Why Make This Recipe
Baked Keto Salmon is not only delicious but also very healthy. This recipe is perfect for anyone following a keto diet, as it is low in carbs and packed with Omega-3 fatty acids. Salmon is known for its health benefits, including improving heart health and reducing inflammation. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and makes for a great weeknight dinner!
How to Make Baked Keto Salmon
Ingredients:
- Salmon Fillets: 4 (6-ounce) fillets, skin-on or skinless
- Avocado Oil or Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Sea Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Onion Powder: ½ teaspoon
- Full-Fat Sour Cream: 1 cup (ensure it’s full-fat for the best texture and keto macros)
- Fresh Dill: ¼ cup, finely chopped
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed
- Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This step helps with cleanup and prevents sticking.
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If you are using frozen salmon, make sure it is fully thawed. Pat all the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This will help get a nice sear while preventing the fish from steaming.
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Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet, leaving space between them. If you have skin-on fillets, place them skin-side down.
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Drizzle the avocado or olive oil over the tops of the fillets and coat them evenly.
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In a small bowl, combine sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle this mixture over each fillet generously for the best flavor.
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While the oven preheats, prepare the sauce. In a medium bowl, mix together full-fat sour cream, chopped fresh dill, fresh lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
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Cover the sauce and refrigerate while the salmon bakes. Chilling helps the flavors blend well.
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Place the baking sheet in the center of the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Cooking time varies with the thickness of the fillets. Salmon is done when it flakes easily and is opaque. For perfect doneness, use an instant-read thermometer for a temperature between 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare to medium.
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Once cooked, let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist.
How to Serve Baked Keto Salmon
Serve this delicious salmon with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. You can also drizzle extra sauce over the top for added flavor. It pairs well with low-carb sides like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
How to Store Baked Keto Salmon
To store leftover salmon, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze the salmon, but make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Baked Keto Salmon
- Make sure your salmon is dry before seasoning to get a better sear.
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it really helps the flavors come together.
- Feel free to customize the seasoning to your taste; adding lemon zest can give it a fresh twist.
Variation
For a different flavor, try adding some spices like paprika or cumin to the seasoning mix. You can also substitute fresh dill with other herbs like parsley or cilantro.
FAQs
1. Can I use skinless salmon fillets for this recipe?
Yes, both skin-on and skinless fillets work well. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if necessary.
2. How can I tell when the salmon is fully cooked?
Salmon is fully cooked when it is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should read between 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare to medium.
3. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it.