Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is a dish that dances on your palate, bursting with zest and delight. Picture tender salmon fillets soaking in a symphony of lemony brightness and aromatic garlic, creating a culinary experience that makes your taste buds sing. The moment you pull it from the oven, the tantalizing aroma fills the air, making even your neighbor’s cat come knocking for a taste.
This dish isn’t just about flavor; it’s steeped in memories of cozy family dinners and sun-soaked summer barbecues. I remember my grandma serving this at our annual family reunion, where laughter echoed and stories flowed like the wine. Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or enjoying a quiet weeknight meal. Get ready to indulge in flavors that will leave you craving more!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The bright flavors create an unforgettable taste experience that pairs beautifully with various sides
- Its stunning presentation will impress your guests while keeping cleanup minimal
- Enjoy this versatile dish baked or grilled, making it perfect for any cooking style!
Ingredients for Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Salmon Fillets: Choose fresh or thawed fillets for the best flavor; wild-caught salmon adds an extra layer of richness.
Fresh Garlic: Use minced garlic cloves for a robust flavor; avoid pre-minced options as they lack freshness.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides tanginess; bottled juice just doesn’t cut it.
Zest of Lemon: Grate the outer layer of the lemon peel to add vibrant citrus notes to your dish.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor while keeping the salmon moist during baking.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate the dish—use sea salt and freshly cracked pepper for added depth.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your salmon cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or olive oil. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier because nobody wants a messy kitchen after all this deliciousness.
Step 3: Season the Salmon
Pat dry your salmon fillets with paper towels. In a bowl, mix together minced garlic, lemon juice, zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour this heavenly mixture over the salmon so every bite is infused with flavor.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the seasoned salmon in the prepared baking dish and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork—a sure sign it’s ready to devour.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Transfer to plates and drizzle any remaining sauce over each fillet for that perfect finishing touch!
Now you have a vibrant plate filled with Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon that looks as good as it tastes! Pair it with some roasted veggies or a light salad for a complete meal—and don’t forget to invite me over next time!
You Must Know
- This delectable Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon recipe is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s also a breeze to prepare
- With its vibrant flavors and lovely aroma, it transforms any dinner table into a culinary masterpiece
- Perfect for weeknight dinners yet fancy enough for special occasions!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, prepare your salmon fillets by patting them dry and seasoning them generously with salt, pepper, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Place the seasoned salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 12-15 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the lemon for lime for a zesty twist. Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an aromatic kick, or toss in some cherry tomatoes and asparagus on the baking sheet for a complete meal. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through without drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked salmon, use fillets of even thickness
- Avoid overcooking by checking doneness a few minutes early
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving enhances the flavor beautifully
It was last summer when I made this Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon for my family reunion. Watching everyone devour it while I basked in their compliments made me realize how simple ingredients can create unforgettable memories!
FAQs :
What are the key ingredients for Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon?
To prepare Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon, you will need fresh salmon fillets, garlic, lemons, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Optional ingredients include herbs like parsley or dill for added flavor. The combination of lemon and garlic enhances the natural taste of the salmon while keeping it moist during baking. When choosing salmon, opt for wild-caught if possible, as it often has a richer flavor. Fresh ingredients will elevate your dish and contribute to a healthier meal.
How long does it take to bake Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon?
Baking Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes at a temperature of 400°F (200°C). The exact time may vary depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets. A general rule is to cook salmon for about 4 to 6 minutes per half-inch of thickness. To ensure it’s perfectly cooked, check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) using a meat thermometer. Proper cooking keeps the fish tender and flaky without drying it out.
Can I use frozen salmon for Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon for Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon; however, it’s best to thaw it first. Thawing allows for even cooking and better flavor absorption from the marinade. You can thaw salmon in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed bag under cold water for about an hour. Once thawed, pat the fish dry and proceed with your recipe as usual. This method will ensure that your baked salmon remains moist and delicious.
What sides pair well with Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon?
Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving it with steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for a healthy option. A light salad dressed with vinaigrette complements the flavors nicely as well. For a heartier side, try roasted potatoes or quinoa seasoned with herbs. These options create a balanced meal while allowing the bright flavors of the salmon to shine through.
Conclusion for Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon :
In summary, Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is a quick and healthy dish that brings together simple ingredients like garlic and lemon to enhance the taste of fresh salmon. With minimal preparation time and easy cooking methods, this recipe makes weeknight dinners enjoyable and nutritious. Don’t forget to pair your dish with complementary sides like steamed vegetables or salads for a complete meal. Try this recipe today and savor every bite of this flavorful seafood delight!
Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon is a vibrant seafood dish that bursts with zesty flavors and aromatic garlic. Tender salmon fillets are marinated in a delightful mix of fresh lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil before being baked to perfection. This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also makes for an impressive centerpiece at any dinner table. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy weeknight meal or entertaining guests, this flavorful salmon recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients
- 4 (6 oz) salmon fillets
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly cracked pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray or olive oil.
- Pat salmon fillets dry; season with salt and pepper. In a bowl, mix garlic, lemon juice, zest, and olive oil, then pour over the salmon.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Let rest for a couple of minutes before serving; drizzle any remaining sauce over each fillet.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g)
- Calories: 367
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 622mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
