There is something incredibly satisfying about a perfectly cooked salmon dish, and this Oven Baked Salmon Recipe delivers just that with ease and elegance. It offers a beautiful balance of tender, flaky fish infused with bright lemon, fragrant garlic, and Italian herbs, all baked to juicy perfection. Whether you’re a weeknight dinner enthusiast or hosting a casual gathering, this recipe is a straightforward way to impress with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Oven Baked Salmon Recipe comes together with simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand, yet each plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor, texture, and color. From olive oil that keeps the salmon moist to fresh lemon that adds brightness, every element is essential for a mouthwatering result.
- 4 Salmon Filets (6-ounce each, skin on or off): Choose fresh, quality salmon for the best taste and texture.
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil (divided): Adds richness and helps the seasonings adhere to the fish.
- 1 Teaspoon Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the salmon.
- 1/2 Teaspoon Black Pepper: Provides subtle heat and depth without overpowering.
- 2 Garlic Cloves (minced): Infuses a savory aroma and bold flavor that complements the fish beautifully.
- 1 Teaspoon Italian Seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that adds complexity.
- 1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice: Brightens the dish with fresh acidity.
- 4 Lemon Slices: For garnish and an extra touch of citrus aroma as they bake on top.
How to Make Oven Baked Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C), which is the perfect temperature to get that tender salmon with a slightly crisp exterior. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Pat your salmon filets dry with a paper towel—that little step ensures the olive oil and seasonings stick better. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the salmon and season each piece generously with salt and pepper, creating a simple but flavorful base.
Step 3: Mix the Aromatic Olive Oil
In a small bowl, combine the remaining olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and lemon juice. Whisked together, this mixture will coat the filets with a vibrant, herbaceous flavor that truly elevates the dish.
Step 4: Arrange and Dress the Salmon
Place the filets skin-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Spoon the seasoned olive oil mixture evenly over the top of each filet, making sure every bite will be infused with those wonderful flavors.
Step 5: Add Lemon Slices
Top each filet with a thin lemon slice. As the salmon bakes, the lemon will release subtle citrusy steam, enhancing the natural richness of the fish.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the salmon into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The exact time depends on the thickness of your filets, but you’re aiming for salmon that flakes easily with a fork and has that gorgeous, juicy pink interior.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once baked, allow the salmon to rest a few minutes out of the oven. This helps lock in juices, so every bite is silky and tender. Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Oven Baked Salmon Recipe!
How to Serve Oven Baked Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
A garnish turns a meal from simple to special. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley add a pop of green and freshness, while an extra wedge of lemon on the side invites guests to brighten their bites as they wish. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving also adds texture and flavor.
Side Dishes
Oven Baked Salmon Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Think roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp mixed green salad. For something a little different, try quinoa tossed with fresh herbs or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad to complement the lemony notes of the salmon.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your salmon on a bed of sautéed spinach or wild rice for a colorful, hearty presentation. Plating the fish alongside grilled veggies and drizzling with a light herb vinaigrette adds elegance and makes the dish look restaurant-worthy, perfect for impressing family or friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After the salmon has cooled to room temperature, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, cooked salmon keeps well for up to 3 days, making it a great option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you have more leftovers than you can eat within a few days, you can freeze cooked salmon. Wrap the filets tightly with plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. For best quality, consume frozen salmon within 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat your salmon without drying it out, gently warm it in the oven at 275°F (135°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave it on a low setting, covered loosely with a microwave-safe lid, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this Oven Baked Salmon Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before seasoning and baking to ensure even cooking.
Do I need to skin the salmon before baking?
Whether the skin stays on or off is totally up to you. The skin helps keep the salmon moist while baking and can easily be removed before eating if you prefer.
How can I tell when the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an opaque pink color inside, not translucent. Cooking times vary slightly depending on thickness.
Can I substitute the Italian seasoning with other herbs?
Yes! Fresh or dried dill, thyme, or rosemary all work wonderfully if you want to switch up the flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. Oven Baked Salmon Recipe is quick, healthy, and refrigerates well, making it perfect for prepping your meals ahead of time.
Final Thoughts
This Oven Baked Salmon Recipe is one of those dishes that feels both fancy and effortlessly simple, perfect for any occasion. The combination of garlic, lemon, and herbs with tender salmon is a classic for a reason, and I encourage you to try it soon. Trust me, once you nail this recipe, it might just become a favorite staple in your home!
Print
Oven Baked Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Oven Baked Salmon recipe offers a simple, flavorful, and healthy way to prepare salmon filets. With a blend of olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, and fresh lemon juice, the salmon is tender, moist, and bursting with citrusy and herbaceous notes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious meal any day of the week.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 Salmon Filets (6-Ounce each, skin on or off)
Seasoning
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil (divided)
- 1 Teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 Teaspoon Black Pepper
- 2 Garlic Cloves (minced)
- 1 Teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice
- 4 Lemon Slices
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare Salmon: Pat dry the salmon filets thoroughly using a paper towel. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil evenly over each salmon filet, then season all sides with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Make Olive Oil Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil with the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and lemon juice. Whisk the ingredients together until well mixed to create a flavorful marinade.
- Apply Mixture: Arrange the salmon filets on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon the garlic and herb olive oil mixture evenly over each filet to coat them generously.
- Add Lemon Slices: Place one lemon slice on top of each salmon filet to infuse bright citrus flavor during baking.
- Bake Salmon: Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, depending on filet thickness, until fish flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through but still moist.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to allow juices to settle. Serve warm and enjoy a delicious, healthy meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add fresh herbs like dill or parsley before baking.
- Cooking times may vary, so check doneness by gently flaking the salmon with a fork.
- Use skin-on filets for easier handling and additional moisture.
- Serve with your favorite side dishes such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
