Easy Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs – A Quick and Healthy Dinner Ready in 25 Minutes

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

A Simple, Healthy Dinner You’ll Love

There’s something magical about the smell of salmon baking with lemon and herbs. It’s one of those quick dinners that feels special yet requires almost no effort. This Easy Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs brings together fresh, Mediterranean-inspired flavors in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners.

Salmon is not only delicious but also packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, lean protein, and essential nutrients. Combined with the freshness of lemon and the aromatic power of herbs, this dish is a celebration of simple, wholesome cooking, the very heart of The Grandma’s Table philosophy.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs Recipe

• Quick and easy: Only 25 minutes from start to finish.
• Fresh and bright: Lemon adds natural acidity that balances the richness of salmon.
• Full of flavor: Dried herbs like oregano and thyme create that cozy Mediterranean aroma.
• Versatile: Pairs well with rice, roasted potatoes, or a crisp salad.
• Healthy and family-friendly: Packed with protein and good fats.

This is one of those meals that looks elegant enough for company but is effortless enough for a weeknight.

Ingredient Spotlight

Salmon:
Choose wild-caught salmon if possible, such as sockeye or coho. They tend to have a firmer texture and richer flavor. Farm-raised works too, just look for sustainably sourced options.

Lemon:
The acidity cuts through the natural oils of the salmon, bringing freshness and brightness. For an extra boost, use both juice and zest.

Olive Oil:
It adds depth and helps the salmon stay moist while baking. Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for best results.

Herbs:
Oregano and thyme are classic Mediterranean choices, but rosemary or dill also work beautifully.

Garlic:
It gives the dish a savory, comforting flavor that ties everything together.

Paprika:
Adds subtle warmth and a hint of color.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat and prep
   Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper — this helps the salmon cook evenly and makes cleanup effortless.
2. Make the marinade
   Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
3. Season the salmon
   Pat the fillets dry with a paper towel. Brush the marinade evenly over each piece, ensuring every surface is coated.
4. Top with lemon slices
   Arrange thin lemon rounds over the top. They’ll infuse the salmon with extra flavor as it bakes.
5. Bake to perfection
   Bake for 12–15 minutes. The exact time depends on the thickness of your fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Serve and enjoy
   Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Pro Tip:
For a slightly crispy top, switch to the broil setting for the last minute of baking.

Serving Ideas

This Easy Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs is incredibly flexible. Try pairing it with:

• Garlic butter rice or lemon couscous
• Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus
• Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumber, and feta
• Fresh fruit smoothie from my Fresh Drinks section for a balanced meal

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• To make ahead: Prepare the marinade in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days.
• To store leftovers: Keep baked salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• To reheat: Warm gently in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes, or in the microwave at low power to avoid drying it out.
• To freeze: Place cooled fillets in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Benefits

This Easy Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs recipe is not just quick, it’s a nutritional powerhouse.

• High in protein for muscle recovery.
• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids that support heart and brain health.
• Low in carbs and sugar-free.
• Naturally gluten-free and suitable for Mediterranean and low-carb diets.

It’s a perfect weeknight dinner for families who want to eat better without spending hours in the kitchen.

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be considered an estimate. For the most accurate results, please use your preferred nutrition calculator based on actual ingredients used.
For more information on daily values, visit the FDA website.

Tips from Grandma’s Kitchen

At The Grandma’s Table, simple meals carry love and wisdom from generations past. My Italian grandmother used to say, “If your kitchen smells like lemon and herbs, dinner will be perfect.”
So trust your senses, the aroma of lemon and garlic will tell you when your salmon is just right.

You can also customize this Easy Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs recipe by adding a light drizzle of honey, a sprinkle of chili flakes, or a layer of thin zucchini slices for a one-pan complete meal.