Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe

There is something truly magical about a perfectly cooked salmon that’s infused with bright and zesty flavors, which is exactly what you get with this fantastic Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe. Picture tender, flaky salmon nestled on a bed of fresh lemon slices, all bathed in garlicky butter that melts into every crevice as it bakes. This dish isn’t just delicious; it’s effortlessly elegant and fast, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without a fuss. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you—it’s a total game-changer for how simple and flavorful salmon can be!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe lies in the simplicity and accessibility of the ingredients. Each item plays an important role, from adding brightness and richness to enhancing texture and aroma, ensuring a perfectly balanced dish every time.

• Salmon fillets (20 ounces): Choose fresh, skin-on or skinless—your preference—for moist, flaky fish with a hearty texture.
• Fresh lemons (2): One for zesting and both sliced to infuse bright, citrusy flavor and keep the salmon juicy.
• Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning, it draws out the flavors and enhances the natural taste of the salmon.
• Butter (3 tablespoons): Adds luscious richness and helps carry the garlic and lemon flavors throughout the fish.
• Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a warm, savory depth without overpowering the delicate salmon.
• Optional – chopped parsley or microgreens: Used as a fresh, vibrant garnish that adds color and a mild herbal note.

How to Make Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is perfect for cooking the salmon through gently while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemons

Zest one of the lemons carefully to capture that intense citrus aroma, then slice both lemons thinly into delicate rounds. These slices will cradle the salmon and infuse it with subtle lemon essence as it bakes.

Step 3: Create a Lemon Bed

Lay a strip of aluminum foil on a baking sheet and arrange half of your lemon slices in the center. This lemon bed is your secret weapon for preventing the salmon from sticking and for layering in extra flavor right from the start.

Step 4: Season the Salmon

Place your salmon fillets on top of the lemon bed. Sprinkle the kosher salt evenly over the fish, then scatter the fresh lemon zest to add bursts of vibrant citrus flavor with every bite.

Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Butter

Melt the butter briefly in the microwave until just liquid, then whisk in the garlic powder. This simple mixture will coat the salmon, sealing in moisture and adding a garlicky richness that brings all the flavors together.

Step 6: Top the Salmon

Use a spoon or pastry brush to generously spread the garlic butter over the salmon. Next, layer the remaining lemon slices on top for an extra layer of citrus aroma and a stunning presentation after baking.

Step 7: Seal and Enclose

Fold the aluminum foil over the salmon to create a tightly sealed packet, trapping all the steam and heat inside. If you need more coverage, feel free to use a second piece of foil—no one wants any precious juices escaping!

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the salmon for 20 to 25 minutes or until it’s cooked through to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. You’ll know it’s ready when the flesh flakes easily and has turned opaque; this is when the magic happens and all the flavors join in harmony.

Step 9: Unveil the Dish

Carefully open the foil packet to reveal your perfectly cooked salmon nestled among warm, juicy lemon slices. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water, and the buttery sauce glistening on top is irresistible.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle some chopped parsley or microgreens on top for a pop of color and a fresh crunch. These tiny touches elevate the dish and make it all the more inviting to dig into.

How to Serve Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or delicate microgreens complement the lemony tang and buttery richness of your salmon. They add a burst of color and a subtle herbal freshness that makes each bite more refreshing and visually appealing.

Side Dishes

Pair this salmon with steamed asparagus, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a light quinoa salad to keep the meal balanced and wholesome. The simplicity of the sides helps spotlight the salmon’s bright flavors without overwhelming the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a memorable meal, serve the salmon directly on the lemon foil—it’s rustic yet elegant. Or plate it atop a bed of fluffy couscous or wild rice to soak up every bit of that fragrant lemon-butter sauce. Adding a wedge of fresh lemon on the plate invites extra zest for those who crave it!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, store any leftover baked lemon salmon in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days, making it easy to enjoy quick lunches or light dinners.

Freezing

If you want to keep leftovers longer, wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil before freezing. Properly stored, it can last up to 2 months without losing its delicious texture and flavor.

Reheating

Gently reheat your salmon in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit, covered loosely with foil, to maintain moisture and prevent it from drying out. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the flaky texture, leaving the fish less tender.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even baking and the best texture.

Is it necessary to use aluminum foil?

Using foil helps to trap moisture and flavors, making the salmon extra tender and infused with lemon butter. You can bake without foil but expect a drier result.

Can I substitute the butter with olive oil?

Yes, olive oil is a great alternative if you prefer a lighter fat or are avoiding dairy. It will give a different but still delicious flavor.

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. The flesh should be opaque and no longer translucent.

Can I add other seasonings or herbs?

Definitely! Dill, thyme, or rosemary complement lemon and salmon beautifully. Just add them before baking or sprinkle fresh herbs on top after cooking.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely believe this Baked Lemon Salmon Recipe is one you’ll return to time and again. It combines incredibly simple ingredients with straightforward steps that deliver a dish bursting with flavor, moisture, and elegance. Whether cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this meal is an absolute winner. Give it a try—I promise it will brighten up your dinner table and quickly become a new favorite!

Print