Baked Lemon Herb Salmon: A Healthy and Flavorful Seafood Dish

For a light, nutritious, and incredibly flavorful dinner, Baked Lemon Herb Salmon is a perfect choice. With a combination of fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs, this dish enhances the natural flavor of salmon, making it an easy and healthy option that can be ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a seafood lover or new to cooking salmon, this simple recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nutritious and Delicious: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and packed with protein, making this a wholesome meal that’s good for your heart and body.
Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a fast, flavorful meal.
Fresh and Zesty: The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs adds brightness and depth to the salmon, elevating its natural taste.

Ingredients:

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lemon, sliced
2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or parsley)
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and season each fillet generously with salt and pepper.
Make the Lemon Herb Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, and fresh dill. Spread this mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
Add the Lemon Slices: Place a few lemon slices on top of each fillet. As the salmon bakes, the lemon will infuse the fish with a fresh citrusy flavor.
Bake the Salmon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when it’s done.
Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a minute. Serve the baked salmon with additional lemon wedges on the side for squeezing, and garnish with extra dill or parsley if desired.

Tips for Perfect Baked Salmon

Check Doneness: To avoid overcooking, keep an eye on the salmon as it bakes. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked salmon.
Skin-On Fillets: If your fillets have skin, you can bake them skin-side down to help retain moisture and easily remove the skin after cooking.
Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon slices provide the best flavor. You can also squeeze extra fresh lemon juice over the salmon right before serving for a zesty boost.

Serving Suggestions

Roasted Vegetables: Pair the salmon with roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for a healthy, colorful side dish.
Rice or Quinoa: Serve the salmon over a bed of fluffy rice, quinoa, or couscous to soak up the delicious lemony juices.
Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich salmon beautifully, making for a balanced meal.

Variations to Try:

Garlic Butter Salmon: For a richer flavor, replace the olive oil with melted butter and combine it with garlic and herbs to brush over the fillets before baking.
Honey Mustard Glaze: Mix honey, Dijon mustard, and a splash of lemon juice to create a sweet and tangy glaze for the salmon before baking.
Spicy Salmon: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the herb mixture for a spicy kick that balances the citrusy flavors.

Health Benefits of Salmon

Salmon is one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain and heart health. It’s also packed with high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals like Vitamin D, B12, and selenium, making it a nutrient-dense food that’s great for overall health. Including salmon in your diet can help reduce inflammation, improve cognitive function, and promote healthy skin and hair.

Conclusion

Baked Lemon Herb Salmon is a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With the vibrant flavors of lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs, this dish is both light and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or looking for a simple recipe to enjoy solo, this baked salmon will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Give it a try for your next dinner, and enjoy the perfect balance of freshness and flavor!