Go Back
To make this dish, gather these simple ingredients: - 4 fresh salmon fillets - 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 3 cloves of garlic, finely minced - 2 medium lemons (one for juicing, one sliced into rounds) - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary - Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, roughly chopped (for garnish) When making Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon, fresh salmon gives the best flavor. Fresh salmon has a bright, clean taste. It cooks well and stays moist. If you can't find fresh salmon, frozen is a great option. Frozen salmon holds its flavor and nutrients well. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before cooking. Always check for a fresh smell, whether fresh or frozen. If you don’t have every ingredient, here are some easy swaps: - Use avocado oil instead of olive oil for a different flavor. - If you don't have fresh garlic, garlic powder works too. Use 1 teaspoon. - For the herbs, you can try dill or basil if thyme and rosemary are not on hand. - Lime juice can replace lemon juice for a zesty twist. - If you want a different fish, try trout or sea bass; they work well too. These tips help you adapt the recipe to what you have at home. Enjoy cooking! First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for even cooking. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients. You need fresh salmon fillets, olive oil, garlic, lemons, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Set these items on your workspace for easy access. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, and juice from one lemon. Add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk to blend everything well. This mixture will bring bright flavor to the salmon. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the salmon fillets on the sheet with the skin side down. Make sure they are spaced apart. Pour the garlic-lemon mixture over each fillet, coating them well. Place lemon slices on top for added flavor. Bake the salmon for 12 to 15 minutes. It's ready when it flakes easily with a fork. Let it rest for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley. Enjoy this simple and flavorful dish! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. To cook salmon just right, keep an eye on the time. Bake it for 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The fish should flake easily when done. Use a fork to check the texture. If it falls apart, it's perfect! Always check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safety. To boost the taste, use fresh herbs like parsley or dill. You can mix fresh herbs into the garlic-lemon marinade. Dried herbs like thyme and rosemary also work well. They add depth and richness. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper to bring all the flavors together. Serve your salmon with sides that balance the flavors. Try steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs nicely too. For a hearty option, serve the salmon over a bed of rice or quinoa. This makes for a colorful and satisfying meal. For more details, check the Full Recipe. {{image_4}} You can change the flavor of your salmon with different marinades. Try a soy sauce mix for a salty taste. A honey mustard blend adds sweetness. You can also use a spicy harissa paste for a kick. Each marinade gives the salmon a unique twist. If you don’t want to bake, grilling is a great choice. It adds a nice char and smoky flavor. Just preheat your grill and cook the salmon for about 6-8 minutes per side. Pan-searing is another option. Heat oil in a pan, place the salmon skin-side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes before flipping. Each method makes the salmon tasty in its own way. Pairing vegetables with your salmon can enhance the meal. Asparagus and green beans are fresh choices. Roasted tomatoes add a sweet burst. You can also serve salmon with a simple salad of mixed greens. These veggies balance the dish and add color to your plate. To keep your baked salmon fresh, allow it to cool first. Once cooled, place the salmon in an airtight container. Make sure to seal it tightly. Leftovers can stay in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the salmon. Wrap it in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. This method helps prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheating them properly is key. To keep the salmon moist, use your oven. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes. Check if it's warm all the way through. You can also use a microwave. Heat it on low power for short bursts. This method helps to avoid overcooking. For storing baked salmon, choose containers made of glass or BPA-free plastic. These materials keep the food fresh longer. Look for containers with tight lids to avoid spills or air exposure. If freezing, use heavy-duty freezer bags for better protection against cold air. Remember to label each container with the date for easy tracking. I love serving baked lemon garlic salmon with fresh sides. Here are my top picks: - Steamed green beans - Roasted asparagus - Garlic mashed potatoes - Quinoa salad - Rice pilaf These sides add color and flavor. They balance the rich taste of salmon. You can also add a light salad for extra crunch. To check if salmon is cooked, use a fork. Gently press down on the fish. If it flakes easily, it is done. The salmon should also have a bright pink color inside. The USDA recommends an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety. Yes, you can use other fish! Here are some great choices: - Trout - Mahi-mahi - Cod - Tilapia Each fish has its own taste. Adjust cooking times as needed. Just make sure to follow the same lemon and garlic mix for flavor. This article covered how to make baked lemon garlic salmon easily. We discussed choosing fresh or frozen salmon and shared helpful ingredient substitutes. I provided a step-by-step guide for prepping, baking, and serving. You now have tips for perfect cooking and flavor enhancements. We also explored variations, storage advice, and answered common questions. Enjoy making this dish! With these methods and tips, you can create a delicious meal every time.

Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon with this easy recipe! This dish features fresh salmon fillets coated in a zesty garlic-lemon marinade, baked to perfection in just 25 minutes. With simple ingredients and stunning presentation tips, it's perfect for any occasion. Ready to impress your taste buds? Click through for detailed instructions and mouthwatering photos that will inspire your culinary adventure!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

4 fresh salmon fillets

4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

3 cloves of garlic, finely minced

2 medium lemons (one for juicing, one sliced into rounds)

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, roughly chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.

    In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, the juice squeezed from one lemon, thyme, rosemary, along with a generous pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until thoroughly blended.

      On a parchment-lined baking sheet, arrange the salmon fillets with the skin-side facing down. Make sure to space them evenly for even cooking.

        Take the garlic-lemon mixture and generously pour it over the salmon fillets, using a spoon to ensure each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.

          Strategically place the lemon slices on top of the salmon fillets, which will not only add flavor but also create an appealing visual presentation.

            Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 12-15 minutes. The salmon is ready when it effortlessly flakes apart with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

              Once cooked, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the salmon to rest for a few minutes to let the juices settle.

                Just before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the salmon for a vibrant finish and added freshness.

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the salmon fillets on beautiful dinner plates, placing a lemon slice on each fillet alongside seasonal vegetables or a bed of rice for a complete meal.

                    Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4