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Best Baked Salmon Recipe

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4.2 from 14 reviews

This Best Baked Salmon recipe is a simple and flavorful way to enjoy tender and juicy salmon fillets. Featuring a buttery lemon garlic marinade and fresh herbs, it's perfect for a quick and healthy dinner that comes together in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Salmon

  • 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets

Seasoning and Marinade

  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • ½ tablespoon lemon juice (plus more lemon slices for garnish)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon finely chopped parsley
  • 1 teaspoon finely chopped dill

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Salmon: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Let the salmon fillets come to room temperature for about 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
  2. Mix Butter and Lemon Juice: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with ½ tablespoon of lemon juice. This mixture will add moisture and a bright tang to the salmon.
  3. Brush the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a baking dish. Brush each fillet thoroughly with the butter and lemon juice mixture to coat evenly.
  4. Add Garlic, Salt, and Pepper: Sprinkle the minced garlic over the salmon fillets, then season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance flavor.
  5. Bake the Salmon: Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. The fish should be cooked through and flakes easily with a fork but remains moist.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, sprinkle the finely chopped parsley and dill over the salmon fillets. Garnish with additional lemon slices if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Allowing salmon to come to room temperature before baking helps it cook more evenly.
  • Check doneness by ensuring the salmon flakes easily with a fork but is still moist inside.
  • Use fresh herbs for the best flavor, but dried can be substituted if needed (use half the amount).
  • This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
  • For a stronger lemon flavor, add a few lemon slices on top of the salmon before baking.