Easy & Quick Old Bay Roasted Salmon

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Old Bay Roasted Salmon: Simple, Flavorful, and Perfectly Tender

If you love the taste of perfectly roasted salmon with a bold, savory kick, Old Bay Roasted Salmon is a must-try. This recipe combines the natural richness of salmon with the iconic flavors of Old Bay seasoning, creating a dish that’s packed with flavor yet incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep for the week.

The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity. A light drizzle of olive oil, a generous sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning, and a quick roast in the oven are all it takes to produce juicy, flaky salmon with a slightly crispy, flavorful crust. Serve with your favorite sides, and you have a wholesome, balanced, and impressive meal in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and effortless – Ready in about 25 minutes from start to finish.
  • Bold flavor – Old Bay seasoning enhances the natural taste of salmon without overpowering it.
  • Moist and tender – Roasting locks in juices for perfectly flaky salmon.
  • Healthy and balanced – High in protein, omega-3s, and paired with nutrient-rich sides.
  • Versatile meal – Works with rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salmon

  • 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces / 170 g each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra depth)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Optional Additions

  • Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
  • Sliced vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for roasting alongside salmon
  • A light drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Salmon

  1. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and promotes even roasting.
  2. Brush each fillet lightly with olive oil to enhance browning and flavor.
  3. Sprinkle Old Bay seasoning evenly over each fillet, then add garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Roast the Salmon

  1. Place the seasoned fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if the skin is on.
  2. Roast in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness. Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

4. Optional Roasted Vegetables

  1. While the salmon roasts, toss your choice of vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. Spread them on a separate baking sheet or around the salmon fillets if space allows. Roast for 15–20 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.

5. Serve

Remove salmon from the oven and let it rest for 1–2 minutes. Transfer to plates, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve with lemon wedges. Pair with roasted vegetables, grains, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Old Bay Roasted Salmon

  • Choose fresh, high-quality salmon – Wild-caught or farm-raised, as long as it’s fresh and firm.
  • Don’t overcook – Salmon cooks quickly; check it at the 12-minute mark to avoid dryness.
  • Even seasoning – Pat the fillets dry first and brush lightly with oil so the Old Bay seasoning sticks well.
  • Add vegetables – Roast vegetables alongside salmon for a convenient, one-pan meal.
  • Optional glaze – A light honey or maple drizzle before serving adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory seasoning.

Serving Suggestions

Old Bay Roasted Salmon pairs beautifully with:

  • Grains – Fluffy rice, quinoa, or couscous absorb the juices and flavor.
  • Vegetables – Roasted asparagus, green beans, or zucchini add color, texture, and nutrients.
  • Salads – A fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette complements the salmon perfectly.
  • Potatoes – Roasted baby potatoes or mashed sweet potatoes make a hearty side.

Creative Variations

  1. Spicy Old Bay Salmon – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the seasoning for a gentle heat.
  2. Citrus Twist – Squeeze fresh orange or lime juice over the salmon before roasting to brighten flavors.
  3. Garlic Herb Salmon – Mix minced garlic and fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or parsley with olive oil and brush over the fillets.
  4. Foil Packet Version – Roast salmon in individual foil packets with vegetables and a pat of butter for a juicy, steam-infused flavor.
  5. Parmesan Crusted Salmon – Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the fillets before roasting for a crunchy, savory topping.

Meal Prep and Storage

  • Refrigeration – Store leftover salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating – Reheat gently in the oven or microwave with a splash of water to maintain moisture.
  • Freezing – Cooked salmon can be frozen for up to 2 months. Freeze in portions with seasoning but without lemon or fresh herbs for best results.
  • Make-ahead tip – Season salmon in advance and store in the fridge for up to 12 hours; roast when ready to eat.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Salmon – High in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart, brain, and eye health.
  • Olive oil – Provides healthy fats that aid in nutrient absorption and flavor.
  • Old Bay seasoning – Adds flavor with minimal calories.
  • Vegetables – Optional roasted vegetables contribute fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

This dish is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a flavorful, nutrient-dense, and balanced meal that’s simple to prepare.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Bold, classic flavor – Old Bay seasoning delivers a savory, slightly spicy, and aromatic punch that complements the richness of salmon.
  • Moist, flaky salmon – Roasting at a high temperature locks in natural juices for perfect texture.
  • Versatile and customizable – Add herbs, citrus, or vegetables to suit your taste preferences.
  • Quick and low-effort – Minimal prep, easy cleanup, and ready in under 30 minutes.

This combination of speed, flavor, and simplicity makes Old Bay Roasted Salmon a reliable weeknight favorite or an impressive dish for guests.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

  • Family-style serving – Place fillets on a platter with roasted vegetables and grains for self-serve dining.
  • Elegant plating – Arrange salmon on individual plates, drizzle with pan juices, and garnish with fresh herbs or lemon slices.
  • Optional accompaniments – Serve with a light vinaigrette, pickled vegetables, or steamed greens to balance richness.
  • Side pairings – Couscous, quinoa, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad make a well-rounded, satisfying meal.

Final Thoughts

Old Bay Roasted Salmon is a perfect combination of bold flavor, healthy nutrition, and simplicity. The rich, flaky salmon paired with the savory, aromatic seasoning makes for a dish that’s both indulgent and wholesome.

Whether for a busy weeknight dinner, a casual gathering, or a special occasion, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Pair it with your favorite sides, garnish with fresh herbs and lemon, and enjoy a delicious, balanced meal that’s sure to impress.

With tender salmon, savory Old Bay seasoning, and optional roasted vegetables, this recipe is versatile, nutritious, and a new favorite for seafood lovers of all ages.

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