Baked Lemon Herb Salmon

 Baked Lemon Herb Salmon: The Perfect 20-Minute Dinner

Are you searching for a dinner that is healthy, incredibly flavorful, and takes under 20 minutes from prep to table? You've found it! This Baked Lemon Herb Salmon recipe is the definition of simple elegance.

Salmon is already a nutritional powerhouse, but when coated in a bright, fragrant blend of fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon, it transforms into a deeply satisfying, moist, and flaky masterpiece. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight yet impressive enough to serve guests.

The best part? It's all done on one sheet pan, guaranteeing minimal cleanup. Ditch the dry, boring baked fish and say hello to your new favorite weeknight ritual!

The Secret to Moist, Flaky Salmon

The key to preventing dry salmon is a high oven temperature and a short cook time. Baking at 400°F (200°C) allows the outside to set quickly while the inside remains moist. Additionally, using a rich oil and acid-based marinade, like this lemon-herb mix, locks in the natural juices.

Recipe: Baked Lemon Herb Salmon

This recipe serves 4 people.

Ingredients

Item	Quantity	Description
Salmon Fillets	4 (6 oz each)	Skin on or off, about 1 inch thick
Olive Oil	2 tablespoons	Extra virgin recommended
Fresh Lemon Juice	2 tablespoons	About 1 lemon
Garlic	3 cloves	Minced
Fresh Dill	1 tablespoon	Chopped
Fresh Parsley	1 tablespoon	Chopped
Dried Thyme	1 teaspoon
Salt and Pepper	To taste
Lemon Slices	1 lemon, thinly sliced	For topping

Instructions

1. Prep and Marinade

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for the easiest cleanup.

2. Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with a paper towel. Place them skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh dill, fresh parsley, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.

4. Brush or spoon the entire mixture evenly over the top of the salmon fillets, ensuring they are fully coated.

2. Bake

1. Place a few thin slices of fresh lemon on top of each salmon fillet.

2. Bake for 12-15 minutes. The exact cooking time depends on the thickness of your fillets.

3. The salmon is done when it is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

3. Finish and Serve

1. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the salmon rest for 2 minutes.

2. Serve immediately.

3. For a beautiful presentation, garnish with extra fresh parsley or dill before serving.

Pro Tips & Pairing

Pro Tip	Description
Choose Quality	The flavor of this dish relies on the salmon. Look for bright pink-orange, firm fillets.
Don't Overcook	Use a meat thermometer if you are unsure! Pulling the salmon at 140°F and letting it rest will ensure it reaches 145°F and stays perfectly moist.
Simple Sides	Pair this salmon with roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or a simple side of fluffy rice.
Swap Herbs	If you don't have fresh dill, you can substitute other herbs like chives or basil for a different flavor profile.

If you give this recipe a try, don't forget to share your photos!