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–+ servings
Two perfectly cooked salmon fillets with a crispy, seasoned crust, garnished with fresh herbs, ready to be served as part of easy 30 min salmon recipes.

Smoked Paprika Baked Salmon

A simple and flavorful baked salmon recipe with a smoky paprika rub.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 fillets
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds salmon fillets wild caught if possible
  • Olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 0.5 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 0.25 teaspoon cumin

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Aluminum foil or parchment paper
  • Small bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Let the salmon come to room temperature or brine it.
  2. Place a large sheet of aluminum foil or parchment paper on a baking sheet. Brush it with olive oil.
  3. Pat each salmon fillet dry and place it on the prepared baking sheet, skin side down. Brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt.
  4. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and cumin. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
  5. Bake for 10 to 16 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon is done when it is tender and pink in the center (internal temperature between 125°F to 130°F). A 1-inch thick fillet typically takes about 15 minutes.
  6. For a crispy top, if desired, turn on the broiler for the last 2 minutes of cooking, when the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 115°F.

Notes

Wild-caught salmon is recommended for its flavor and nutritional benefits. Brining can help keep the salmon moist.

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