Easy Baked Salmon with Lemon Herb Sauce Recipe

Discover a simple, flavorful Baked Salmon with Lemon Herb Sauce recipe perfect for a healthy and delicious weeknight dinner. This dish combines tender, moist salmon fillets baked to perfection and topped with a bright, zesty lemon herb sauce that enhances every bite. Whether you’re new to cooking fish or a seasoned home chef, this recipe offers an easy way to elevate your meal with fresh, vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids from salmon and fresh herbs that boost flavor without extra calories.
• Versatile Flavor Profile: The lemon herb sauce pairs beautifully with many sides and can be customized to taste.
• Minimal Cleanup: One baking sheet and a few simple tools mean less time washing dishes.
• Impressively Delicious: Tastes gourmet but requires minimal effort, sure to wow family and guests alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple but relies on fresh, quality ingredients for maximum flavor and texture. Each component brings something special, from the bright acidity of lemon to the aromatic herbs that finish the dish.

• Salmon Fillets: Fresh or thawed, skin-on or skinless, about 6 ounces per serving for perfect moisture.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and balances richness with a tangy pop.
• Garlic Cloves: Minced for a hint of savory depth and aromatic warmth.
• Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat that keeps the salmon moist and adds richness.
• Fresh Herbs: Parsley, dill, and thyme give the sauce its herbal freshness and vibrant color.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.
• Optional Butter: A small knob to enrich the sauce and make it silky smooth.

Variations for Baked Salmon with Lemon Herb Sauce

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, making it easy to tweak according to your pantry, dietary preferences, or mood. Feel free to experiment with these variations to keep things exciting!

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the sauce for a little heat.
• Dairy-Free: Skip the butter and use extra olive oil to keep the sauce creamy without dairy.
• Different Herbs: Swap out parsley and dill for basil or tarragon for a new flavor profile.
• Citrus Swap: Use lime or orange juice instead of lemon for a unique twist.
• Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or nuts on top before baking for added texture.

How to Make Baked Salmon with Lemon Herb Sauce

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it hot and ready for baking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy cleanup. Pat your salmon fillets dry with paper towels to help the sauce stick better and ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Herb Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, finely chopped parsley, dill, and thyme. Add salt and pepper to taste, and stir well to combine. If you like a richer sauce, gently melt a small amount of butter and whisk it in at this stage.

Step 3: Coat the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet skin-side down if your fillets have skin. Spoon the lemon herb sauce over the top generously, making sure each piece is well coated for maximum flavor during baking.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake the salmon in your preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on thickness, but the goal is a flaky interior that easily pulls apart with a fork. The lemon herb sauce will infuse the salmon as it bakes, creating a deliciously moist and aromatic dish.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest a couple of minutes. Spoon any remaining lemon herb sauce from the pan over the fillets before plating. This simple step boosts the flavor and adds a lovely glossy finish.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Salmon with Lemon Herb Sauce

• Choose Fresh Salmon: Opt for wild-caught or high-quality farmed salmon for the best taste and texture.
• Don’t Overcook: Salmon cooks quickly; watch for an opaque, flaky center to avoid dryness.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, dill, and thyme elevate the sauce more than dried versions.
• Adjust Acidity: Taste your lemon herb sauce before baking and add more lemon juice if you want extra zing.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the salmon a brief rest after baking to let juices redistribute for moist results.

How to Serve Baked Salmon with Lemon Herb Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh lemon wedges, a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, or a few capers make great garnishes to brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise. These little touches bring an inviting freshness straight to the table.

Side Dishes

This baked salmon pairs beautifully with a wide variety of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, quinoa salad, or even a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salmon over a bed of wilted spinach or alongside herbed couscous for an elegant presentation. You can also plate the fillets on a colorful platter with fresh lemon slices and herb sprigs for a vibrant, restaurant-style look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover baked salmon with lemon herb sauce in an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and foil or use freezer-safe containers. Frozen salmon is best consumed within 1 month for optimal texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a low oven (around 275°F or 135°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through to avoid drying out the fish. Microwaving is possible but may cause uneven heating or dryness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight for even cooking and the best texture.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Dried herbs can work in a pinch, but use about one-third the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. Fresh herbs provide the best flavor and color.

Can I bake the salmon without skin?

Absolutely! Skinless salmon works perfectly with this recipe and tends to absorb the lemon herb sauce even better.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s a great option for meal prep since it’s easy to reheat and pairs well with many make-ahead sides.

How can I make the sauce creamier?

Adding a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream after baking can give the sauce a creamy texture without overpowering the lemon herb flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Salmon with Lemon Herb Sauce recipe is a delightful way to bring freshness and ease into your dinner routine. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you’ll have a delicious, healthy meal on the table in no time. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dish!

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