Baked Lemon Herb Salmon

Baked lemon herb salmon is a flavorful and nutritious dish featuring tender, flaky salmon infused with fresh herbs, garlic, and zesty lemon. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With minimal preparation and simple ingredients, this dish delivers a restaurant-quality meal in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare
• Packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids and protein
• Light, fresh, and full of flavor
• Perfect for meal prep or a family dinner
• Requires minimal ingredients and cleanup

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh salmon fillets
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice and zest
• Garlic (minced)
• Fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, or thyme)
• Salt and black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Butter (optional, for extra richness)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
5. Brush or drizzle the mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Top with thin slices of lemon for extra flavor.
7. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
8. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2–4
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12–15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Make It Spicy: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili powder.
• Use Different Herbs: Try basil, cilantro, or rosemary for a different flavor.
• Add Vegetables: Roast asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini alongside the salmon.
• Try a Different Cooking Method: Grill or air-fry the salmon for a crispier texture.
• Use Honey or Maple Syrup: Add a drizzle for a touch of sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes or microwave for 1–2 minutes.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked salmon in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

How do I know when salmon is fully cooked?

Salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, but thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

What is the best type of salmon for this recipe?

Wild-caught salmon is preferred for its rich flavor, but farmed salmon also works well.

Can I cook this recipe in foil?

Yes, baking the salmon in foil helps lock in moisture and enhances the flavors.

What side dishes go well with baked salmon?

Serve it with roasted vegetables, quinoa, rice, or a fresh salad.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but use half the amount since dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Simply omit the butter or use a plant-based alternative.

Can I marinate the salmon in advance?

Yes, marinate it for up to 30 minutes before baking for deeper flavor.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it is low in carbs and high in healthy fats, making it perfect for a keto diet.

Can I use lime instead of lemon?

Yes, lime adds a slightly different citrus flavor that works well with salmon.

Conclusion

Baked lemon herb salmon is a simple yet elegant dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its fresh flavors, healthy ingredients, and quick preparation, this recipe is a great addition to your meal rotation. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious, nutritious meal with minimal effort.

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• Author: Mariem
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

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Description

A delicious and easy oven-baked salmon infused with fresh lemon, herbs, and roasted cherry tomatoes. A light and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner!

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 salmon fillets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried dill
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 small lemon, sliced
• Fresh dill or parsley for garnish

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Instructions

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, dill, salt, and black pepper.
• Place salmon fillets in a baking dish and brush with the seasoning mixture.
• Add cherry tomatoes and lemon slices around the salmon.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.
• Garnish with fresh dill or parsley and serve warm.

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Notes

• Pair with roasted vegetables or quinoa for a complete meal.
• Use fresh herbs instead of dried for a stronger flavor.
• Check doneness by flaking the salmon with a fork – it should be opaque and tender.