Description

A quick and easy 15-minute baked salmon recipe featuring juicy fillets topped with lemon slices, butter, garlic, and herbs. This forgiving method ensures moist, flaky fish perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

4 salmon fillets (approx. 6 ounces each, center-cut)
2 fresh lemons (1 for juice, 1 for slicing)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried dill (or fresh parsley)
Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and remove any pin bones. Place fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, dried dill, salt, and pepper to form a loose paste.
Spread the butter mixture generously over the top of each salmon fillet. Drizzle with olive oil.
Place thin lemon slices on top of the salmon and squeeze the juice from the second lemon over the fillets.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Remove from oven and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook the salmon; it should be opaque but still moist in the center. Let the fish rest for 2 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute. If using frozen salmon, ensure it is completely thawed and patted dry to prevent steaming.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 fillet with lemon
Calories: 350
Sugar: 1
Sodium: 300
Fat: 22
Saturated Fat: 8
Carbohydrates: 3
Fiber: 1
Protein: 25

Keywords: baked salmon, lemon salmon, easy dinner, healthy seafood, weeknight meals, gluten-free, low-carb