Baked Lemon Herb Salmon is a delightful dish that embraces the fresh flavors of herbs and zesty lemon, offering a scrumptious and nutritious meal that’s sure to impress. It’s a straightforward recipe that guarantees a perfectly cooked, flaky salmon every time. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to make and full of flavor.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious dish to life:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon slices for garnish
Equipments
- Baking dish
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Foil (optional)
How to Make Baked Lemon Herb Salmon – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A properly heated oven ensures that your salmon cooks evenly and retains its succulent moisture. As the oven warms up, gather all your ingredients and equipment, setting up a neat workstation.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, chopped dill, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything until well blended. This fragrant mixture will infuse your salmon with a vibrant taste, making it juicy and flavorful.
Step 3: Coat the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets in the baking dish. Pour the marinade over the fillets, ensuring each piece is well-coated with the herbs and oil. Let the salmon sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors penetrate the fish, enhancing its taste.
Step 4: Bake the Salmon
Cover the baking dish with foil to keep the moisture in, and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. You’ll know your salmon is perfectly done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque pink appearance throughout.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked to perfection, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and additional herbs, if desired. This final touch not only elevates the dish visually but adds an extra layer of zesty freshness.
How to Serve Baked Lemon Herb Salmon
Baked Lemon Herb Salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad. The clean, bright flavors of the salmon complement a myriad of accompaniments, making it a versatile choice for any meal.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For the best results, fresh salmon is always recommended. Ensure the salmon fillets are similar in size for consistent cooking. Additionally, experimenting with other herbs such as basil or thyme can add a different flavor profile to this classic dish.
Pumped-Up Protein Delight: High-Protein Lemon Herb Salmon
If you’re looking to boost your protein intake, simply add a serving of protein-packed black beans or lentils as a side. These tiny legumes can complement the dish’s flavors while significantly increasing the meal’s protein content. Consider mixing them with a dash of the leftover marinade for continuity of flavor.
Lean and Green: Low-Carb Lemon Herb Salmon Feast
To keep your meal low-carb, serve your Baked Lemon Herb Salmon with a side of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. These alternatives to traditional grains provide the comfort of familiar textures while keeping your carb count in check. A squeeze of lemon over these sides can elevate the simple veggies into an integrated part of your culinary masterpiece.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers, allow the salmon to cool to room temperature before storing. Place it in an airtight container; it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven at a low temperature or in a skillet over moderate heat to prevent the salmon from drying out.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen salmon fillets? Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Ensure they are properly thawed and patted dry before marinating.
- What can I substitute for fresh dill? If fresh dill isn’t available, dried dill can be used in a lesser amount, or you can substitute with fresh basil or thyme for a different herbal touch.
- How can I tell if the salmon is done? Look for the salmon to flake easily with a fork and have a uniform opaque color throughout.
- Can I grill the salmon instead? Absolutely. Grilling adds a lovely smoky flavor. Make sure to oil the grill well to prevent sticking.
- How do I add more lemon flavor? Zest a lemon and sprinkle the zest over the serving for an additional burst of citrus aroma.
- Is it necessary to use foil? While foil helps keep the salmon moist, you can bake without it for a slightly crispier texture. Just keep an eye on it to prevent drying out.
Join the Flavor Journey: Share Your Thoughts!
This Baked Lemon Herb Salmon recipe is a true delight that showcases a perfect blend of simplicity and elegance. We hope you enjoy trying it as much as we loved bringing it to you. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, leave a comment below with your feedback, or pin it for later inspiration!
Baked Lemon Herb Salmon
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- salmon fillets
- olive oil
- lemon juice
- fresh dill
- fresh parsley
- garlic powder
- salt and pepper
- lemon slices
Instructions
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, dill, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the salmon in a baking dish and pour the marinade over the fillets.
- Cover with foil and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the salmon is flaky.
- Remove from oven, garnish with lemon slices, and serve.