We’ve always been fans of dishes that blend simplicity with bold flavors, and our Conti’s Baked Salmon Recipe is no exception. Inspired by the iconic Filipino eatery, this hearty meal captures the essence of comfort food with its tender, flaky salmon and zesty seasonings.
It’s the perfect go-to for busy weeknights, offering a nutritious twist that’s easy to whip up in your own kitchen. We’ll guide you through the steps to create a restaurant-quality dish that impresses family and friends alike.
Ingredients
For our Conti’s Baked Salmon Recipe, we gather fresh, high-quality ingredients to create a nutritious and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Below, we list them in the order they are typically prepared and used, with specific measurements and prep notes for accuracy.
- Salmon fillets: 4 pieces (approximately 6 ounces each), fresh and deboned—ensure they are patted dry for even baking.
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, extra-virgin—for coating the salmon and adding a rich, silky texture.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced—freshly chopped to release its aromatic essence and enhance the savory notes.
- Lemon: 1 medium, juiced (yielding about 2 tablespoons)—provides a bright, tangy acidity that balances the fish’s richness.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, kosher—season to taste for optimal flavor enhancement.
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground—adds a subtle, peppery kick to complement the herbs.
- Fresh dill: 2 tablespoons, chopped—use for its vibrant, herbaceous flavor that evokes the original Conti’s style.
- Optional vegetables: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, and 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed—include if you want to add color and extra nutrients for a complete meal.
Tools and Equipment
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients for Conti’s Baked Salmon Recipe, let’s equip ourselves with the right tools and equipment to ensure a seamless and successful baking process. Having the proper items on hand not only streamlines preparation but also helps achieve that perfectly flaky, golden salmon every time.
Essential Tools List
We recommend the following tools and equipment, listed in the order they are typically used during preparation and cooking. This setup supports efficient workflow and maintains the dish’s integrity.
- Baking Sheet or Tray: A sturdy rimmed baking sheet is crucial for holding the salmon fillets securely and catching any juices, preventing mess in the oven.
- Oven: A standard preheated oven set to 400°F (204°C) is essential for even baking. Ensure yours is calibrated for accuracy to avoid overcooking.
- Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized glass or stainless steel mixing bowl for combining marinades or seasonings, allowing easy whisking without reactions from acidic ingredients like lemon juice.
- Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp chef’s knife paired with a stable cutting board for precisely chopping garlic, herbs, and vegetables, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measuring sets for ingredients like olive oil and salt, which help maintain the recipe’s balance of flavors.
- Aluminum Foil or Parchment Paper: Non-stick parchment paper or foil to line the baking sheet, promoting easy cleanup and preventing the salmon from sticking.
- Basting Brush (Optional): A silicone basting brush for applying marinades evenly, enhancing the salmon’s moisture and flavor if you’re opting for a glazed finish.
By using these tools, we can prepare our baked salmon efficiently and safely, elevating the home cooking experience to match the quality of a restaurant like Conti’s. Always prioritize clean and well-maintained equipment to optimize results.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through the straightforward steps to create Conti’s Baked Salmon Recipe. Follow our precise instructions to achieve a flaky, flavorful dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Prep
Before baking, we start by preparing the salmon and ingredients for optimal flavor. Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F to ensure even cooking. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture then place them in a mixing bowl.
Next, in the same bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, juice from 1 lemon, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh dill. Gently toss the salmon fillets in this mixture to coat them evenly allowing the flavors to infuse for about 5 minutes. If using optional vegetables like cherry tomatoes or asparagus, wash and chop them into bite-sized pieces and set aside on the cutting board.
Bake
With the salmon prepped, we move to the baking stage for a golden, moist result. Line your baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup then arrange the marinated salmon fillets skin-side down on the sheet. Scatter any prepared optional vegetables around the salmon for a complete meal.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking as this ensures the fish stays tender and juicy.
Serve
Once baked, we finish by serving the salmon hot for the best taste and texture. Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes to retain its juices. Use a spatula to transfer the fillets to plates garnishing with extra fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon for added zest.
