Salmon

Baked Salmon With Lemon

Name: Baked Salmon With Lemon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets, 6 ounces each; 2 lemons, juiced; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup white wine, optional; 2 tablespoons olive oil

By Nathaniel Greenwood · June 19, 2026 · Salmon

Prep15 min

Cook12 min

Total27 min

Serves4

I still remember the first time I made baked salmon with lemon for my family. It was a weeknight dinner, and I was looking for something quick, easy, and delicious. I had all the ingredients on hand, and the recipe was so simple that I couldn't believe I had never made it before. The combination of the flavorful salmon, the brightness of the lemon, and the richness of the butter was a revelation.

As a home cook, I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are both easy to make and impressive to serve. Baked salmon with lemon fits the bill perfectly. It's a dish that's perfect for a special occasion, but it's also easy enough to make on a weeknight. And the best part is that it's incredibly versatile - you can serve it with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to quinoa or rice.

One of the things I love about this recipe is that it's a great way to get more fish into your diet. Salmon is an excellent source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and various vitamins and minerals. And by baking it with lemon, you're adding a burst of citrus flavor that complements the fish perfectly.

In this recipe, I'll walk you through the steps to make a delicious baked salmon with lemon. From preparing the salmon to serving it with your favorite sides, I'll share all my tips and tricks to ensure that your dish turns out perfectly. So let's get started!

Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It's easy to make, delicious to eat, and perfect for any occasion. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the flavors of baked salmon with lemon!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
The combination of salmon, lemon, and butter is a classic and delicious flavor combination.
Baked salmon with lemon is a healthy and nutritious meal option.
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
You can serve it with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to quinoa or rice.
The recipe is versatile and can be customized to your tastes.
It's a great way to get more fish into your diet.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making a great baked salmon with lemon is to cook the salmon to the right temperature. You want to aim for an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C), which will ensure that the fish is cooked through and flaky. To check the temperature, use an instant-read thermometer to test the thickest part of the salmon.

Another important factor is the balance of flavors. The lemon adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the richness of the salmon perfectly. And by using a combination of butter and lemon juice, you create a sauce that's both creamy and tangy.

Finally, the texture of the salmon is important. You want it to be flaky and tender, with a nice crust on the outside. To achieve this, make sure to pat the salmon dry before baking, and don't overcook it. A little bit of pink in the center is okay - it will continue to cook as it rests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this recipe, you'll need a few simple ingredients. The most important ingredient is the salmon - look for fresh, wild-caught salmon with a nice fat content. You'll also need some lemons, butter, garlic, and herbs like thyme and parsley. Make sure to choose fresh, high-quality ingredients to get the best flavor out of your dish.

When shopping for salmon, look for fillets that are about 6 ounces each. You can also use smaller or larger fillets, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. For the lemons, choose ones that are firm and heavy for their size - these will have the most juice and flavor.

4 salmon fillets, 6 ounces eachLook for fresh, wild-caught salmon with a nice fat content. You can also use smaller or larger fillets, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2 lemons, juicedChoose lemons that are firm and heavy for their size - these will have the most juice and flavor.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softenedUse high-quality butter for the best flavor. You can also use salted butter, but omit any additional salt in the recipe.
4 cloves garlic, mincedUse fresh garlic for the best flavor. You can also use jarred garlic, but it won't have the same depth of flavor.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh thymeChoose fresh thyme for the best flavor. You can also use dried thyme, but use about half the amount called for in the recipe.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsleyUse fresh parsley for the best flavor. You can also use dried parsley, but it won't have the same brightness.
1 teaspoon saltUse kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor. You can also use table salt, but it won't have the same texture.
1/2 teaspoon black pepperUse freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor. You can also use pre-ground pepper, but it won't have the same depth of flavor.
1/4 cup white wine, optionalUse a dry white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, for the best flavor. You can also omit the wine and use more lemon juice instead.
2 tablespoons olive oilUse a high-quality olive oil for the best flavor. You can also use other oils, like avocado oil or grapeseed oil, but they won't have the same richness.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or oven-safe skilletInstant-read thermometerSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWhiskSpatula

