Lemon Herb Baked Salmon
A simple, elegant recipe for flaky baked salmon, brightened with fresh lemon and aromatic herbs. Ready in under 20 minutes, it's a perfect healthy weeknight dinner, rich in protein and omega-3s.
For 4 servings
5 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet
- b.Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- c.Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Make the lemon herb mixture
- b.In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, juice from half a lemon, minced garlic, chopped dill, and chopped parsley.
- c.Season the mixture with salt and black pepper.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Prepare and season the salmon
- b.Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with a paper towel.
- c.Arrange the fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
- d.Brush the lemon herb mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Bake the salmon
- b.Arrange the lemon slices from the other half of the lemon on top of the fillets.
- c.Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- d.For best results, check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Rest and serve
- b.Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
- c.Serve immediately with your favorite sides like roasted asparagus or quinoa.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, use fresh herbs. If you must use dried, use 1 teaspoon of each instead of 1 tablespoon.
- 2Patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel before seasoning helps the oil and herb mixture adhere better.
- 3Be careful not to overbake the salmon, as it can become dry. Check for doneness at the 12-minute mark.
- 4This recipe works well with other fish like cod or halibut, though cooking times may vary.
- 5For a slightly crispier top, you can broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
Serve with a large portion of steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad to increase fiber and nutrients.
quickQuick
To save time, you can prepare the herb mixture a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
low carbLow carb
This dish is naturally low-carb. Pair it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a complete keto-friendly meal.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Salmon is one of the best sources of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to reduce inflammation and support heart and brain health.
High-Quality Protein
Provides a significant amount of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair, bone health, and maintaining a healthy metabolism.
Excellent Source of Vitamin D
Salmon is a natural source of Vitamin D, a crucial nutrient for bone health and immune function that is not found in many foods.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is very healthy. Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D, which are beneficial for heart and brain health. Baking with minimal oil keeps it low in added fats.