Pair the dish with optional vegetables or a side of rice for a balanced meal and enjoy the restaurant-quality flavors of Conti’s Baked Salmon Recipe right at home.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Conti’s Baked Salmon Recipe even more convenient for busy schedules, we recommend preparing components in advance without compromising flavor or texture. This approach allows us to streamline the cooking process while ensuring a fresh, restaurant-quality meal every time.
Preparing the Marinade and Salmon
We can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours ahead to let flavors develop fully. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and chopped fresh dill. Pat the salmon fillets dry, then coat them evenly with the marinade. Store the marinated salmon in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for optimal freshness.
Prepping Vegetables and Garnishes
For recipes including optional vegetables like cherry tomatoes or asparagus, we suggest washing and chopping them in advance. Place the prepped vegetables in a separate airtight container in the fridge. This step saves valuable time during meal prep and keeps ingredients crisp. Remember to add them to the baking sheet just before cooking to maintain their vibrant color and nutrients.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If we want to assemble the full dish ahead, arrange the marinated salmon and vegetables on a lined baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. When ready to bake, simply uncover and proceed with the oven instructions from our earlier steps.
For longer storage, cooked salmon can be made ahead and refrigerated. Here’s a quick guide to timelines:
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marinated Salmon | Up to 24 hours | Airtight container in fridge | Enhances flavor; do not freeze |
| Prepped Vegetables | Up to 24 hours | Airtight container in fridge | Keeps crisp; avoid wilting |
| Fully Cooked Dish | Up to 2 days | Airtight container in fridge | Reheat gently to avoid drying |
To reheat, we preheat the oven to 350°F and warm the salmon for 8-10 minutes until it reaches 145°F internally. This ensures the fish remains moist and flavorful, making our Conti’s Baked Salmon Recipe a go-to for effortless, nutritious meals.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this take on Conti’s Baked Salmon Recipe
It’s a straightforward way to bring nutritious meals to your table
that rival any restaurant’s offerings
Try it for yourself and discover how it fits seamlessly into your routine
We’re confident it’ll become a staple in your kitchen repertoire
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Conti’s Baked Salmon Recipe?
Conti’s Baked Salmon Recipe is a simple, flavorful dish inspired by a popular Filipino restaurant. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, offering a nutritious meal with fresh salmon and easy ingredients. This recipe provides step-by-step instructions to create a restaurant-quality dish at home, featuring baked salmon with garlic, lemon, and herbs for a healthy, impressive result.
What ingredients are needed for Conti’s Baked Salmon?
The key ingredients include fresh salmon fillets, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and fresh dill. Optional additions like cherry tomatoes and asparagus boost flavor and nutrition. Use high-quality, fresh components for the best taste. This combination creates a balanced, easy-to-make meal that’s both tasty and wholesome.
What tools are required to make Conti’s Baked Salmon?
You’ll need a sturdy baking sheet, preheated oven, mixing bowl, sharp knife and cutting board, and measuring cups and spoons. Optional items like aluminum foil or parchment paper help with cleanup. These tools ensure even baking and streamline preparation, making it simple to achieve professional results at home.
How do I prepare and bake Conti’s Baked Salmon?
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Pat salmon dry, then marinate with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and dill. Arrange on a lined baking sheet with optional veggies and bake for 12-15 minutes until it flakes easily. Serve hot, garnished with dill and lemon, paired with rice or veggies for a complete meal.
Can I make Conti’s Baked Salmon ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the salmon up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container. Prep vegetables separately to keep them fresh. For full assembly, refrigerate and reheat gently to maintain moisture and flavor. This makes it ideal for busy schedules without losing quality.
Is Conti’s Baked Salmon suitable for busy weeknights?
Absolutely, it’s quick and easy, ready in under 30 minutes of active time. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a nutritious option for weeknights. Plus, make-ahead tips allow you to prepare components in advance, helping you enjoy a flavorful, restaurant-style meal even on the busiest days.