Easy Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe

BySarah
Jump to Recipe· 4.5 from 6 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a bright, flavorful dinner that comes together quickly and feels a little fancy, you’re going to love this Easy Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe. It’s one of those dishes I turn to when I want something healthy, satisfying, and downright delicious without fussing over elaborate preparations. Stick with me, and I’ll walk you through every step to help you nail it perfectly.

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Simple Ingredients: All pantry staples that come together to build bright, fresh flavors without any hassle.
  • Quick Cooking Time: Ready in about 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
  • Perfect Texture Every Time: Baking at high heat locks in moisture while creating that melt-in-your-mouth flakiness.
  • No Over-marinating Needed: The lemon glaze goes on right before baking to keep the salmon tender, not tough.
Easy Baked Lemon Salmon, healthy baked salmon, quick salmon dinner, lemon salmon recipe, flavorful seafood entrees - Four cooked salmon fillets lie side by side on a baking tray with a slightly browned surface. Each salmon fillet is light pink with a moist and soft texture, sprinkled with small green herb pieces on top. A thin, round lemon slice with pale yellow color and visible seeds rests on each fillet. The background shows the textured baking tray with some scattered oil and browned bits. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

This Easy Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe balances fresh herbs with a tangy, garlicky glaze that enhances the natural richness of the fish. Picking good quality salmon and fresh lemon makes a huge difference, so here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll want on hand and why each ingredient plays a starring role.

Easy Baked Lemon Salmon, healthy baked salmon, quick salmon dinner, lemon salmon recipe, flavorful seafood entrees - Flat lay of fresh pink salmon fillets with skin on, a small pile of finely chopped bright green parsley, three whole garlic cloves with smooth white skins, a small white ceramic bowl filled with clear golden olive oil, a small white ceramic bowl with pale yellow fresh lemon juice, a small white ceramic bowl containing smooth pale yellow Dijon mustard, a small white ceramic bowl of fine white sea salt, a small white ceramic bowl with freshly cracked black pepper, and four thin lemon rings with bright yellow rinds arranged neatly, all placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997
  • Salmon fillet: Ideally fresh and skin-on for that crispy texture on baking; the skin helps keep it moist.
  • Fresh parsley: Adds that bright, herbaceous note that pairs beautifully with lemon and garlic.
  • Extra light olive oil: Keeps the fish moist and helps the glaze cling; vegetable oil works fine if you prefer.
  • Fresh lemon juice: Provides zing and brightness without overpowering the salmon’s flavor.
  • Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic brings warmth and depth, far better than pre-minced versions.
  • Dijon mustard: Acts as a subtle binder and adds a mild, tangy kick to the marinade.
  • Fine sea salt: Essential for seasoning evenly and enhancing all other flavors.
  • Black pepper: Freshly cracked for a little subtle heat and complexity.
  • Lemon slices: For garnish — adds charm and extra citrus aroma when baked right on top.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

One of the things I love about this Easy Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe is how adaptable it is. Whether you want to dial up the garlic, add a sprinkle of fresh dill instead of parsley, or swap lemon for lime for a twist, this recipe welcomes your personal touch.

  • Herb Variation: I once tried fresh dill instead of parsley, and it gave the salmon a delightful, slightly sweeter herbal note that my family really enjoyed.
  • Low-Sodium Option: Just reduce or omit the salt if you’re watching sodium, and boost flavor with extra lemon zest or fresh herbs.
  • Spicy Kick: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes in the marinade adds a lovely heat that balances the citrus.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Easy Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Salmon

First things first, preheat your oven to a sizzling 450°F. I like to line my baking sheet with parchment paper or foil – it saves me a messy cleanup later. Then, place your salmon fillets skin-side down, spaced out so they bake evenly. This simple layout helps the skin crisp up just right without sticking.

Step 2: Whip Up That Glaze

In a small bowl, combine the parsley, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir until everything’s blended into a bright, flavorful glaze. This is where the magic happens—the mixture clings to the salmon and bakes into it, infusing every bite.

Step 3: Brush and Garnish

Generously brush this glaze over the top and sides of each salmon fillet — don’t be shy! Then lay a thin slice of lemon right on top of each one. It’s important to bake immediately after glazing to avoid the lemon juice ‘cooking’ the fish and making it tough.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered at 450°F for about 12-15 minutes. I like to check if my salmon is done by looking for a flaky texture and using an instant-read thermometer—the internal temp should hit 145˚F at the thickest part. Keep an eye here; overcooked salmon can turn dry fast, and you want to lock in that juiciness!

