Description
Experience the perfect balance of zesty lemon and aromatic herbs with this Oven-Baked Lemon Herb Salmon. This easy-to-make recipe uses a flavorful herb glaze and gentle baking, culminating in a caramelized, moist salmon fillet that’s perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon
- 1 pound Salmon fillet (fresh wild-caught or farmed Atlantic salmon recommended)
- to taste Kosher salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1 large Lemon (use the freshest lemons)
Herb Glaze
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter (or substitute with olive oil for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons Honey (can be swapped with maple syrup)
- 2 cloves Garlic (chopped finely)
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano (or use fresh herbs)
- 1 teaspoon Fresh thyme (other herb substitutions can be used)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Roasted lemon slices (from the baking step)
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and to help retain moisture.
- Arrange Lemon Slices: Layer thinly sliced lemons evenly on the prepared parchment paper. This will infuse the salmon with fresh citrus flavor as it cooks.
- Season the Salmon: Sprinkle kosher salt and black pepper over your salmon fillet. Place the salmon skin-side down atop the lemon slices on the baking sheet.
- Prepare the Herb Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together melted unsalted butter, honey, finely chopped garlic, dried oregano, and fresh thyme to create a fragrant and flavorful glaze.
- Coat the Salmon: Pour the herb glaze generously over the salmon, ensuring it is well coated to infuse flavor and keep the salmon moist.
- Create a Packet: Fold the parchment and foil around the salmon gently to form a loose packet. This will allow the salmon to steam slightly and remain tender during baking.
- Bake the Salmon: Place the salmon packet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. Check for doneness by ensuring the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Broil for Caramelization: Carefully uncover the packet and switch your oven to broil. Broil the salmon for 4-6 minutes until the top caramelizes lightly, developing a beautiful golden color and enhanced flavor.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and the roasted lemon slices from the baking sheet.
Notes
- You may substitute olive oil for the butter for a lighter, dairy-free option.
- Maple syrup can be used instead of honey for a different sweet note.
- Monitor the broiling step closely to prevent burning since broil temperatures are high.
- Fresh herbs can be substituted or added based on availability, such as rosemary or dill, for varied flavor.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your salmon fillet.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
