Bright, zesty, and effortlessly elegant, this Lemony Salmon recipe is a weeknight dinner winner that feels like a gourmet treat. Featuring tender salmon fillets bathed in a luscious blend of fresh lemon juice, fragrant garlic, and silky olive oil, this dish is infused with vibrant citrus flavor in every bite. A sprinkle of lemon zest and a touch of optional butter add depth, while a finishing flourish of fresh parsley keeps it light and refreshing. Ready in just 25 minutes, this oven-baked salmon guarantees perfectly flaky, melt-in-your-mouth results every time. Ideal for pairing with roasted vegetables, fluffy rice, or a simple salad, this versatile recipe is as easy as it is delicious—perfect for busy evenings or a light, wholesome meal.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Place them skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Zest one of the lemons to get about 1 teaspoon of zest, then juice both lemons. Set the zest and juice aside for later.
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until emulsified.
Brush the lemon-garlic mixture generously over the surface of the salmon fillets, ensuring even coverage.
If desired, place small pieces of butter on top of each fillet to add richness. This step is optional but recommended for extra flavor.
Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should read 140°F (60°C) when done.
While the salmon bakes, chop the fresh parsley finely.
Once the salmon is done cooking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top for a fresh finish.
Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a crisp salad. Enjoy your Lemony Salmon!
Calories |
1808 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 128.5 g | 165% | |
| Saturated Fat | 32.8 g | 164% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 460 mg | 153% | |
| Sodium | 2773 mg | 121% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 14.6 g | 5% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.0 g | 14% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.1 g | ||
| Protein | 152.0 g | 304% | |
| Vitamin D | 89.6 mcg | 448% | |
| Calcium | 127 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 5.1 mg | 28% | |
| Potassium | 2747 mg | 58% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.