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To make oven-baked lemon salmon, you need simple, fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need: - 2 salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz each) - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 1 large lemon (zested and juiced) - 3 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish) These ingredients work together to create a zesty, flavorful dish. The salmon fillets are the main star, bringing healthy omega-3 fats. The olive oil adds richness, while the lemon gives it a bright, fresh taste. Garlic and herbs like oregano and thyme enhance the flavor profile. You can also add optional garnishes like lemon wedges or extra parsley for a pop of color. Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference in taste. I always recommend using high-quality salmon for the best results. For the full recipe, check out the details above. First, you need to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for even cooking. While the oven warms up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze and keeps the salmon from sticking. Now, let’s make the marinade. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, and thyme. Mix well until all the ingredients blend together. The lemon zest and juice are very important. They add bright flavor and help tenderize the salmon. Next, arrange the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down. Make sure to leave space between each fillet. This allows for proper cooking. Use a brush or spoon to apply the lemon-garlic mixture evenly over the salmon. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque in the center. After baking, let the salmon rest for one minute. This helps keep it juicy. For a lovely finish, sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving. Enjoy your meal! For more details, check the Full Recipe. When picking salmon, look for bright, shiny skin. The fish should smell fresh, not fishy. Press your finger gently on the fillet. If it springs back, it's fresh. Try to choose sustainable salmon. Look for labels like "wild-caught" or "certified sustainable." These choices help protect our oceans. They also support healthier fish populations. To check if your salmon is done, use the flaking method. Take a fork and gently press down on the fillet. If it flakes easily, it’s ready! Avoid overcooking salmon. Salmon can go from perfect to dry quickly. Keep an eye on the cooking time. It usually takes about 12-15 minutes at 400°F. For plating, use a white plate to make the salmon pop. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for color. Drizzle any leftover lemon-garlic mixture over the fish for added flavor. Garnish with fresh parsley to add a touch of green. This makes your dish look even more inviting. A beautiful plate brings joy to the meal! For the full recipe, check out the complete instructions above. {{image_4}} You can play with herbs to change the flavor. Try dill or basil for a twist. Dill gives a fresh taste, while basil adds sweetness. You can mix and match these herbs. For instance, use dill with lemon for a bright flavor. Basil pairs well with garlic, too. These combinations make the dish unique. Lemon shines in this recipe, but other citrus fruits can work well. Consider using lime for a zesty kick. Lime gives the salmon a tangy twist. Orange is another option to try. It adds a sweet and fruity flavor. Each citrus fruit creates its own taste experience. These alternatives keep your meals exciting. Pairing sides with salmon enhances your meal. Roasted vegetables are a great choice. They add color and nutrition. Try asparagus, broccoli, or carrots. A light salad also complements salmon well. Use greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette. Quinoa or rice can round out the meal, too. These sides bring out the rich flavors of the salmon. For the full recipe, click here. To keep your oven-baked lemon salmon fresh, place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When packing, separate the salmon from any sides to keep flavors fresh. If you want to save it longer, you can freeze the salmon. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. This helps avoid freezer burn, and you can freeze it for up to three months. When reheating, I suggest using the oven for the best texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. This keeps the moisture in. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. Heat it in short bursts to avoid drying it out. A few seconds at a time works best. This way, you enjoy the flavor and moisture in every bite. Bake salmon at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. The center should look opaque. This time may vary based on the thickness of your fillets. Always check for doneness to avoid overcooking. You can use frozen salmon fillets. Just remember to thaw them first. Thawing is best done overnight in the fridge. If you're short on time, you can run the fillets under cold water for about 10-15 minutes. Pat them dry before cooking. This helps the marinade stick better. Oven-baked lemon salmon goes well with many side dishes. Consider serving it with steamed broccoli or asparagus. Both add color and nutrients. You can also pair it with a light salad or quinoa. These sides complement the lemon flavor nicely. For a hearty option, try roasted potatoes. They balance the meal well. In this post, we explored how to bake salmon perfectly. We covered the right ingredients like fresh salmon and spices. I shared steps for prep and making a great marinade. I also gave tips for choosing the best fish and cooking it well. Lastly, we looked at variations, storage, and FAQs. Baking salmon is simple and fun. With the right steps, you’ll enjoy a tasty meal. Try these tips and enjoy your delicious dish!

Oven-Baked Lemon Salmon

Discover the vibrant flavors of Zesty Oven-Baked Lemon Salmon with this easy recipe! In just 25 minutes, you'll transform simple salmon fillets into a delicious dish topped with a tangy lemon-garlic marinade and fresh herbs. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this meal is both nutritious and satisfying.
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Ingredients
  

2 salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz each)

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 large lemon (zested and juiced)

3 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). To prepare for easy cleanup, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

    In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until all the ingredients are well combined and create a cohesive marinade.

      Arrange the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each fillet to ensure even cooking.

        Using a brush or spoon, generously apply the lemon-garlic mixture over the tops of the salmon fillets, ensuring that they are evenly coated for maximum flavor.

          Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the salmon for approximately 12-15 minutes. The salmon is ready when it easily flakes apart with a fork and appears opaque in the center.

            Once the salmon has finished baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for a minute to enhance juiciness.

              Just before serving, sprinkle generously with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

                Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 25 mins | Servings: 2

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the salmon fillets on a white plate with lemon wedges on the side for an eye-catching presentation, and drizzle any remaining lemon-garlic mixture from the baking sheet on top for added flavor.