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Pro Tips for Making Easy Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe

  • Use Fresh, Never Frozen Salmon: I noticed a big difference in texture and flavor when I switched from frozen; fresh fillets bake up more tender and juicy.
  • Don’t Skip the Lemon Slices: Baking lemon slices on top releases oils and aroma that elevate the whole dish beyond just lemon juice.
  • High Heat Is Your Friend: Baking at 450°F gives you that delicate flakiness without drying it out—don’t go lower than 400°F.
  • Avoid Over-Marinating: Since the glaze is brushed on right before baking, skipping long marinades keeps the salmon tender, not tough.

How to Serve Easy Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe

Easy Baked Lemon Salmon, healthy baked salmon, quick salmon dinner, lemon salmon recipe, flavorful seafood entrees - The image shows a close-up of two salmon fillets cooked with a light seasoning of herbs and small bits of garlic. Each fillet has a thin round lemon slice placed on top, adding a light yellow color contrast. The salmon is a soft pink with visible flaky texture, and the herbs add green specks all over. One fillet is being gently pulled apart with a silver fork, showing the tender inside of the fish. The background is a white marbled texture, adding a clean and bright look to the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I like to finish with a little extra handful of finely chopped fresh parsley or dill right after baking to keep things bright and herbal. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving adds that gourmet touch I enjoy.

Side Dishes

This salmon shines alongside roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or even a quick mixed green salad with vinaigrette. For a cozy dinner, creamy risotto or buttery couscous works beautifully too—balance is key with those fresh lemon flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I sometimes plate the salmon over a bed of herbed quinoa with edible flowers and a twist of lemon zest. Another fun idea is serving the salmon on individual banana leaves or large lettuce leaves for a fresh, elegant look that keeps things light and colorful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’ve got leftovers (lucky you!), I recommend loosely wrapping the salmon in foil or storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for 2-3 days, and I find that the flavors deepen nicely overnight.

Freezing

Freezing baked salmon is totally doable—I wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for best protection. When thawed, the texture is slightly different but still tasty, especially tossed into salads or pasta dishes.

Reheating

I gently reheat in a low oven (around 275°F) wrapped in foil to avoid drying it out or briefly in the microwave with a cover and at 50% power. Pair it with a squeeze of fresh lemon to brighten it up again.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen salmon for this Easy Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe?

    Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but I recommend thawing it completely and patting it dry before baking. Fresh salmon tends to have a better texture and flavor, but frozen works in a pinch as long as you adjust to avoid excess moisture.

  2. Do I have to remove the skin before baking?

    Leaving the skin on helps keep the salmon moist during baking and crisps up nicely. It’s easy to remove after cooking if you prefer not to eat it. Plus, it makes handling the fillets easier while cooking.

  3. How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?

    Look for salmon flakes that separate easily with a fork and an internal temperature of 145°F at the thickest part measured with an instant-read thermometer. Avoid overcooking to keep it tender and juicy.

  4. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

    You can prepare the glaze in advance and store it covered in the fridge for up to a day. Just give it a quick stir before brushing onto the salmon right before baking to ensure freshness and the best flavor.

  5. What can I serve with this salmon for a complete meal?

    Roasted or steamed veggies, garlic mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a vibrant salad are all excellent options that complement the lemony freshness of the salmon and round out the meal nicely.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe has become a go-to in my kitchen whenever I’m craving something fuss-free yet impressive. Bright lemon, fragrant garlic, and tender salmon come together to make a dish that feels both comforting and fresh. I can’t wait for you to try it—believe me, once you have this recipe in your rotation, it’ll be hard to imagine weeknight dinners without it!

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Easy Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 6 reviews
  • Author: Sarah
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat
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Description

This Best Baked Salmon Recipe features tender, flaky salmon fillets coated with a zesty herb and lemon marinade, baked to perfection for a simple, flavorful, and healthy main dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Salmon

  • 1 1/2 lb salmon fillet, cut into 4 fillets

Marinade

  • 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 Tbsp extra light olive oil, or vegetable oil
  • 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced, pressed, or grated
  • 1/2 Tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper, freshly cracked
  • 1/2 lemon, sliced into 4 rings for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 450°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with a silicone liner, parchment paper, or foil to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup. Arrange the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
  2. Make Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the fresh parsley, minced garlic, extra light olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, fine sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir well to blend all flavors into a cohesive marinade.
  3. Apply Marinade and Garnish: Generously brush the marinade over the top and sides of each salmon fillet, ensuring even coverage. Then place a lemon slice atop each piece to add a burst of citrus aroma and flavor during baking.
  4. Bake the Salmon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake uncovered at 450°F for 15 minutes, or until the salmon is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F in the thickest part, checked with an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Notes

  • Apply the glaze immediately before baking to prevent the lemon juice from ‘cooking’ the salmon and making it tough; no prolonged marinating needed.
  • Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure perfect doneness for tender, flaky salmon.
  • Opt for either extra light olive oil or vegetable oil based on your preference or availability.
  • Serve the salmon immediately after baking to enjoy its best texture and flavor.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 fillet
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 2 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg

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