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Featured image of delicious Garlic Lemon Salmon cooked to perfection.

Garlic Lemon Salmon

Avatar photoAmelia Chen-Morrison
This Garlic Lemon Salmon recipe delivers flaky, tender salmon infused with bright lemon and savory garlic flavors. It's a restaurant-quality meal that's quick and easy to prepare at home, perfect for a healthy and delicious weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment paper or aluminum foil
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Fork
  • Paper towels

Ingredients
  

  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, melted butter, lemon zest, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper.
  • Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
  • Pour the garlic lemon sauce evenly over the salmon fillets.
  • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  • Broil for the last 1-2 minutes for extra color (optional).
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use fresh salmon and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Don't overcook the salmon; it should be opaque and flake easily. To store leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven, microwave, or skillet. For a sweeter flavor, add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the sauce. Marinating the salmon in the sauce for 30 minutes before baking can enhance the flavor.