If you’re looking for a dish that balances elegance, nutrition, and vibrant flavors, the Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs is about to become your new weeknight hero. Imagine tender, flaky salmon fillets infused with the brightness of lemon, aromatic garlic, and a chorus of fresh herbs—it’s the kind of meal that feels special but comes together in under half an hour. Whether you’re serving guests or nourishing your family, this dish is as reliable as it is delicious, letting simple ingredients shine in a truly memorable way.

Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs truly lies in the quality and simplicity of its ingredients. Each component brings its own flair—zippy acidity, herbal freshness, savory richness—and together, they create a harmony you’ll crave again and again.

Salmon fillets: Choose skin-on, center-cut fillets for the best flavor and texture—about 6 ounces each is perfect for a single portion.
Olive oil: A drizzle adds richness and helps seal in moisture for perfectly juicy salmon.
Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is a must for that bright, tangy lift in every bite.
Lemon zest: It packs a citrusy punch and really intensifies the lemon essence throughout the dish.
Garlic: Minced garlic brings warmth and depth, flavoring the fish beautifully without overpowering it.
Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and garden-fresh taste—don’t skimp on this!
Fresh dill: The sweet, grassy notes of dill pair naturally with salmon and liven up the overall flavor profile.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors and drawing out the natural sweetness of the fish.
Lemon slices: A gorgeous garnish that also gently steams the top of the salmon as it bakes.

How to Make Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This step not only makes cleanup a breeze, but also helps prevent sticking and ensures every fillet slides right off in one beautiful piece.

Step 2: Mix the Marinade

In a small bowl, combine your olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, parsley, dill, salt, and black pepper. Don’t worry if it looks a bit chunky—those bits of zest and herb are going to cling to the salmon and give you pops of flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Prepare the Salmon Fillets

Lay the salmon fillets skin-side down on your prepared baking sheet, spaced a little apart. Using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, coat each fillet generously with the herb mixture, pressing lightly so the marinade sticks. The aroma at this stage is already incredible!

Step 4: Garnish and Bake

Top each fillet with a thin lemon slice. Slide the tray into the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). You’ll notice the lemon slices helping to lock in moisture for extra tender results.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Finish this Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs by transferring the fillets to plates and, if you like, showering them with a final sprinkle of fresh herbs. Serve hot for the most satisfying melt-in-your-mouth experience.

How to Serve Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or dill adds not only beautiful color but a fresh flavor boost to your Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs. A few extra lemon wedges let everyone dial up the citrus, too. If you’re feeling fancy, edible flowers or a drizzle of good extra-virgin olive oil can make this dish truly shine.

Side Dishes

This salmon pairs beautifully with just about anything: think fluffy rice, crisp roasted potatoes, or a vibrant green salad. For a Mediterranean twist, try couscous with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers—or keep things light with steamed asparagus or sautéed green beans.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning dinner-party impression, serve Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs on a large platter lined with arugula or mixed greens, nestled among extra lemon slices. Or create personalized plates with a bed of quinoa, topped with your salmon and a shower of herbs for a fresh, colorful effect.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs, let the fillets cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll stay delicious in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making for easy lunches or salad toppers later on.

Freezing

Baked salmon freezes quite well! Wrap cooled fillets tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then store in a freezer-safe bag. For best flavor, enjoy your frozen Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs within one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

To gently reheat salmon and keep it moist, place it on a foil-lined baking sheet and warm in a 275°F (135°C) oven for about 10–12 minutes. Or, for lunch in a hurry, cover with a damp paper towel and microwave in short bursts at 50 percent power.

FAQs

Can I make Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs using frozen salmon?

Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw the salmon fillets in the refrigerator overnight and pat them dry before adding the herb mixture, so the flavors can really soak in and the texture stays just right.

Is it okay to use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Fresh herbs are always best for that lively flavor, but in a pinch, you can use half the amount of dried parsley and dill. Just rub them between your fingers before mixing in to release their essential oils.

What’s the best way to keep the salmon from drying out?

The secret is not to overbake! Check at the 12-minute mark—the salmon should flake easily with a fork and look slightly opaque in the center. The lemon garnish and olive oil also help keep everything moist and succulent.

How do I know if my salmon is fully cooked?

A thermometer inserted into the thickest part should read 145°F (63°C) when it’s done. Or, just check for easy flaking and a vibrant pink color inside.

Can I make this recipe for a larger crowd?

Definitely! You can double or even triple the Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs recipe—just use a larger baking sheet or two, and be sure not to overcrowd the fillets so they bake evenly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a reliable, dinner-worthy recipe that never fails to impress, this Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs is a kitchen staple you’ll want to revisit over and over again. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to for busy weeknights and special occasions alike—give it a try, and see why everyone falls in love with this crowd-pleaser!

Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs Recipe