Texas Roadhouse Salmon

This juicy and flavorful Texas Roadhouse-inspired salmon has transformed my weeknight dinner routine. The perfect blend of spices creates that signature restaurant taste right in your own kitchen, making this recipe a true game-changer for seafood lovers.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I was craving something special but had no time for complicated cooking. My family was so impressed they requested it three times the following week.

Ingredients

• Fresh salmon fillets: Choose center cut pieces with bright color and firm texture for best results
• Olive oil: Creates a moisture barrier that keeps the salmon juicy while cooking
• Garlic powder: Provides that classic savory foundation without the risk of burning that fresh garlic has
• Onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the spice blend
• Paprika: Gives beautiful color and mild smoky flavor that makes this recipe special
• Dried oregano: Brings Mediterranean notes that complement the salmon perfectly
• Cayenne pepper: Adds the signature Texas Roadhouse kick that elevates this dish
• Fresh lemon juice: Balances richness and helps tenderize the fish
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the finished dish with color and fresh herbaceous notes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Your Oven:

Set your oven to 400°F and allow it to fully heat while you prepare the salmon. A properly preheated oven ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect texture where the salmon is just cooked through but still moist.

Create The Spice Blend:

Combine olive oil with all dry seasonings in a small bowl. Take time to mix thoroughly until you have a smooth paste with no clumps of spices. This ensures every bite of salmon will have balanced flavor.

Prepare The Salmon:

Pat salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels. This crucial step removes excess moisture that would otherwise steam the fish rather than allowing it to roast properly. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet for perfect release after cooking.

Season With Care:

Apply the spice mixture generously over each fillet using a silicone brush for even coverage. Make sure to coat the sides as well as the top. The oil helps the spices adhere while creating a moisture seal.

Add Brightness:

Squeeze fresh lemon juice directly over the seasoned fillets. The acid from the lemon not only adds flavor but helps break down the proteins slightly for a more tender result.

Bake To Perfection:

Place the baking sheet in the middle rack of your oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes depending on thickness. Look for slight firmness when gently pressed and a barely translucent center that will continue cooking during the rest period.

Rest For Juiciness:

Allow the salmon to rest untouched for 3 to 5 minutes after removing from the oven. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the fish resulting in much moister salmon.

Garnish And Serve:

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the warm salmon just before serving. Present with additional lemon wedges on the side for guests to add extra brightness if desired.

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The cayenne pepper is my secret weapon in this recipe. I learned from a Texas chef that the slight heat actually enhances the natural sweetness of the salmon without overwhelming it. Start with less if you are heat sensitive you can always add more to the next batch.

Perfectly Cooked Salmon Tips

The biggest mistake home cooks make with salmon is overcooking it. The fish should still have a slight translucency in the center when you remove it from the oven. The residual heat will continue cooking it to perfection as it rests. If you wait until the salmon looks completely opaque throughout it will be overdone by serving time.

Make It A Complete Meal

This salmon pairs beautifully with simple side dishes that allow it to shine. Try serving with roasted asparagus that can cook on the same sheet pan during the last 8 minutes of baking time. A wild rice pilaf or buttery mashed potatoes make excellent starch companions that complement without competing with the flavorful fish.

Spice Variations To Try

While this base recipe captures that classic Texas Roadhouse flavor you can easily customize it to create different flavor profiles. For a sweeter version add a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey to the spice rub. For an Asian inspired twist replace the oregano with ground ginger and add a splash of soy sauce. For Mediterranean flavors add dried dill and increase the lemon.

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Enjoy this restaurant-style salmon dish as a gourmet addition to your weeknight routine or for entertaining guests on special occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do you know when salmon is cooked?

Salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches 145°F internally. It should look opaque and tender.

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this dish?

Yes, just thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning. This helps ensure even cooking and better flavor.

→ What side dishes pair well with this salmon?

Try roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or a fresh green salad to complete the meal.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

Use less cayenne for a milder version or add extra cayenne/red pepper flakes if you prefer more heat.

→ Can I use other cooking methods for this salmon?

Yes, you can grill, air fry, or pan-sear the salmon instead of baking. Adjust the cooking time as needed.