Easy Lemon Parmesan Baked Salmon

We're quickly approaching the >200 day mark on the wedding countdown. And since I've purchased my dress, I've really been trying to be good. That means eating better and staying active (averaging 12,000+ steps a day. Thanks, FitBit!). Of course, there are days that you just need some french fries or a slice of pizza, or three, but other days, I'm mostly all business. I even look ahead at a restaurant menu if I know we'll be eating out that night in an effort to make a healthier choice. It's easier to turn down that fried chicken finger platter when you go in knowing you'd be consuming 1,380 calories and 78 grams of fat.  On nights that I cook, I try to find a healthy meal that we'll both enjoy.

Friday was a cold, rainy day with a fog that never seemed to lift before the sun began to set again. When Zach and I discussed dinner plans that day I suggested we just stay in because, after all, does anyone really want to leave the house in that weather if they don't have to? Not to mention I took a nap later in the afternoon (the power was out!!) and didn't feel like doing my hair and makeup after I finally showered. I think every girl understands that reasoning. I told him we had some salmon I could cook and he requested lemon parmesan salmon. So, I did what I always do when I don't have a recipe for something. I went to Pinterest! I found a recipe we had everything for and that was that!

This salmon turned out SO good! It was super easy and even Zach said, "That was easily the best piece of salmon I've ever eaten." So, if you're a salmon fan and want a super easy, quick and healthy dinner, give this one a try! I don't think you'll be disappointed.

Ingredients:
(adapted from A Palatable Pastime)

6-8oz salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
juice from a whole lemon
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
sea salt
black pepper

Directions:

-Preheat oven to 425 F/broil
-In a small rectangular baking dish, pour oil and the juice from the lemon.
-Coat both sides of the fish in the oil/juice; season fish with salt, pepper, and garlic powder
-Place the parmesan on a plate and press the fish down into the parmesan (not the skin), then place the fish, skin down, in the baking dish. (I found it easier to just pat the cheese on after putting the fish in the dish)
-Broil (on top rack) for 10-12 minutes, or until fish flakes easily

The cheese came out a nice golden brown with a nice crispy texture while the fish remained perfectly moist. We had sugar snap peas and garlic and herb quinoa to round out the meal and this is definitely something we'll repeat...probably often!

Do you have any favorite salmon recipes?