How to Make Baked Salmon With Lemon

1
Preheat your oven to 400 F (200 C).
2
Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water, pat them dry with paper towels, and season with salt and pepper.
3
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, and parsley.
4
Place the salmon fillets in a large heavy skillet or oven-safe skillet, skin side down if they have skin.
5
Brush the tops of the salmon fillets with the butter and lemon mixture, making sure they're evenly coated.
6
If using white wine, pour it into the skillet around the salmon fillets.
7
Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C).
8
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature, inserting it into the thickest part of the salmon.
9
Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
10
Serve the salmon hot, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
11
Drizzle the pan sauce over the top of the salmon, spooning some of the juices over each fillet.
12
Serve with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or rice.

Expert Tips

Make sure to pat the salmon dry before baking to get a nice crust on the outside.
Don't overcook the salmon - it should be cooked through but still moist and flaky.
Use a thermometer to ensure the salmon is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Serve the salmon with a variety of sides to round out the meal.
Consider using different herbs or spices to change up the flavor of the dish.
You can also make this recipe with other types of fish, such as cod or tilapia.
To make the dish more substantial, serve with a side of roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the salmon, which can make it dry and tough.
Not patting the salmon dry before baking, which can prevent a nice crust from forming.
Not using a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the salmon.
Not letting the salmon rest before serving, which can cause the juices to run out.
Using low-quality ingredients, such as old or frozen salmon, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
Not seasoning the salmon properly, which can make it taste bland.

Variations and Substitutions

Try using different types of fish, such as cod or tilapia, for a different flavor and texture.
Add some diced onions or bell peppers to the skillet with the salmon for added flavor.
Use different herbs or spices, such as dill or paprika, to change up the flavor of the dish.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top of the salmon before serving.
Serve the salmon with a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
Try making the dish with salmon steaks instead of fillets for a more impressive presentation.
Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to the butter and lemon mixture for extra flavor.

What to Serve With Baked Salmon With Lemon

Baked salmon with lemon is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Some ideas include roasted vegetables, quinoa or rice, and a simple green salad. You can also serve it with a side of roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes for a more substantial meal.

Consider serving the salmon with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy and well-rounded meal. You can also serve it with a side of roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a delicious and flavorful side dish.

Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sproutsQuinoa or riceA simple green saladRoasted potatoes or sweet potatoesSteamed broccoli or green beansGrilled or sautéed spinach

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

If you want to make the dish ahead of time, you can prepare the salmon and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Simply season the salmon with salt and pepper, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

To freeze the dish, prepare the salmon and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag or container with the date and contents, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To reheat the dish, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake it in the oven at 400 F (200 C) for 10-12 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C).

Alternatively, you can reheat the dish in the microwave. Simply place the salmon in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a paper towel, and heat it on high for 30-45 seconds, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C). Be careful when reheating the dish, as it can quickly become overcooked.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of salmon should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of salmon for this recipe, but wild-caught salmon is recommended for the best flavor and texture. Look for salmon that is fresh and has a nice fat content.

How do I know if the salmon is cooked through?

You can check the internal temperature of the salmon by inserting an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the fillet. The internal temperature should be at least 145 F (63 C).

Can I make this recipe with other types of fish?

Yes, you can make this recipe with other types of fish, such as cod or tilapia. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.

How do I store leftover salmon?

You can store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply prepare the salmon and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Then, bake it in the oven when you're ready to serve it.

What are some good sides to serve with baked salmon?

Some good sides to serve with baked salmon include roasted vegetables, quinoa or rice, and a simple green salad. You can also serve it with a side of roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes for a more substantial meal.

How do I prevent the salmon from drying out?

To prevent the salmon from drying out, make sure to not overcook it. You can also brush it with a little bit of oil or butter before baking to keep it moist.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon for this recipe. Just be sure to thaw it first and pat it dry with paper towels before baking.

The Full Recipe

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