How to Bake Salmon Without Drying It Out

Baking salmon is a simple and delicious way to cook fish, but it can be tricky to get it just right. Overcooked salmon is dry and tough, but undercooked salmon can be dangerous to eat. Here are a few tips to help you bake salmon without drying it out:

Use a high-quality salmon fillet. The quality of the salmon will make a big difference in the final product. Look for a fillet that is fresh and firm, with no signs of drying or bruising.
Preheat your oven to the correct temperature. The ideal oven temperature for baking salmon is 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help to cook the salmon quickly and evenly, without drying it out.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help to prevent the salmon from sticking to the pan and will make cleanup easier.
Season the salmon with your favorite herbs and spices. Salt and pepper are always a good starting point, but you can also add other spices like paprika, garlic powder, or lemon pepper.
Bake the salmon for the correct amount of time. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the salmon fillet. A good rule of thumb is to bake the salmon for 10-12 minutes per inch of thickness.
Check the salmon for doneness. The salmon is done cooking when it is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the salmon, as this will dry it out.
Let the salmon rest before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the fish, resulting in a more tender and flavorful salmon.