Lemon And Garlic Baked Salmon Recipe

Gather round, fellow food enthusiasts, as I reveal my secret game-changer for those cozy dinner evenings: my go-to, super simple lemon-garlic salmon recipe. Trust me, with rich flavors of garlic, zesty lemon, and a hint of herbal goodness, this dish comes together like a culinary love letter straight from your oven—and it’s guaranteed to impress even your most discerning foodie friends.

I love whipping up my Lemon and Garlic Baked Salmon, perfect for a nutritious meal loaded with flavors. The zing of freshly squeezed lemon juice and a hint of zest, combined with aromatic garlic, really brings out the best in the salmon fillets.

Paired with olive oil and herbs like dried oregano and thyme, this dish is not only delicious but high in omega-3 fatty acids, making it a weeknight favorite.

Lemon And Garlic Baked Salmon Recipe Ingredients

• Salmon Fillets: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein, they support heart health.
• Olive Oil: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats, known for anti-inflammatory properties.
• Lemon Juice: Adds a tangy flavor, rich in vitamin C, boosts immune function.
• Garlic: Packed with antioxidants, promotes heart health and immune system support.
• Lemon Zest: Enhances flavor with citrus aroma, high in antioxidants and vitamin C.
• Dried Oregano: Adds depth with earthy tones, contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Lemon And Garlic Baked Salmon Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 whole lemon, sliced into rounds
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

How to Make this Lemon And Garlic Baked Salmon Recipe

1. Get your oven ready at a temperature of 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.

2. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme to prepare the marinade.

3. Arrange the salmon fillets on the baking sheet that has been prepared for the purpose, with the skin side facing downward.

4. Generously coat each salmon fillet with the marinade, being sure to distribute the garlic and herbs evenly over the fish.

5. Position the lemon slices on and around the salmon fillets for enhanced taste.

6. Allow the flavors to infuse in the salmon for about 10 minutes.

7. Cook the salmon in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes. It is done when it flakes easily and evenly with a fork. You can test a thicker part of the fillet. If it is done, most likely the entire fillet is done.

8. At times, when you are baking, you will want to take some of the pan juices and spoon them over the fish to keep it moist.

9. After cooking, take the salmon out of the oven and allow it to sit for a few minutes.

10. If you prefer, you can sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving. The salmon really is quite good as it comes, but you can also serve it with side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:
— Brown rice or quinoa with peas and lemon zest
— Roasted vegetables, especially Brussels sprouts
— Mashed or roasted potatoes (go for something hearty that can stand up to the richness of the salmon)
— A simple arugula salad with a lemony dressing

Lemon And Garlic Baked Salmon Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Parchment paper
4. Small bowl
5. Measuring spoons
6. Lemon zester or grater
7. Garlic press or knife
8. Spoon (for mixing marinade and basting)
9. Fork (for testing doneness)
10. Knife (for slicing lemon)
11. Cutting board

FAQ

• Can I use frozen salmon fillets?You can use frozen salmon fillets. Just ensure that they are thawed completely in the fridge before you use them.
• Is there a substitute for fresh lemon juice?Using bottled lemon juice is acceptable, but fresh lemon juice is recommended if you want the best taste.
• How do I know when the salmon is cooked?When the salmon flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145 °F (63 °C), then it is done.
• Can I use other herbs instead of oregano and thyme?Of course, you can replace or supplement herbs with different flavor profiles, like dill, basil, or rosemary.
• How long will leftovers keep in the refrigerator?Salmon that is not fresh may last in a fridge for 1-3 days, if it is kept in an airtight container. After that, it is best to freeze the fish or eat it. One part of the fish that has no preservatives and is just as bad as any leftover for the earth is the thin layer of plastic wrap that covers the fish.
• Can I grill the salmon instead of baking it?You can certainly grill the salmon instead. Just be sure to oil the grill grates and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side over medium heat. This basic method yields delicious results, but if you want to kick things up a notch, try some of the following embellishments.
• What sides pair well with this dish?Baked salmon with lemon and garlic is a great accompaniment to roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or quinoa.

Lemon And Garlic Baked Salmon Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Olive Oil: Substitute with avocado oil or melted butter for a more flavorful experience.
Lime Juice: Use lemon juice or white wine vinegar for a different acidic note.
Garlic: For a milder taste, substitute with garlic powder: 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
Salt: Consider using sea salt or Himalayan pink salt for a slightly different taste.
Oregano: Replace with Italian seasoning or basil to achieve a different herb profile.

Pro Tips

1. Marinade in Advance: For deeper flavor, consider marinating the salmon fillets for 30 minutes to an hour in the fridge before cooking. This allows the garlic and herbs to penetrate the fish more thoroughly.