Print

Baked Salmon with Lemon Herb Sauce

Baked Salmon with Lemon Herb Sauce

Baked Salmon with Lemon Herb Sauce is an easy, healthy, and flavorful dish featuring tender, flaky salmon fillets baked to perfection and topped with a bright, zesty lemon herb sauce made from fresh herbs, garlic, lemon juice, and a touch of sweetness. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or elegant occasions, this recipe delivers a nutritious meal rich in omega-3 fatty acids, with simple preparation and versatile serving options.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

  • 4 fresh salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, about 6 oz each)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Lemon Herb Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon mixed fresh herbs (dill, parsley, thyme), chopped
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Salmon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to ensure the skin crisps nicely. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side down on a lined baking sheet or oven-safe dish.
  2. Make the Lemon Herb Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped herbs (dill, parsley, thyme), extra virgin olive oil, and a hint of honey. This sauce infuses the salmon with vibrant brightness and herbal freshness.
  3. Bake the Salmon: Brush the salmon generously with half of the lemon herb sauce. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork but remains moist.
  4. Finish and Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and spoon the remaining lemon herb sauce on top. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm salmon and fresh, tangy sauce. Garnish with extra lemon slices or fresh herb sprigs if desired.

Notes

  • Choose high-quality fresh or sustainably farmed salmon for best flavor and texture.
  • Do not overbake; watch closely in the last few minutes to keep the fish moist.
  • Use fresh herbs for optimal flavor; dried herbs can substitute but use less.
  • Let salmon sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
  • Allow salmon to rest a few minutes after baking to let juices redistribute.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked salmon, lemon herb sauce, healthy dinner, quick salmon recipe, omega-3 salmon, easy salmon bake