Baked Salmon with Lemon

Baked Salmon with Lemon: A Succulent and Zesty Masterpiece  🍋🐟🔥

1. Introduction

Baked salmon with lemon is one of those timeless dishes that never goes out of style. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this baked salmon recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The magic happens when the rich, buttery salmon meets the bright acidity of fresh lemon – creating a flavor profile that’s both sophisticated and comforting.

What makes this dish truly special is its versatility. It works equally well for casual family meals and elegant dinner parties. Plus, it’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making it one of the healthiest recipes you can prepare. The best part? You probably have most of the ingredients in your kitchen already!

2. Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each) – look for fresh, wild-caught salmon for best results
• 2 large lemons (1 for slicing, 1 for juicing)
• 3 tbsp high-quality olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
• 2 cloves fresh garlic (minced finely)
• 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh)
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
• ½ tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or swapping the dried herbs for fresh ones when in season. If you’re looking for more protein-packed recipes, salmon is an excellent choice.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Salmon

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This moderate temperature ensures even cooking without drying out the fish. While the oven heats, line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper (for easy cleanup) or lightly grease it with olive oil. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels – this crucial step helps the seasoning stick better and promotes beautiful browning.

Place the fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. If your salmon still has skin on, don’t worry – it will become delightfully crispy during baking and is easy to remove after cooking if preferred.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

Drizzle the olive oil evenly over each fillet, using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon to coat all surfaces. This creates a protective layer that locks in moisture. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this aromatic mixture evenly over the oiled salmon, gently pressing it into the flesh to help it adhere.

The garlic will mellow during baking, while the herbs create a fragrant crust. For those who love experimenting with flavors, this would pair beautifully with our smoked paprika roasted chickpeas as a side dish.

Step 3: Add Lemon Slices

Cut one lemon into thin slices (about ¼-inch thick) and arrange them decoratively over each fillet. The lemon serves three important purposes: it infuses bright citrus flavor, keeps the salmon moist during baking, and makes for a beautiful presentation. Save the second lemon for squeezing fresh juice over the cooked salmon just before serving.

For an extra flavor dimension, you could alternate lemon slices with fresh herb sprigs. This technique works wonderfully with our London breakfast plate as well, proving that citrus brightens many dishes.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the center of the preheated oven. The ideal baking time is 12-15 minutes, but this can vary based on your oven and the thickness of your fillets. A good rule of thumb is to cook for about 4-5 minutes per ½-inch of thickness at the thickest part of the fillet.

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork but still appears slightly translucent in the very center. Remember that residual heat will continue cooking the fish for a minute or two after removal from the oven. For more precise cooking, check out this comprehensive baked salmon guide from our friends at Le Creme de la Crumb.

4. Serving Suggestions

This baked salmon with lemon deserves equally impressive sides. For a light meal, pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. Heartier appetites will appreciate roasted asparagus or our crispy sweet potato fries. For a complete protein-packed meal, serve alongside quinoa or wild rice pilaf.

Presentation matters! Transfer the salmon to a warm platter, garnish with fresh parsley and additional lemon wedges. The vibrant colors make it as beautiful as it is delicious. If you’re meal prepping, this salmon keeps well for 3-4 days refrigerated – perfect for adding to salads or grain bowls.

5. Tips for the Best Baked Salmon

• Quality matters: Splurge on fresh, wild-caught salmon when possible for superior flavor and texture.
• Temperature check: Use an instant-read thermometer – perfect doneness at 125°F (52°C) for medium.
• Resting time: Let salmon rest 5 minutes after baking for juices to redistribute.
• Skin trick: For crispy skin, start skin-side down in a hot oven-safe skillet before transferring to oven.
• Herb variations: Try fresh dill, tarragon, or basil in place of oregano/thyme.

6. Variations

This baked salmon recipe is wonderfully adaptable:

– Mediterranean: Add kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese

– Asian-inspired: Swap lemon for lime, add ginger and drizzle with soy-honey glaze

– Creamy: Top with a dollop of herbed yogurt or tzatziki sauce

– Spicy: Add chili flakes or Cajun seasoning for heat

For another easy protein option, check out our spinach and feta egg muffins – perfect for meal prep!

7. Health Benefits

This baked salmon with lemon is a nutritional powerhouse:

– Omega-3 fatty acids: Supports heart health and reduces inflammation

– High-quality protein: 23g per 3oz serving for muscle maintenance

– Vitamin D: Crucial for bone health and immune function

– Antioxidants: From lemon and herbs combat oxidative stress

– Low carb: Naturally fits keto and paleo diets

For more healthy treats, try our almond butter energy balls as a post-meal snack!

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen salmon for this baked salmon recipe?
A: Absolutely! Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and pat very dry before using. Frozen salmon often has more moisture, so you may need to bake 1-2 minutes longer.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a 300°F oven or enjoy cold in salads.

Q: Can I make this ahead for a dinner party?
A: Yes! Prepare through step 3, cover, and refrigerate up to 4 hours before baking. Add 1-2 minutes to baking time since it’s starting cold.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
A: Bottled lemon juice works in a pinch (1 tbsp per fillet), but fresh is ideal. For a different twist, try oranges or limes!

9. Conclusion

This baked salmon with lemon recipe proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals. In just 30 minutes, you can transform a few basic components into a dish that’s elegant enough for company yet easy enough for busy weeknights. The bright lemon perfectly complements the rich salmon, while the herbs add depth of flavor.

Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to incorporate more healthy recipes into your rotation, this baked salmon deserves a spot in your culinary repertoire. It’s versatile, nutritious, and most importantly – absolutely delicious. For dessert, try our protein ice cream to complete your healthy meal!

Now that you’ve mastered this basic version, don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs, spices, and accompaniments. Happy cooking, and enjoy your culinary masterpiece! 🍽️✨

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