Introduction

This baked salmon recipe is simple, flavorful, and perfectly flaky every time. With fresh herbs and a zesty lemon-garlic marinade, it makes an easy weeknight dinner that feels special.

Baked Salmon (Easy & Flaky!) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

4 6-oz salmon fillets
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced or crushed
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Lemon slices (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (204 degrees C).
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, dill, and parsley until well combined.
Step 3: Arrange the salmon fillets in a baking dish or on a baking sheet with space between each. Pat the fillets dry with paper towels.
Step 4: Brush both sides of the salmon fillets with the olive oil mixture. Season with sea salt and black pepper on each side. If you like, place a thin lemon slice on top of each fillet.
Step 5: Bake the salmon for 10-15 minutes, checking for doneness with a thermometer. Aim for 135-140 degrees F (57-60 degrees C) for perfectly moist and flaky salmon, or adjust based on your preferred doneness level.

Tips & Variations

For added flavor, marinate the salmon in the olive oil mixture for 30 minutes before baking.
Swap fresh dill and parsley for basil or cilantro for a different herb profile.
Use skin-on fillets and bake skin-side down for easier handling and added crispness.
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftover baked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 275 degrees F (135 degrees C) until warmed through, or enjoy cold in salads or sandwiches.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the salmon in the refrigerator before baking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The best way is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Salmon is done when it reaches 135-140 degrees F for moist, flaky fish. It should flake easily with a fork but still appear slightly translucent in the center.

Baked Salmon (Easy & Flaky!) Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 149 reviews

This easy baked salmon recipe yields perfectly flaky, moist fillets infused with fresh herbs and a zesty lemon garlic marinade. Ideal for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner, the salmon is seasoned simply and baked to your preferred doneness at 400°F, delivering tender and flavorful results every time.

Author: Stella
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

4 6-oz salmon fillets

Marinade and Seasoning

1/4 cup olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 cloves garlic (minced or crushed)
1 tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Lemon slices (optional)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 degrees Celsius) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking the salmon perfectly.
Prepare Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped dill, and parsley to form a flavorful herb marinade.
Arrange Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on a baking dish or baking sheet with some space between each piece. Pat the fillets dry with paper towels to help the seasoning adhere better.
Season Fillets: Brush both sides of the salmon fillets generously with the olive oil marinade. Sprinkle sea salt and black pepper evenly on both sides. If desired, place a thin lemon slice on top of each fillet for added flavor and presentation.
Bake: Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. Use a thermometer to check internal temperature: 120-125°F for medium rare, 130°F for medium, 135°F for medium well, or 140-145°F for well done. For perfectly moist and flaky salmon, 135-140°F is recommended.

Notes

For best results, use fresh, sashimi-grade salmon fillets.
Patting the fillets dry before seasoning helps achieve a better crust and flavor absorption.
Adjust lemon juice and fresh herbs according to your taste preference.
Use a meat thermometer to check salmon doneness for perfect texture without overcooking.
Lemon slices are optional but add a nice aromatic finish.
Leftover baked salmon makes a great addition to salads or sandwiches the next day.

Keywords: baked salmon, easy salmon recipe, flaky salmon, healthy salmon, lemon garlic salmon, herb salmon, quick dinner, seafood baking