Baked Salmon with Lemon & Butter Recipe

Salmon is the superstar of healthy and delicious eating. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a seafood lover looking to expand your repertoire, baked salmon with lemon and butter is a go-to recipe for an effortless yet restaurant-quality meal. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and bursting with fresh, zesty flavor, this recipe achieves the perfect balance of health and taste.

Today, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making baked salmon that’s tender, flaky, and mouthwatering. Plus, you’ll learn tips for customizing the recipe while keeping it healthy. Let's get baking!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Whether you're a busy professional or an aspiring chef, this recipe checks all the right boxes:

• Healthy & Nutritious: Salmon is loaded with omega-3s, lean protein, and vital nutrients like Vitamin D and selenium.
• Quick & Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.
• Customizable: Add your creative touches with optional herbs, spices, or sides to make it uniquely yours.

No matter your skill level in the kitchen, this baked salmon recipe is hard to mess up and guarantees incredible results.

Ingredients You'll Need

This recipe keeps it simple with just a handful of pantry staples. Here's what you'll need:

Core Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets (approximately 6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 medium lemon, sliced into rounds
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves of minced garlic)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor:

• Fresh dill, parsley, or thyme for garnish
• A pinch of paprika or chili flakes for a little kick
• Olive oil instead of butter for a lighter feel

Feel free to pick wild-caught or farm-raised salmon based on your preferences and availability at your local store.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Baked Salmon

Step 1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2. Prepare the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry using a paper towel. Place them skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Drying your salmon ensures a better texture when baked.

Step 3. Season the Fillets

Brush the melted butter over the salmon fillets, making sure to coat the meat generously. Sprinkle the garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly on top for a simple yet flavorful seasoning.

Tip: Sprinkle some paprika for a subtle smoky flavor or chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Step 4. Add Lemon Slices

Place 2–3 lemon slices directly on top of each salmon fillet. These will infuse the fish with citrusy goodness as it bakes.

Step 5. Bake in the Oven

Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven. Bake the salmon for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. A good rule of thumb is to bake for 4–6 minutes per half-inch thickness.

Tip: The fish is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 6. Serve and Savor

Carefully remove the salmon from the oven and plate it. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, dill, or thyme for a burst of freshness. Pair your salmon with a healthy side dish like steamed broccoli, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad.

And voilà—you’re ready to dig in!

Tips for the Best Baked Salmon

1. Choose Fresh Salmon: Opt for the freshest fillets available, avoiding those with a fishy odor.
2. Don’t Overcook: Salmon cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid dry, overcooked fish.
3. Add Al Foil for Juicier Fish: Baking the salmon in a foil packet locks in moisture for extra-tender results.
4. Experiment with Herbs and Spices: Basil, oregano, cumin, or lemon zest can make your salmon uniquely yours.

Baking salmon is incredibly versatile, which means you can adapt the recipe according to your favorite flavors or dietary preferences.

Why Is Salmon a Nutritional Powerhouse?

For the health-conscious eater, salmon is a dream come true:

• Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Essential for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation.
• High-Quality Protein: Helps repair tissues and builds muscle with fewer calories compared to red meat.
• Packed with Micronutrients: Provides Vitamin B, potassium, and antioxidants like astaxanthin.

By incorporating baked salmon into your weekly meal plan, you’re making a tasty and healthful choice.

Recipe Pairing Ideas

Want to turn your meal into a feast? Here are some excellent sides and sauces that pair perfectly with this baked salmon recipe:

• Sides: Garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, wild rice pilaf
• Sauces: Tzatziki, honey mustard glaze, or herbed yogurt dressing

Mix and match your favorite sides to keep your meals fresh and exciting.

A Recipe Worth Trying Tonight

Baked salmon with lemon and butter is a recipe that embodies simplicity, health, and flavor. It's quick preparation and versatile taste make it a go-to choice for weeknight dinners, dinner parties, or even meal prepping for the week.

Why wait? Grab some fresh salmon fillets today and experience how easy it is to whip up a restaurant-worthy meal in your home kitchen.

Feeling inspired but need more ideas? Check out our other healthy recipes and meal planning tips to make your cooking even more enjoyable.

Happy cooking, and bon appétit!