Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

For the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• Juice of 1 large lemon
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish or baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes until well combined.

Step 3: Arrange the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish, leaving a little space between each piece.

Pour the lemon garlic butter sauce evenly over the salmon, making sure each fillet is well coated. Arrange the lemon slices on top and around the salmon.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 18–20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

For a lightly browned top, broil the salmon for the final 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Step 5: Rest the Salmon

Remove the baking dish from the oven and allow the salmon to rest for 3–5 minutes. Spoon the warm lemon garlic butter sauce over each fillet before serving.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve with extra lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.

Enjoy immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Tips for the Best Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon

• Use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture.
• Pat the salmon dry before seasoning to help the sauce adhere.
• Fresh lemon juice and garlic provide the brightest, most vibrant flavor.
• Avoid overcooking the salmon to keep it moist and flaky.
• Let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving to retain its juices.
• Line the baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Add fresh dill or thyme for additional herb flavor.

Delicious Variations

Honey Lemon Garlic Salmon

Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the butter sauce for a sweet and savory glaze.

Parmesan Crusted Salmon

Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the salmon during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Herb Butter Salmon

Mix fresh dill, parsley, and chives into the butter sauce for extra freshness.

Spicy Lemon Garlic Salmon

Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.

Mediterranean Salmon

Top with cherry tomatoes, olives, and capers before baking.

Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Salmon

Cook the prepared salmon in a preheated air fryer at 390°F (199°C) for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness.

Storage

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven or microwave until warmed through. Freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon pairs perfectly with:

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Steamed jasmine rice
• Roasted asparagus
• Green beans
• Buttered broccoli
• Quinoa
• Garden salad
• Roasted baby potatoes
• Garlic bread
• Lemon herb couscous

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Calcium: 4% DV
• Iron: 8% DV
• Potassium: 720mg