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Perfect Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill

perfect baked salmon with lemon and dill - featured image

A simple and flavorful baked salmon recipe featuring fresh lemon and dill, delivering moist, flaky fish perfect for quick weeknight meals or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skin-on salmon fillets (about 6 ounces/170 grams each)
  • 1 large lemon, thinly sliced plus zest from half the lemon
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (or substitute with tarragon or parsley)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
  • Optional: drizzle of honey

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, lightly score the skin in two or three places.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Add honey if desired.
  4. Place the fillets skin-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the marinade evenly over each fillet. Lay 2-3 lemon slices on top of each fillet.
  5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on fillet thickness, until salmon flakes easily with a fork but is still slightly translucent in the center.
  6. Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  7. Serve garnished with extra fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Notes

For crispier skin, broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes but watch closely to avoid burning. If lemon slices brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil. Marinate salmon up to 30 minutes before baking but not longer to prevent fish breakdown. Use fresh lemon and dill for best flavor. Rest salmon after baking to keep it moist.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked salmon, lemon and dill salmon, easy salmon recipe, healthy salmon, quick dinner, gluten-free salmon, dairy-free salmon