenne. The outcome is simply divine.
Cooking Instructions
Preparing this baked salmon couldn’t be easier. Just follow these four simple steps:
- Begin by mixing the spices and brown sugar to create the salmon spice rub.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and generously coat them with the spice rub. Ensure that both sides of the fillets are well covered.
- Place the rubbed salmon fillets onto a lined baking dish, which will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- Bake the salmon until it reaches an internal temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure a moist and tender final result.
To further enhance the flavors, let the salmon rest for five minutes after removing it from the oven. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the fillets for an extra citrusy kick, using the same limes you zested for the rub. Serve immediately for best results.
Achieving Perfectly Cooked Salmon
Wondering how to tell when your salmon is perfectly cooked? The ideal temperature for serving salmon is 145 degrees Fahrenheit. To ensure accuracy, use a digital thermometer to measure the internal temperature. Once the salmon reaches 140 degrees, remove it from the oven and tent it with foil. The residual heat will raise the temperature to perfection within minutes.
Side Dishes That Complement the Flavors
Pair your baked salmon with delightful side dishes that complement the flavors and elevate your meal. Here are a few favorites:
- Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice
- Instant Pot Baked Sweet Potatoes
- Roasted Asparagus
- Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
These sides perfectly harmonize with the salmon and spice rub, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Explore More Seafood Recipes
If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll definitely want to try some of Chef Jenn’s other mouthwatering recipes:
- Lemon Garlic Baked Cod
- Honey Garlic Salmon Sheet Pan Meal
- Easy Fish Tacos
- Baked Fish Sticks
- Blackened Mahi Mahi
- Easy Pan-Seared Tilapia
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I hope you enjoy cooking and savoring this Sweet and Spicy Baked Salmon recipe as much as I do. If you have any comments or reviews, please feel free to share them below. Please note that this recipe was originally shared in 2020 but has been updated in 2023.