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Best Easy Healthy Baked Salmon Recipe

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4 from 3 reviews

This Best Easy Healthy Baked Salmon recipe delivers a simple, flavorful, and nutritious dinner that comes together in just 25 minutes. Tender salmon fillets are seasoned with garlic, Italian herbs, and fresh lemon, then baked to perfection for a flaky, juicy finish. Perfect for a healthy weeknight meal, it's low in calories and rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

Ingredients

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

  1. Preheat and Prepare Salmon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a large baking pan to prevent sticking. Arrange the salmon fillets evenly on the baking pan, then season them generously with salt and black pepper to enhance the natural flavors.
  2. Mix and Apply Marinade: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, the Italian herb seasoning, and the juice of half the lemon. Spoon this mixture over the salmon fillets, making sure to rub it all over the tops and sides of each fillet so none of the surface remains dry. Thinly slice the remaining half of the lemon and place a lemon slice on top of each salmon fillet for added brightness and visual appeal.
  3. Bake the Salmon: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake the salmon for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. If you desire a lightly crisped top, broil the salmon for the final 1 to 2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, optionally garnish the salmon with fresh thyme or parsley for extra flavor and color. Serve immediately to enjoy the salmon at its best.

Notes

  • Use fresh herbs if available for a more vibrant flavor, though dried herbs work well too.
  • Broiling at the end is optional but recommended for a slight crispiness on top.
  • For the best results, use wild-caught salmon fillets, but farmed salmon also works.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and are great for salads or sandwiches.