Ah, One-Pan Baked Lemon Herb Salmon – where simplicity meets sophistication! This recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it perfectly captures that delightful balance of bright flavors and healthy ingredients, all while being an absolute breeze to whip up. I remember the first time I made it for a dinner party; the aroma filled my kitchen, enticing my guests long before they even crossed the threshold. It was so simple, yet everyone thought I had slaved away in the kitchen for hours!
What I love most about this dish is that it’s light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor! Plus, cooking everything on one pan means less cleanup, which is always a win in my book. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or an elegant weekend dinner, this salmon recipe has got your back!
What’s in One-Pan Baked Lemon Herb Salmon?
Salmon Fillets: The star of the show! Wild-caught salmon is my go-to due to its rich flavor and omega-3 fatty acids. If you can’t find wild-caught, farmed salmon works perfectly too.
Fresh Lemons: We’ll use both zest and juice in this recipe to pack in that zesty goodness. Fresh lemons make all the difference, trust me!
Garlic: Oh, garlic! How I adore you! Fresh garlic cloves add a lovely depth of flavor and aroma to the dish.
Fresh Herbs (like parsley and dill): Fresh herbs brighten up the dish and complement the salmon perfectly. I’m partial to parsley and dill, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand!
Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil ties everything together and helps with that delightful golden crust.
Seasoning (Salt and Pepper): Always essentials in my kitchen. A sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances the natural flavors of each ingredient.
Is One-Pan Baked Lemon Herb Salmon Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is not only delicious, but it’s full of nutritional benefits. The main component, salmon, is famous for its high omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your heart and brain health. It’s a fantastic source of protein, too!
The addition of lemon not only gives it that bright, tangy flavor but also provides a boost of vitamin C. Fresh garlic is known for its potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and heart health support. And let’s not forget about the herbs; they’re low in calories but high in flavor, plus they offer their own set of antioxidants and health perks.
Just be cautious with the amount of salt you use if you’re watching your sodium intake. Otherwise, this dish is a wholesome way to enjoy a satisfying meal without the guilt!
Ingredients List
– 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
– 2 medium lemons (zest and juice)
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Serves 4*
How to Make One-Pan Baked Lemon Herb Salmon?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin side down.
4. In a small bowl, mix the zest of the lemons, minced garlic, olive oil, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
5. Spread the mixture evenly over each salmon fillet. Don’t be shy; really get that flavor in there!
6. Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the fillets for an extra zing. You can slice the other lemon and place the slices around the salmon for extra flavor.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
8. Remove from the oven, and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This will enhance its juiciness!
Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Meal!
Serve your One-Pan Baked Lemon Herb Salmon with a side of roasted asparagus or a simple salad to keep things light and refreshing. You could also pair it with quinoa or brown rice if you’re in the mood for something a bit more filling. Drizzle a little extra lemon juice over your sides to keep that bright flavor going!
Feel free to switch things up by adding seasonal veggies to roast alongside the salmon. Zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes work beautifully!
There you have it! I can’t wait for you to try this delicious One-Pan Baked Lemon Herb Salmon. It’s truly a crowd-pleaser and a dish you’ll want to add to your regular rotation. Once you do, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Happy cooking!