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
Scale
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
