LEMON HERB BAKED SALMON

LEMON HERB BAKED SALMON

Lemon Herb Baked Salmon is a light and flavourful dish that highlights the natural richness of salmon with a bright, zesty touch infused with garlic, oregano, salt, pepper and lemon juice. This recipe enhances the fish’s natural flavours while keeping it moist and flaky. Baking is a foolproof method to achieve a perfectly tender texture, ensuring that the salmon remains juicy and delicious. A drizzle of olive oil helps to lock in moisture, while the dried oregano adds a Mediterranean touch. This dish is high in protein, healthy fats and essential omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious option for lunch or dinner. Quick to prepare and easy to clean up. It is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep or even an elegant dinner. Serve it with roasted vegetables, quinoa or a fresh salad for a well-balanced and satisfying meal.

RECIPE CATEGORY

Entrée, Lunch, Dinner

SERVING SIZE

1

CUISINE

Mediterranean, European, Greek

PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES

Bake, 5 Ingredients or Less, Quick & Easy, Prepared in Advance

OCCASION/HOLIDAY

Christmas, New Year’s Eve, Thanksgiving, Easter, Family Gathering, Dinner Party, Valentine’s Day, Summer, Spring

SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS

Healthy, High Protein, Low Carb, Low Cholesterol, Low Sodium, Quick & Easy, Kid Friendly, Wheat/Gluten-Free

DISH TYPE

Entrée, Main Course, Seafood

INGREDIENTS

• 100g salmon fillet

• 1 tsp olive oil

• ½ tsp lemon juice

• ½ garlic clove, minced

• ¼ tsp dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

• Calories: 180 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 1g

• Protein: 22g

• Fat: 9g

• Fibre: 0g

• Sugar: 0g

• Sodium: 50mg

PREPARATION

• Preheat The Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

• Prepare The Salmon: Pat the salmon fillet dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, ensuring even cooking.

• Season The Fish: Place the salmon in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then sprinkle minced garlic, oregano, salt and pepper over the top.

• Bake Until Tender: Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking to retain moisture.

• Rest And Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with extra lemon zest or fresh herbs if desired.

PREP TIME

5 minutes

COOKING TIME

12–15 minutes

TIPS

• Choose Fresh Salmon: Look for a bright, firm fillet with a mild ocean smell for the best quality.

• Marinate For Extra Flavour: Let the salmon sit with the seasoning for 10–15 minutes before baking to enhance the taste.

• Use A Meat Thermometer: For perfect doneness, aim for an internal temperature of 52–57°C (125–135°F).

• Don’t Overcook: Salmon continues to cook after being removed from the oven, so take it out slightly before it is fully done.

• Enhance The Citrus Flavour: Add lemon zest before baking for a more intense lemony aroma.

• Pair With A Side Dish: Serve with roasted asparagus, quinoa or garlic mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

• Use Foil For Moisture: Baking in a foil packet seals in steam, making the salmon extra juicy.

• Broil For A Crispy Finish: If you prefer a slight char, broil for the last 1–2 minutes of baking.

VARIATIONS

• Garlic Butter Version: Replace olive oil with melted garlic butter for a richer taste.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for a hint of heat.

• Herb Blend: Use fresh dill, thyme or parsley instead of oregano for a different flavour profile.

• Soy-Ginger Twist: Swap lemon juice for soy sauce and add grated ginger for an Asian-inspired version.

• Honey Glaze: Drizzle a teaspoon of honey over the salmon before baking for a subtle sweetness.

• Mustard Crust: Brush with Dijon mustard before adding seasonings for a tangy, bold flavour.

• Parmesan Topping: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for a slightly crispy, cheesy layer.

• Citrus Medley: Use a mix of orange and lemon juice for a bright, refreshing taste.

PREPPING AND STORAGE

• Refrigeration: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 160°C (325°F) for best results.

• Freezing: Wrap raw or cooked salmon in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

• Make-Ahead: Season the salmon in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking for an easy meal prep option.