Oh so delicious Salmon
2 pound side of salmon boneless (skin on or off, depending upon your preference), wild caught if possible
5 tomatoes or more if you like
Additional chopped fresh herbs such as basil, thyme, parsley, dill, or green onion (optional)
1. Remove the salmon from the refrigerator and let stand at room temperature for 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Chop tomatoes into bite sized pieces and olives into slices
3. Heat oven to 375 degrees F. Line a large baking dish or rimmed baking sheet with a large piece of aluminum foil. Lightly coat the foil with baking spray, cut one of the lemons into thin slices and arrange half the slices down place the salmon on top.
4. Drizzle the salmon with the olive oil and sprinkle with the salt and pepper. Rub to coat, then scatter the garlic cloves over the top and the other lemon, tomatoes and olives.
5. Fold the sides of the aluminum foil up and over the top of the salmon until it is completely enclosed. Leave a little room inside the foil for air to circulate.
6. Bake the salmon for 15-20 minutes, until the salmon is almost completely cooked through at the thickest part. The cooking time will vary based on the thickness of your salmon. If your side is thinner (around 1-inch thick) check several minutes early to ensure your salmon does not overcook. If your piece is very thick (1 1/2 inches or more), it may need longer.
7. Remove the salmon from the oven and carefully open the foil so that the top of the fish is completely uncovered (be careful of hot steam). Change the oven setting to broil, then return the fish to the oven and broil for 3 minutes, until the top of the salmon and the garlic are slightly golden and the fish is cooked through. Watch the salmon closely as it broils to make sure it doesn’t overcook and the garlic does not burn. Remove the salmon from the oven. If it still appears a bit underdone, you can wrap the foil back over the top and let it rest for a few minutes. Do not let it sit too long—salmon can progress from “not done” to “over done” very quickly. As soon as it flakes easily with a fork, it’s ready.
8. To serve, cut the salmon into portions. Sprinkle with additional fresh herbs or top with an extra squeeze of lemon as desired.;Notes;This recipe is best enjoyed the day that it is made, as salmon can dry out when reheated.