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Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Ready in 20 minutes – perfect for quick healthy dinners
• Packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids
• Minimal cleanup – everything bakes on one sheet pan
• Naturally gluten-free, keto-friendly, and high in protein
• Bright, fresh flavors that everyone loves

Tools You'll Need

• Baking sheet or sheet pan
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Pastry brush (optional)
• Measuring spoons

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• 4 (6-oz) salmon fillets, skin on or off
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Lemon Garlic Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
• Lemon slices or wedges
• Additional lemon zest

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
2. Prepare Salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if they have skin. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Make Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, honey (if using), oregano, paprika, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
4. Coat Salmon: Spoon the lemon garlic sauce evenly over each salmon fillet, making sure to coat the tops and sides.
5. Add Lemon Slices: Place thin lemon slices on top of each salmon fillet if desired.
6. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your fillets.
7. Broil (Optional): For a golden top, switch to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
8. Garnish & Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with fresh herbs and additional lemon zest. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Pro Tips

• Always pat salmon dry before seasoning for better sauce adhesion
• Don't overcook – salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork
• Use fresh lemon juice and garlic for the brightest flavor
• Let salmon rest for 2-3 minutes after baking for juicier results
• For crispier skin, start skin-side down in a hot skillet before baking

Recipe Variations

• Mediterranean Style: Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta
• Herb-Crusted: Mix breadcrumbs with herbs for a crunchy topping
• Creamy Lemon Dill: Add 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt to the sauce
• Spicy Lemon Garlic: Increase red pepper flakes or add chili powder
• Sheet Pan Meal: Add asparagus, broccoli, or potatoes to bake alongside

FAQs

How do I know when salmon is done?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches 145°F internally.

Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, thaw completely in the refrigerator first and pat very dry.

What sides go well with this salmon?
Rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, salad, or crusty bread all work beautifully.

Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
Yes, bake and store in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently.

Skin on or off?
Either works! Skin helps keep the salmon moist and adds crispiness if seared first.

This Lemon Garlic Baked Salmon proves that healthy eating can be both simple and spectacular. In just 20 minutes, you get a meal that's nourishing, flavorful, and impressive enough for guests.

The combination of bright lemon, aromatic garlic, and buttery salmon creates a dish that feels luxurious while being incredibly easy to prepare. It's the kind of recipe you'll turn to again and again when you want something delicious without the fuss.

If you try this recipe or any other from our site, we would greatly appreciate you taking the time to comment and rate the dish! Your feedback helps us create better recipes for everyone.