Description
This Best Easy Healthy Baked Salmon recipe is a flavorful and nutritious option perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. Featuring tender, flaky salmon fillets baked with a zesty lemon, garlic, and herb marinade, this dish is simple to prepare and packed with vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s both wholesome and delicious, making it an ideal choice for a healthy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
Seasoning & Marinade
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper (just a pinch if using finely ground black pepper)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning blend (or Herbs de Provence, or ¼ teaspoon each dried thyme, parsley, oregano, and basil)
- 1 medium lemon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) and grease a large baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Season the Salmon: Arrange the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Season generously with salt and cracked black pepper to enhance the natural flavors.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, Italian herb seasoning blend, and the juice of half a lemon. Stir well to blend all the flavors together.
- Apply Marinade and Add Lemon Slices: Spoon the marinade evenly over each salmon fillet, making sure to rub it all over the tops and sides so every part is coated without any dry spots. Thinly slice the remaining half of the lemon and place one slice on top of each fillet for a fresh citrus aroma.
- Bake the Salmon: Place the baking pan in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The salmon is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. For a slightly caramelized finish, optionally broil for the last 1-2 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish the salmon with fresh thyme or parsley if desired. Serve immediately for a warm, healthy, and flavorful meal.
Notes
- This recipe offers a perfect balance of lemon and garlic flavors that complement the natural richness of the salmon.
- Baking ensures the salmon remains moist and tender without added fats from frying.
- You can substitute the Italian herb seasoning with Herbs de Provence or an equal mix of dried thyme, parsley, oregano, and basil for a personalized herbal touch.
- Broiling at the end adds a nice crisp to the top without overcooking the fish.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (6 ounces)
- Calories: 306 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 366 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 94 mg
