Name: Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 pounds salmon fillet; Kosher salt, to taste; 1 large lemon; Chopped parsley, for garnish; 2 large lemons; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 5 garlic cloves, chopped; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon sweet paprika; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 4 reviews

If you love seafood that feels fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, you’re going to absolutely adore this Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon Recipe. This dish is a celebration of simple yet dynamic ingredients that come together to create a perfectly flaky and juicy salmon that’s infused with the brightness of lemon and the punch of garlic. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve guests, making it a total winner in my recipe book. Trust me, once you try this Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon Recipe, it might just become your go-to salmon dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a raw salmon fillet with a bright orange color and visible white lines of fat, placed on a sheet of shiny silver foil on a white marbled surface. To the right of the salmon, there are three whole yellow lemons with a smooth texture, a glass bottle of yellow olive oil, and four cloves of garlic with white papery skin. Surrounding them are small bowls holding white salt, black pepper, red paprika, and green dried herbs. A bunch of fresh green parsley is partially visible on the far right side. The overall scene is bright and fresh, with the ingredients neatly arranged for preparation. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting your ingredients right is half the fun with this recipe. Each component plays a vital role—from the zesty lemon and aromatic garlic to the earthy oregano and sweet paprika, they combine to create a sauce that’s as colorful as it is flavorful. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

2 pounds salmon fillet: Opt for fresh or high-quality salmon to ensure tender, juicy results.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning to enhance the natural flavors of the salmon.
1 large lemon: Used for fresh zest, bright juice, and garnish that adds a fresh punch.
Chopped parsley, for garnish: Adds color and a mild, herbaceous finish.
2 large lemons: The star ingredient for the tangy lemon-garlic sauce.
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps meld all flavors perfectly.
5 garlic cloves, chopped: Brings a deep and aromatic zing to the sauce.
2 teaspoons dried oregano: Offers a Mediterranean touch with earthy, herbal notes.
1 teaspoon sweet paprika: Provides a beautiful red hue and mild smoky flavor.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Finishes with a gentle heat that balances the citrus.

How to Make Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Foil

Preheat your oven to 375°F and position your racks—one in the center and one about 6 inches from the broiler. Line a sheet pan with a large piece of foil, brushed lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. This step sets the stage for perfectly steamed and juicy salmon.

Step 2: Mix the Lemon-Garlic Sauce

Zest one lemon into a bowl, then add the juice of both lemons. Whisk in the olive oil, chopped garlic, dried oregano, sweet paprika, and black pepper. This vibrant sauce will bathe the salmon in bright flavors while it bakes, making every bite a delight.

Step 3: Season and Arrange the Salmon

Pat your salmon dry to help the seasoning stick. Sprinkle kosher salt evenly over both sides, then place the fillet skin-side down on the oiled foil. Pour the lemon-garlic sauce on top, spreading it evenly with a spoon or brush. Add lemon rounds on top for extra flavor and beautiful presentation.

Step 4: Wrap Up the Salmon

Fold the foil over the salmon, creating a tent to hold steam and keep the fish moist as it cooks. Seal all sides tightly to trap all the delicious juices—the steam inside will gently cook the salmon, making it tender and flaky.

Step 5: Bake Until Almost Done

Slide the foil-wrapped salmon into the hot oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the salmon is nearly cooked through at its thickest spot. This slow baking ensures the fish stays juicy and tender without drying out.

Step 6: Broil for the Perfect Finish

Carefully open the foil so the top of the salmon is exposed. Switch your broiler to high and broil the salmon for about 3 minutes until the top is lightly browned and the garlic and lemon slices have a beautiful caramelized edge. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

How to Serve Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon Recipe

A white plate with a blue floral pattern holds a cooked salmon fillet with a rich orange-brown color and a slightly crispy texture on top. The salmon is topped with a thin, bright yellow lemon slice sprinkled with small green parsley pieces. Some sauce with an oily, golden texture surrounds the fish. A silver fork with a white handle rests on the right side of the plate, holding a piece of the salmon with a soft, flaky pale pink inside. A lemon wedge is seen on the side. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the salmon just before serving. It adds a pop of green color and a mild freshness that complements the garlic and lemon flavors perfectly, making the dish even more irresistible.

Side Dishes

This salmon pairs wonderfully with a crisp, green salad to balance the richness, along with fluffy Basmati rice that soaks up the luscious lemon-garlic sauce. You could also serve roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans for a full, healthy meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the salmon directly on a large platter with whole lemon wedges for squeezing fresh juice. Layered on a bed of baby spinach or arugula, it turns into an elegant dish that’s sure to impress at your next dinner gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salmon will keep well for up to 2 days, retaining much of its moisture and flavor.

Freezing

This Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon Recipe doesn’t freeze very well due to its delicate sauce and flaky texture, so I recommend enjoying it fresh for the best taste and texture experience.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the salmon in the oven at a low temperature around 275°F, covered loosely with foil. This method helps avoid drying out the fish. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the salmon tough.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the salmon completely before cooking to ensure even baking and the best texture.

What if I don’t like paprika? Can I skip it?

You can omit the paprika, but it adds subtle sweetness and color. If you want, swap for a mild chili powder for a slight kick.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

The salmon flakes easily with a fork at its thickest part and appears opaque. It should reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safe eating.

Can I use fresh oregano instead of dried?

Yes! Use about three times the amount of fresh oregano since it’s less concentrated. Add it to the sauce right before baking for the best flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely. The salmon holds up well for next-day meals and pairs well with a variety of sides you can prepare ahead.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon Recipe enough for anyone looking to impress with a dish that’s simple to prepare yet packed with delicious Mediterranean flavors. It’s healthy, vibrant, and so easy to make that it quickly becomes a favorite. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your kitchen—I’m sure you’ll enjoy every luscious bite!