Looking for a quick and healthy dinner idea? This baked salmon recipe is your go-to for a delicious, protein-packed meal. Made with fresh salmon fillets, zesty lemon, garlic, and Dijon mustard, this dish is full of bold, fresh flavors that your whole family will love. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this oven-baked salmon is ready in just 15 minutes! Whether you’re meal prepping, following a keto or low-carb diet, or simply want a tasty seafood option, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Pair it with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

This recipe uses simple ingredients and is baked to flaky perfection, making it an easy and foolproof way to prepare salmon. Plus, the lemon garlic marinade adds an irresistible tangy flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lb salmon fillet, cut into 4 portions
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 Tbsp extra light olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced, pressed, or grated
- 1/2 Tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/2 lemon, sliced into 4 rings for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with a silicone liner, parchment paper, or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the parsley, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create a flavorful marinade.
- Using a brush or spoon, generously coat the top and sides of each salmon fillet with the marinade. Place a slice of lemon on top of each fillet for added flavor and garnish.
- Bake the salmon uncovered in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The thickest part of the salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) on an instant-read thermometer.
- Remove the salmon from the oven and serve immediately. Enjoy your perfectly baked salmon with your favorite sides!
Tips
- Check for doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy and avoid overcooking the salmon.
- Room temperature fish: Let the salmon sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
- Line the pan: Lining the baking sheet helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Customize the marinade: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, parsley, or Dijon mustard to suit your taste preferences.
Variations and Substitutions
- Herb swaps: Substitute parsley with fresh dill, basil, or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
- Citrus options: Try orange or lime slices instead of lemon for a unique twist.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the marinade for a touch of heat.
- Butter substitute: Replace olive oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: Yes, but make sure to thaw the salmon completely in the refrigerator before cooking for best results.
Q: How can I tell if the salmon is done?
A: The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an opaque color throughout. An internal temperature of 145°F indicates it’s fully cooked.
Q: Can I grill this salmon instead?
A: Absolutely! This marinade works well for grilling. Cook the salmon over medium heat for 3-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the baked salmon with a side of roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.
- Pair it with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a light and refreshing meal.
- Add a starch like quinoa, wild rice, or mashed potatoes to round out the dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.
- Versatile: The marinade can be customized to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
- Minimal Cleanup: Using foil or parchment makes for an effortless cleanup process.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This flavorful and elegant dish is sure to impress family and guests alike!
Baked Salmon Recipe
4
servings5
minutes15
minutesIngredients
1 1/2 lb salmon fillet, cut into 4 portions
2 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
2 Tbsp extra light olive oil or vegetable oil
2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, minced, pressed, or grated
1/2 Tbsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp fine sea salt
1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
1/2 lemon, sliced into 4 rings for garnish
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with a silicone liner, parchment paper, or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the parsley, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create a flavorful marinade.
- Using a brush or spoon, generously coat the top and sides of each salmon fillet with the marinade. Place a slice of lemon on top of each fillet for added flavor and garnish.
- Bake the salmon uncovered in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The thickest part of the salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) on an instant-read thermometer.
- Remove the salmon from the oven and serve immediately. Enjoy your perfectly baked salmon with your favorite sides!
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