Smoked salmon is one of the most versatile dishes ever created, as equally welcome on the dinner table as it is in the brunch spread. This Easy Smoked Salmon is the perfect way to dazzle the crowd at your next holiday party: the beautiful orangey-pink flesh will get people buzzing, as will the tender, smoky, and savory-sweet flavor. Easy Smoked Salmon might be a bit of a time commitment, but with a touch of citrus from the garnishes, it is so worth it—especially because it truly is easy to make.
Ingredients
- 1 salmon fillet, about 2 pounds
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke, plus more as needed
- lemon slices, optional, for garnish
- capers, optional, for garnish
Directions
Step 1 –Grease an 11×7-inch baking dish.
Step 2 –Place the salmon, skin side down, into the prepared baking dish.
Step 3 –Sprinkle the salmon with brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
Step 4 –Drizzle the salmon with the liquid smoke, ensuring that every exposed part of the salmon receives some of it.
Step 5 –Cover the salmon and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours and up to 8 hours.
Step 6 –When it’s time to cook the salmon, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Step 7 –Drain the salmon, discarding the liquid.
Step 8 –Bake the fish uncovered until it is tender and flakes easily when pressed with a fork, about 35-40 minutes.
Step 9 –Remove the salmon from the oven and let cool.
Step 10 –Cover the salmon and refrigerate again, this time for at least 8 hours and up to overnight.
Step 11 –Serve cool with the lemon slices and capers.
