Lemon Herb Salmon is a light, flavorful, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or healthy meal prep. Fresh salmon fillets are marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fragrant herbs, then baked or pan-seared to tender, flaky perfection.
This recipe highlights the delicate flavor of salmon while enhancing it with bright citrus and aromatic herbs. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that pairs beautifully with vegetables, grains, or a fresh salad. The combination of lemon and herbs keeps the salmon moist, aromatic, and irresistibly delicious.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this Lemon Herb Salmon recipe because it’s fresh, light, and packed with flavor. The salmon remains tender and juicy, while the lemon and herbs give it a vibrant, refreshing taste that isn’t overpowering.
It’s incredibly versatile — perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a plated meal for guests. The ease of preparation, combined with the sophisticated flavor, makes it one of my go-to recipes whenever I want a healthy, satisfying, and elegant meal.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
- Healthy and nutritious: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamins.
- Bright, fresh flavors: Lemon and herbs elevate the natural taste of salmon.
- Quick and easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes.
- Elegant yet simple: Perfect for both casual meals and dinner parties.
- Customizable: Serve with grains, vegetables, or salads to suit your preference.
Once you try it, you’ll see why lemon herb salmon is a classic favorite for both health-conscious and flavor-loving cooks.
Recipe Overview
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: American / Seafood
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
- Total Time: 25–30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin on or off
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dill (if using), thyme or oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Whisk until well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Salmon
- Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag.
- Pour the marinade over the salmon, ensuring each fillet is coated evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes to allow flavors to infuse.
Step 3: Preheat Oven or Pan
- For oven-baked salmon: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- For pan-seared salmon: Heat a large nonstick or stainless-steel skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 4: Cook the Salmon
Oven-Baked Method:
- Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if using skin-on.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Pan-Seared Method:
- Heat olive oil in the skillet.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down (if applicable) and cook for 4–5 minutes.
- Flip and cook an additional 3–4 minutes, until salmon is opaque and flakes easily.
Step 5: Serve
- Transfer salmon to plates.
- Garnish with fresh lemon slices and additional chopped herbs if desired.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
How to Serve
- Pair with:
- Steamed or roasted vegetables (broccoli, asparagus, or green beans)
- Quinoa, rice, or couscous
- Light salad with a lemon vinaigrette
- Drizzle with extra lemon juice or a small dollop of herb butter for added richness.
Recipe Tips
- Don’t overcook: Salmon cooks quickly; remove from heat when it flakes easily.
- Fresh herbs: Use fresh parsley, dill, and thyme for the best flavor.
- Room temperature: Let salmon sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking for even cooking.
- Skin-on option: Leaving skin on protects the fish and adds flavor.
- Make ahead: Prepare marinade in advance to save time.
Variations
- Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon: Add melted butter to the marinade for richer flavor.
- Spicy Lemon Herb Salmon: Add crushed red pepper flakes or paprika for heat.
- Mediterranean Style: Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and capers to the baking tray.
- Avocado Salsa: Top with fresh avocado salsa for a fresh twist.
- Honey Lemon Salmon: Mix 1 teaspoon honey into the marinade for a touch of sweetness.
Freezing and Storage
- Refrigeration: Store cooked salmon in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezing:
- Place cooled salmon fillets in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid overcooking.
Special Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet with parchment paper or foil
- Small mixing bowl for marinade
- Whisk or fork
- Nonstick or stainless-steel skillet (if pan-searing)
- Knife and cutting board
Conclusion
Lemon Herb Salmon is a healthy, flavorful, and elegant dish that’s quick and easy to prepare. With tender, flaky salmon fillets infused with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, it’s perfect for a light weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
This recipe is versatile, adaptable, and sure to impress anyone at your table. Once you try it, lemon herb salmon will become a staple in your recipe collection for healthy, delicious, and effortless meals.
Lemon Herb Salmon
Lemon Herb Salmon is a light, flavorful, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or healthy meal prep. Fresh salmon fillets are marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fragrant herbs, then baked or pan-seared to tender, flaky perfection.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade : In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dill (if using), thyme or oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined.
-
Step 2: Marinate the Salmon : Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the salmon, ensuring each fillet is coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes to allow flavors to infuse.
-
Step 3: Preheat Oven or Pan : For oven-baked salmon: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. For pan-seared salmon: Heat a large nonstick or stainless-steel skillet over medium-high heat.
-
Step 4: Cook the Salmon : Oven-Baked Method: Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if using skin-on. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork. Pan-Seared Method: Heat olive oil in the skillet. Place salmon fillets skin-side down (if applicable) and cook for 4–5 minutes. Flip and cook an additional 3–4 minutes, until salmon is opaque and flakes easily.
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Step 5: Serve : Transfer salmon to plates. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and additional chopped herbs if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
