Serves 20
70 min
Whole Baked Salmon
Recipe GLPRd8563ef33a2493
A stunning whole salmon, baked until tender and flaky, filled with fresh lemon slices and aromatic dill. This elegant celebration dish serves a crowd beautifully and requires minimal seasoning to let the natural flavor of the fish shine through.
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Ingredients
1 whole salmon (4.5 kg / 9 pounds)
2 lemons, thinly sliced
1 large bunch fresh dill
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking.
Pat the whole salmon dry with paper towels inside and out. Rinse it gently under cold water and remove any excess moisture, as this helps achieve better cooking.
Place the salmon on the prepared baking sheet. Leave the head and tail intact for an impressive presentation.
Arrange half of the lemon slices inside the cavity of the salmon, distributing them evenly from head to tail.
Layer half of the fresh dill inside the salmon cavity, tucking it between and around the lemon slices.
Arrange the remaining lemon slices on top of the salmon, slightly overlapping them along the length of the fish.
Top with the remaining dill, scattering it across the surface of the salmon for flavor and visual appeal.
Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork at the thickest part of the body. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. The salmon will continue to cook gently during this rest period.
Transfer carefully to a serving platter, keeping the lemon and dill garnish intact. Serve warm, allowing guests to portion as desired.
