Enjoy a flavorful and nutritious dinner with this Baked Lemon Herb Salmon recipe. Perfectly seasoned and baked to perfection, it’s a quick and easy meal for any night of the week.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 350 per serving
Why You’ll Love This Baked Lemon Herb Salmon
Baked Lemon Herb Salmon is a quick, easy, and nutritious dinner option that’s full of flavor. The salmon is seasoned with fresh herbs, garlic, and zesty lemon juice, then baked until tender and flaky. This dish pairs perfectly with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, making it an ideal choice for a healthy weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
Ingredients for Baked Lemon Herb Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each) – Fresh and high-quality for the best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For drizzling over the salmon.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a robust flavor.
- Juice of 1 lemon – For a fresh, zesty taste.
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped – Provides a fragrant herbaceous note.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped – Adds freshness and color.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Complements the other herbs.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances the overall flavor.
- Lemon slices – For garnish and extra lemony flavor.
How to Make Baked Lemon Herb Salmon
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
- Season the Fillets: Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then sprinkle with minced garlic, dill, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add Lemon Slices: Place a lemon slice on top of each fillet for extra flavor.
Step 3: Bake the Salmon
- Bake: Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Check Doneness: The salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with additional fresh herbs and serve with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a simple green salad.
Tips for the Best Baked Lemon Herb Salmon
- Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh, high-quality salmon will give the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the salmon as it bakes to avoid overcooking, which can make it dry.
- Customize the Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like basil or thyme for different flavor profiles.
Delicious Variations to Try
- Garlic Butter Salmon: Replace the olive oil with melted butter and increase the garlic for a richer flavor.
- Spicy Lemon Herb Salmon: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
- Honey Lemon Salmon: Drizzle a bit of honey over the salmon before baking for a touch of sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning and baking.
What Sides Go Well with Baked Salmon?
Baked salmon pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted asparagus, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 2g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 38g
Baked Lemon Herb Salmon is a delightful and healthy dinner option that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for your family, this dish is sure to impress with its tender, flaky texture and vibrant herb and lemon flavor. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.