Description
This Best Easy Healthy Baked Salmon recipe features tender, flaky salmon fillets infused with fresh lemon, garlic, and fragrant Italian herbs. Perfectly baked to retain moisture and flavor, it’s a quick and nutritious meal ready in just 30 minutes, ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper (or a pinch if finely ground)
- Thin slices from half a medium lemon (for topping)
Seasoning and Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning blend (or herbs de Provence, or ¼ teaspoon each dried thyme, parsley, oregano, and basil)
- Juice of ½ medium lemon
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a large baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Season Salmon: Arrange the salmon fillets on the baking sheet. Generously season the tops and sides of the fillets with salt and pepper for balanced flavor.
- Make Herb and Lemon Mixture: In a small bowl, stir together olive oil, minced garlic, Italian herbs, and the juice of half a lemon until well combined. This mixture will add vibrant flavor to the salmon.
- Coat the Salmon: Spoon the herb and lemon mixture evenly over each salmon fillet, rubbing it all over the tops and sides to ensure no dry spots remain. Then, place thin lemon slices on top of each fillet for zesty aroma and garnish.
- Bake the Salmon: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily when tested with a fork. Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for a lightly browned finish.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- This recipe is quick and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, ready in about 30 minutes from prep to plate.
- The lemon and garlic flavors beautifully complement the salmon, making it a flavorful yet light dish.
- Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor but dried herbs blend also works well.
- Broiling at the end is optional but adds a lovely slightly crispy texture on top.
- Adjust salt and pepper to your taste preferences, especially if using salted butter or additional seasoning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (about 6 ounces)
- Calories: 306 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 366 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 94 mg
