Herb and Lemon Baked Salmon Recipe: A Simple and Elegant Dish

Herb and lemon baked salmon is a perfect combination of fresh, zesty flavors and tender, flaky fish. This recipe is light yet satisfying, making it ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner or a sophisticated main course for special occasions. Best of all, it’s quick to prepare and requires minimal cleanup. Let’s dive into how you can create this delightful dish in just a few steps.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

  • 4 salmon fillets (approximately 6 ounces each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Lemon slices (for garnish, optional)
  • Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Step 1 Preheat the Oven

To start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This step not only ensures easy cleanup but also prevents the salmon from sticking to the pan.

Step 2 Prepare the Herb and Lemon Marinade

The marinade is the heart of this recipe, infusing the salmon with vibrant flavors. In a small bowl, whisk together

  • Olive oil
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Lemon zest
  • Minced garlic
  • Chopped dill and parsley
  • Salt and black pepper

This simple blend of ingredients delivers a perfect balance of acidity, freshness, and savory goodness.

Step 3 Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the herb and lemon marinade generously over each fillet, ensuring the salmon is well coated. If you have a few extra minutes, let the salmon marinate for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the fish.

Step 4 Bake the Salmon

Once the salmon is marinated, it’s time to bake

  1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
  2. Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  3. For a slightly crispier finish, you can broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes of baking.

Step 5 Garnish and Serve

After removing the salmon from the oven, let it rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and additional herbs, such as parsley or dill, for an extra burst of flavor and color. Serve immediately.

served baked salmon image

Serving Suggestions

Herb and lemon baked salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to round out your meal

  • Steamed Vegetables. Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans complement the light, zesty flavors of the salmon.
  • Roasted Potatoes. A side of crispy, herb-roasted potatoes adds heartiness to the dish.
  • Quinoa or Rice. Serve the salmon over a bed of quinoa or fluffy rice for a wholesome, balanced meal.
  • Fresh Salad. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette enhances the meal’s freshness.

Flavor Profile

This dish delivers a refreshing blend of flavors. The lemon brings a bright, zesty tang, while the fresh herbs add an aromatic complexity. Garlic and olive oil provide a savory depth, perfectly complementing the rich, buttery texture of the salmon. Every bite is light, flavorful, and satisfying.

Tips for Perfect Herb and Lemon Baked Salmon

  • Use Fresh Ingredients. Fresh lemon juice and herbs make a significant difference in flavor compared to bottled or dried substitutes.
  • Don’t Overcook. Keep an eye on the salmon as it bakes. Overcooked salmon can become dry, so check for doneness around the 12-minute mark.
  • Customize the Herbs. While dill and parsley work wonderfully, you can experiment with other herbs like thyme, basil, or chives.
  • Skin-On Fillets. If your salmon fillets have skin, leaving it on helps retain moisture during baking. The skin will easily peel away after cooking if you prefer not to eat it.

Health Benefits of Salmon

Salmon is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. It’s an excellent source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins like B12 and D. These nutrients promote heart health, support brain function, and help maintain strong bones.

Herb and lemon baked salmon is a versatile and elegant dish that’s sure to impress. Enjoy your meal!

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