Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon – Easy 15-Minute Recipe

Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon

This baked lemon garlic salmon is a restaurant-quality dish that comes together in just 15 minutes. The combination of buttery garlic and fresh lemon creates a bright, flavorful sauce that keeps the salmon incredibly moist and tender. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this recipe delivers impressive results with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets, about 6 ounces each
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 lemons
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly brush with olive oil.
3. Place salmon fillets skin side down on the prepared sheet and season with salt and pepper.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter and minced garlic until well combined.
5. Spread the garlic butter evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Slice one lemon into thin rounds and place on top of each fillet. Squeeze the juice from the second lemon over everything.
7. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
8. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Practical Tips

Avoid overcooking: Do not overcook the salmon or it will become dry. Start checking at the 12 minute mark to ensure it stays moist and tender. The salmon will continue cooking slightly after removal from the oven.

Prepare ahead: Mix the garlic butter in advance and refrigerate it. You can assemble the entire dish up to 2 hours before baking, then simply pop it in the oven when ready to cook.

Fresh garlic matters: Freshly minced garlic provides much better flavor than pre-minced varieties. Mince it just before cooking to maximize the aromatic qualities.

How to Store

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a 300-degree oven for about 5 minutes to avoid drying it out further. The salmon can also be enjoyed cold the next day as part of a salad or grain bowl.

Common Questions

Can I use frozen salmon? Yes, but thaw it completely in the refrigerator before baking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better browning and texture.

What side dishes pair well with this salmon? Serve alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli, steamed rice, or a fresh green salad. The lemon and garlic flavors complement most vegetables and grains beautifully.

Can I substitute the butter? You can use ghee or a dairy-free butter alternative if preferred. However, regular butter provides the best flavor and helps create the rich sauce that makes this dish special.