If you’re on the lookout for a dish that is as vibrant as it is simple, the Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe is exactly what you need in your dinner rotation. This recipe marries the fresh zing of lemon with tender, flaky salmon, all enhanced by a rich garlic butter that transforms a few basic ingredients into a joyous meal. It’s a perfect blend of bright citrus and savory goodness that feels light enough for any day but special enough to impress the whole table. Let me take you through this delightful kitchen adventure!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s fantastic about this Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe is that the ingredients are straightforward yet powerful, each playing a critical role in building the dish’s flavor and texture. From the silky butter to the fresh lemons and perfectly seasoned salmon, every component shines.
- Salmon fillets (20 ounces): Choose fresh, thick fillets for juicy flakes and rich flavor.
- 2 Lemons: Both juice and slices bring bright acidity and eye-catching color to the dish.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning the salmon evenly and enhancing natural flavors.
- Butter (3 tablespoons): Melts into the salmon for a silky, luscious finish.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds savory depth without overpowering the citrus notes.
- Optional chopped parsley or microgreens: These add a fresh, herbal pop and a gorgeous garnish.
How to Make Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is perfect for cooking the salmon gently, allowing it to stay moist while the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemons
Zest one lemon for that concentrated citrus aroma, then thinly slice both lemons into rounds. These slices will both flavor and decorate the salmon, infusing each bite with brightness.
Step 3: Create the Lemon Bed
Lay out a long strip of aluminum foil on a baking sheet and arrange half of your lemon slices down the center. This lemon cradle not only adds flavor but prevents the salmon from sticking as it cooks.
Step 4: Season the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets on top of the lemon slices. Sprinkle the kosher salt evenly and scatter the lemon zest over the fish to invite a sharp citrus lift in every bite.
Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter
Warm the butter in the microwave for about 30 seconds, then stir in the garlic powder. This simple mixture will coat the salmon with a buttery, garlicky richness that complements the lemon perfectly.
Step 6: Top the Salmon
Generously spoon or brush the garlic butter over each fillet, then lay the remaining lemon slices on top. These layers of lemon ensure the salmon absorbs maximum flavor while baking.
Step 7: Seal the Salmon in Foil
Fold the aluminum foil around the salmon to create a sealed packet. This locks in moisture and aroma, steaming the fillets to tender, flaky perfection. Use a second piece of foil if needed for full coverage.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the foil packet in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The salmon is done when it reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit inside, appearing opaque and flaking easily with a fork.
Step 9: Open and Enjoy
Carefully open the foil packet to release the fragrant steam. The salmon will be juicy, tender, and infused with all those lemon-garlic notes—a simple yet elegant meal awaits!
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped parsley or microgreens for a fresh, final touch that adds color and a hint of herbal brightness, making the dish as beautiful as it is delicious.
How to Serve Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley or vibrant microgreens wonderfully complement the flavors and add an inviting splash of green. A little zest or a thin lemon slice on top can also elevate the visual appeal and taste.
Side Dishes
Serve your baked lemon salmon alongside light, fresh sides such as steamed asparagus, roasted baby potatoes, or a crisp mixed greens salad. These pairings balance the richness of the salmon wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, plate the salmon on a bed of wilted spinach or quinoa, drizzle with the buttery lemon sauce from the foil, and serve with lemon wedges. This approach makes for an elegant, restaurant-style presentation right at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any baked lemon salmon left, let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to two days, making for a perfect next-day meal.
Freezing
The salmon freezes well if you want to keep it longer. Wrap the cooked fillets tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Use within one month for best quality.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the salmon in the oven at 275 degrees Fahrenheit, covered with foil, to avoid drying out the fish. This method preserves moisture and flavor much better than microwaving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the salmon fully in the refrigerator overnight before baking to ensure even cooking.
Is it necessary to use aluminum foil?
While aluminum foil helps seal in moisture and flavor, you can bake the salmon uncovered on a parchment-lined baking sheet for a firmer texture, though it won’t be as steamed and tender.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Definitely! Fresh dill, thyme, or a pinch of smoked paprika can add interesting layers of flavor to enhance this baked lemon salmon recipe.
What if I don’t have garlic powder?
You can substitute with freshly minced garlic or even garlic salt, but adjust the salt quantity accordingly if using garlic salt.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly?
The best way is to check with an instant-read thermometer; 145 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part signals perfectly cooked salmon. You can also look for the fish to flake easily and appear opaque throughout.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe is a true kitchen treasure — effortlessly simple yet bursting with fresh, comforting flavors that are sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, it promises a wonderfully delicious meal with minimal fuss. Dive in and enjoy every lemony, buttery bite!
Print
Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Baked Lemon Salmon recipe is a simple and flavorful dish perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Tender salmon fillets are baked on a bed of fresh lemon slices and topped with a garlic butter sauce, creating a moist and aromatic meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Garnished with optional parsley or microgreens, this recipe is both elegant and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Salmon and Seasoning
- 20 ounces salmon fillets
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Citrus and Butter
- 2 lemons
- 3 tablespoons butter
Optional Garnish
- Chopped parsley or microgreens for topping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for even baking of the salmon.
- Prepare Lemons: Zest one lemon to collect the flavorful outer skin for seasoning, then thinly slice both lemons into rounds to use as a bed and topping for the salmon.
- Set Up Foil Bed: Place a long strip of aluminum foil on a baking sheet and arrange half of the lemon slices in the center, creating a fragrant base for the salmon to rest on while cooking.
- Season Salmon: Lay the salmon fillets on the lemon slices and sprinkle with kosher salt and the freshly grated lemon zest to enhance the fresh, citrusy flavors.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: Melt the butter in the microwave for about 30 seconds, then stir in the garlic powder to infuse the butter with aromatic garlic flavor.
- Apply Garlic Butter and Add Lemon: Brush or spoon the garlic butter evenly over the salmon, then layer the remaining lemon slices on top to lock in moisture and add brightness.
- Seal Foil Pack: Fold the aluminum foil around the salmon to completely enclose it, using a second piece of foil if necessary, which helps steam the fish during baking and keeps it juicy.
- Bake the Salmon: Place the foil packet in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove and Unwrap: Carefully remove the salmon from the oven and open the foil to avoid steam burns, releasing the fragrant lemon aroma.
- Serve: Plate the salmon and garnish with chopped parsley or microgreens as desired, serving it immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh salmon fillets for the best taste and texture.
- If you don’t have garlic powder, finely minced garlic can be sautéed in the butter instead.
- Make sure the salmon is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption.
- You can add a splash of white wine or a few capers inside the foil for additional flavor.
- The foil packet helps retain moisture and makes clean-up quick and easy.
