Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is one of the easiest and most flavorful seafood dinners you can make at home. This simple oven-baked salmon recipe combines fresh lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and butter to create a bright, buttery sauce that perfectly complements tender salmon fillets. Ready in about 20 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or elegant family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon recipe is loved for its simplicity, fresh flavor, and foolproof cooking method. The lemon and garlic create a light yet rich sauce that keeps the salmon moist and flaky. It’s a one-pan meal that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, rice, or salad, making it perfect for both quick weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
4 salmon fillets, skin removed (about 24 oz / 680 g total)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 2 teaspoons dried)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried)
1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional: 4 lemon slices and extra herbs for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper, foil, or a silicone baking mat. If using foil, lightly brush it with olive oil.
- Arrange the salmon fillets evenly spaced in the center of the pan. If roasting vegetables, place them around the edges of the pan.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the lemon juice, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon the lemon garlic mixture evenly over the salmon fillets. Place a lemon slice on top of each fillet if desired.
- Bake the Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon for 15–20 minutes depending on the thickness of the fillets. Salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
- For accuracy, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Serve warm with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
Tips & Tricks
Choose center-cut salmon fillets for even cooking and better texture.
Fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch.
Avoid overcooking salmon; it continues to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
For extra flavor, add roasted asparagus, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes to the same pan.
Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mediterranean / American
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary Notes: Gluten-Free, Low-Carb, Halal-Friendly
Notes
This recipe works well with fresh or frozen salmon fillets. If using frozen salmon, thaw completely and pat dry before baking. You can also substitute parsley or dill with thyme, basil, or chives depending on your preference.
Nutrition (Approximate)
Calories: 380
Protein: 34 g
Carbohydrates: 2 g
Fat: 25 g
FAQ
How do I know when baked salmon is done?
Salmon is done when it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F.
Can I make baked lemon garlic salmon ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the lemon garlic sauce in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes. Just thaw them fully in the refrigerator and pat dry before baking.
What vegetables pair well with this salmon recipe?
Roasted asparagus, broccoli, green beans, or zucchini are excellent options.
Can I cook this salmon in foil packets?
Yes. Wrapping the salmon in foil packets keeps it extra moist and makes cleanup easier.
Storage
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes or microwave in short intervals.
You can also freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months.
Similar Recipes
Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets skin removed (about 24 oz / 680 g total)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or 2 teaspoons dried
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or 1 teaspoon dried
- 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: 4 lemon slices and extra herbs for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper, foil, or a silicone baking mat. If using foil, lightly brush it with olive oil.
- Arrange the salmon fillets evenly spaced in the center of the pan. If roasting vegetables, place them around the edges of the pan.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the lemon juice, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon the lemon garlic mixture evenly over the salmon fillets. Place a lemon slice on top of each fillet if desired.
- Bake the Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon for 15–20 minutes depending on the thickness of the fillets. Salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
- For accuracy, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Serve warm with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
Notes
Conclusion
Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is a simple yet elegant recipe that delivers fresh, vibrant flavors with minimal effort. With its tender texture, bright citrus notes, and aromatic herbs, it’s a reliable seafood dish that works for both quick dinners and special occasions.