Description
A simple and healthy baked salmon recipe featuring tender, flaky fillets seasoned with garlic, herbs, and fresh lemon. Perfect for a quick and nutritious meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon and Seasoning
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper (just a pinch if using finely ground black pepper)
Garlic Herb Mixture
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning blend (OR herbs de Provence, or ¼ teaspoon each dried thyme, parsley, oregano, and basil)
- 1 medium lemon
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a large baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Season Salmon: Arrange the salmon fillets on the baking sheet. Generously season each piece with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors.
- Make Garlic Herb Oil: In a small bowl, stir together olive oil, minced garlic, Italian herbs, and juice of half the lemon until well combined.
- Apply Mixture: Spoon the garlic herb oil over the salmon fillets, rubbing it thoroughly over the tops and sides to ensure every surface is coated and no part is left dry.
- Add Lemon Slices: Thinly slice the remaining half of the lemon and place one slice atop each salmon fillet for added flavor and presentation.
- Bake the Salmon: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. For a golden finish, optionally broil the last 1 to 2 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- This baked salmon is flavorful yet healthy, combining garlic, herbs, and bright lemon for a delicious meal.
- Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of fillets; check for doneness by flaking with a fork.
- Broiling briefly at the end enhances the top crust but is optional.
- Pair with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed within 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (approximately 6 ounces)
- Calories: 306 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 366 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 94 mg
