Why hello there, may I impress you with my fancy-looking Baked Salmon? Whether you need a fast, healthy dinner, a meal to wow the crowd, or a simple protein that you can enjoy tonight and eat leftover the next day, this is THE baked salmon recipe for you!
I spent years avoiding buying salmon because I thought it would be too complicated to make, or that worse yet, I’d mess it up and ruin a beautiful piece of fish.
This baked salmon was the very first salmon I learned to cook with confidence. I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve made it since.
It’s become the base of countless easy, delectable salmon recipes like Grilled Salmon in Foil, and it is still a meal I make often, both when I’m cooking for two (Ben and myself) or for a crowd.
This baked salmon has dozens and dozens of glowing reviews and has been viewed millions of times.
Without further ado: what I (and many of you!) are convinced is the very best baked salmon recipe in the world!
Rarely am I so rewarded for so little effort as when I make easy baked salmon. This method is dead simple, but so delicious and so good for you too.
Can you freeze cooked salmon after it’s been refrigerated overnight? Cooked salmon can be stored in the fridge for about three to four days. To extend the shelf life, place it in an airtight container, or wrap in heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic wrap. You can also freeze cooked salmon in freezer bags.
Health Benefits of Salmon
- Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and decrease risk factors for diseases.
- It’s a great source of protein, potassium, and selenium, a mineral that protects bone health, improves thyroid function, and reduces the risk of cancer.
- Salmon can also help reduce the risk of heart disease, aid in weight control, and protect brain health.*
Ideas for Leftovers and Reheating
Cooked salmon can be eaten the next day!
- My favorite ways to enjoy leftover cooked salmon leftover are on top of a salad (I eat it cold or let it come to room temperature first), scrambled with eggs, or mixed into a simple pasta. You could also use it in this recipe for Salmon Pasta.
- Store cooked baked salmon in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 days.
- If you’d like to reheat the salmon, be slow and gentle so that the salmon doesn’t dry out. I recommend reheating individual portions, either in the microwave on low power, or in a skillet.
- To reheat in a skillet: Let the salmon come to room temperature. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium. Once it is hot, add the salmon and a splash of water, then immediately cover it. Let the salmon steam, just until it is heated through, about 2 to 4 minutes.
- To reheat in the microwave: Let the salmon come to room temperature. Gently warm on medium-low power, just until warmed through.
How to Store Cooked Salmon and Freeze It Properly
FAQ
Can you freeze salmon in aluminum foil?
What’s the best way to freeze cooked salmon?
Can you store cooked salmon in foil?
Can I freeze salmon after it has been cooked?
Can you freeze smoked salmon?
Once it is opened, make sure to handle and store it properly, whether in the original package or in plastic wrap. To freeze it, cover the salmon slices completely from the air to prevent dryness. You can freeze smoked salmon for 4-6 months; after 6 months the salmon will start to lose texture and taste.
Is fresh salmon safe to eat?
Yes, salmon is a source of omega 3, the fatty acid is responsible for acting in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, making the heart strong and healthy. Just be careful to analyze the supplier to make sure it doesn’t have any contamination.
Can You bake salmon in foil?
The one major rule of baking salmon in foil is not to overcook the fish. Baking salmon in foil or parchment paper does give a little leeway because the foil locks in moisture, but you want to pull it out when it is almost but not quite done at the thickest part.
Can cooked salmon be frozen?
To ensure that the cooked salmon retain their texture and flavor, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil and place them into a freezer bag before freezing them. Properly stored, cooked salmon will last for 6 months in the freezer. Does Cooked Salmon Freeze Well? Cooked salmon freeze extremely well if it’s properly stored.