Classic Lemon Herb Baked Salmon
This classic baked salmon recipe features flaky fillets infused with bright lemon, aromatic herbs, and savory garlic. It's a simple yet elegant dish, perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper or Foil
- Small Bowl
- Whisk
- Paper Towels
Ingredients
Main
- 1.5 - 2 lbs salmon fillets skin-on or skin-off (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- large lemon for juice and optional slices
- 2-3 cloves garlic minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
- 1-2 tsp dried dill (or fresh dill, chopped)
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- Paprika, a pinch of cayenne, or a drizzle of honey/maple syrup Optional Enhancements
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, lightly greasing it with olive oil.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and place them skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Cooking
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried dill, salt, black pepper, and any optional spices.
- Drizzle the mixture over the salmon, gently rubbing to coat, and optionally add thin lemon slices on top.
Baking
- Bake for 12-18 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork or reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the salmon for 15-30 minutes before baking. Ensure the salmon is not overcooked to keep it moist and tender. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.