Rosemary Ranch Salmon

This Rosemary Ranch Salmon recipe combines the fresh, zesty flavors of lemon and rosemary with the creamy richness of ranch dressing. The result is a beautifully baked salmon dish that is both easy to prepare and packed with savory flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant yet simple meal to impress guests, this salmon will leave you wanting more with its juicy and flavorful taste.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon filets (about 3 inches wide)
• Kosher salt
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Freshly cracked pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1/3 cup ranch dressing

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. For an easier cleanup, line the dish with aluminum foil. Tip: Lining your baking dish with foil not only makes cleanup a breeze but also helps retain the moisture in the salmon, resulting in a tender and flavorful fillet.

1. Prepare the Salmon:

• If your salmon filets are large, cut them into individual portions, about 3 inches wide. Sprinkle each filet with kosher salt, then rinse with water and pat dry using paper towels.
• Place the salmon filets onto the prepared baking dish, skin-side down if your filets have skin. Note: Salting and rinsing the salmon helps enhance the flavor while also removing any residual fishiness from the fillets.

1. Add Flavor:

• Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon filets. Generously season with kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste.
• Finely chop fresh rosemary and sprinkle over the top of each salmon filet. You can adjust the amount of rosemary based on your preference, but about 1 tablespoon gives a nice, mild flavor when baked. Tip: Rosemary pairs beautifully with the richness of the salmon, but if you prefer a stronger herbal flavor, feel free to increase the amount.

1. Spread the Ranch Dressing:

• Spread an even layer of ranch dressing on top of each filet, using about 1/3 cup for the four filets. This creamy dressing will add a tangy richness that complements the lemon and rosemary.

1. Bake the Salmon:

• Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes. If your filets have skin, bake with the skin side down.
• After 10 minutes, transfer the baking dish to the top rack of the oven and switch the oven to broil. Broil for 1-3 minutes, or until the ranch dressing on top starts to bubble and develop small brown specks. Tip: Keep a close eye on the salmon while broiling. You want just a hint of browning for added texture and flavor, but don’t let it burn.

1. Serve and Enjoy:

• Remove the salmon from the oven and serve immediately. This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad for a light and balanced meal.

Final Tips:

• Doneness: Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Be careful not to overcook it to maintain its moist texture.
• Substitutions: Feel free to substitute fresh rosemary with dried rosemary or another herb like thyme. If you’re not a fan of ranch dressing, a light coating of garlic butter or an herbed mayonnaise also works beautifully.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the salmon filets with the lemon, rosemary, and ranch dressing in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

This Rosemary Ranch Salmon is the perfect combination of bright citrus, savory herbs, and creamy richness—making it a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that everyone will love!