When it comes to quick, nourishing weeknight dinners, oven-baked salmon is a total hero. It’s tender, juicy, and packed with flavor—all without a mess on the stovetop. Plus, it bakes in under 20 minutes and pairs beautifully with just about any veggie or grain.
This recipe is so easy even beginner cooks will feel confident making it. And it’s perfect for families: you can season it simply for the kids or jazz it up with a glaze or herbs for grown-ups. It’s fresh, flaky, and oh-so satisfying.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon (zested and sliced)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 teaspoon dried dill or Italian seasoning
- Fresh herbs for garnish: parsley, dill, or chives
Pro Tips for Perfect Salmon
- Room Temp Salmon – Let your salmon sit out for 15 minutes before baking for even cooking.
- Use parchment paper – Makes cleanup a breeze and prevents sticking.
- Don’t overbake! – Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is just opaque in the center.
- Customize the flavor – Kids love a simple butter-lemon version, while adults might enjoy a honey-garlic or Dijon glaze.
- Broil for a minute or two at the end if you want a crispier top.
Tools You’ll Need
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or foil
- Small bowl for mixing seasoning
- Basting brush or spoon
- Oven
- Zester or microplane (optional)
Substitutions & Variations
- No lemon? Use lime or a splash of vinegar.
- Make it spicy with a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
- Add a glaze: Mix 2 tbsp honey + 1 tbsp soy sauce + 1 tsp mustard for a sweet-savory twist.
- Herb butter finish: Melted butter + chopped herbs spooned over hot salmon = amazing.
Make Ahead Tips
- Mix the seasoning and prep the lemon slices ahead of time.
- Marinate the salmon (with lemon, garlic, and olive oil) in the fridge for up to 30 minutes before baking.
How to Make Oven-Baked Salmon
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Season the Salmon
Place salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Brush or spoon the mixture evenly over each fillet.
3. Add Lemon Slices & Bake
Top each fillet with a lemon slice. Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness, until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
4. Garnish & Serve
Remove from oven and let rest for 2 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs if using and serve with your favorite sides!
Leftovers & Storage
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Gently warm in the oven at 300°F or in the microwave (covered) for 30–60 seconds.
- Leftover ideas: Use cold salmon on salads, in wraps, or flaked into pasta.
Let’s Dish It Out
Oven-baked salmon is the kind of low-effort, high-reward meal that will make you feel like a kitchen pro—even on a Tuesday night! It’s light, nutritious, and endlessly customizable for even the pickiest eaters.
If you give this recipe a try, drop a comment and let me know—did your kids gobble it up? Did you add a glaze? I’d love to hear your delicious twists! 
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