Classic Clean Eating Lemon Salmon
This classic clean eating lemon salmon recipe is a healthy and delicious meal that is perfect for any day of the week. It features flaky salmon fillets marinated in a zesty lemon-herb mixture, then baked or pan-seared to perfection.
Equipment
- Oven
- Small bowl
- Parchment-lined baking sheet or shallow dish
- Non-stick skillet (for pan-searing)
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4-6 ounces per person Salmon Fillets skin on or off, wild-caught if possible
- Fresh Lemons juice and some zest
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil good quality
- Fresh Herbs Dill, parsley, or thyme; fresh is best
- Garlic minced
- Sea Salt
- Black Pepper To taste
Optional
- Red Pepper Flakes for a subtle kick
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a better sear or crispier skin.
Marinade
- In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
Marinate the Salmon
- Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then pour the lemon-herb mixture evenly over each fillet; marinate for 10-15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
Cooking Methods
- For baking, place salmon on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12-18 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until flaky and cooked through (internal temperature 145°F/63°C).
- For pan-searing, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, then cook salmon skin-side down for 4-6 minutes until crispy, flip, and cook for another 3-5 minutes until cooked through.
Serving
- Garnish with fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of extra herbs before serving for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
Avoid over-marinating the salmon as the lemon juice can start to "cook" the fish. The cooking time for salmon can vary based on its thickness; always aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for best results. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal.