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Best Easy Healthy Baked Salmon Recipe

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4.2 from 5 reviews

This Best Easy Healthy Baked Salmon recipe is a quick, flavorful, and nutritious way to enjoy salmon fillets. Seasoned with garlic, Italian herbs, lemon, and olive oil, the salmon is baked to perfection, resulting in tender, flaky fish packed with vibrant flavors. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, this dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and is ready in just 25 minutes.

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: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a large baking pan to prevent sticking. Arrange the salmon fillets on the baking sheet and season them generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
  2. Make the Marinade and Coat: In a small bowl, stir together the olive oil, minced garlic, Italian herb seasoning, and the juice of half the lemon. Spoon this mixture evenly over the salmon fillets, rubbing it all over the tops and sides to ensure every part is well coated with no dry spots. Then thinly slice the remaining half of the lemon and place one lemon slice on top of each piece of salmon.
  3. Bake the Salmon: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake the salmon for 12 to 15 minutes. The salmon is done when it appears opaque and flakes easily when tested with a fork. For an extra touch, broil the salmon for 1 to 2 minutes at the end for a slightly caramelized top if desired.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish the salmon with fresh thyme or parsley if you like for added color and aroma. Serve immediately for a healthy, satisfying meal.

Notes

  • Adjust salt according to your dietary preferences or salt sensitivity.
  • Using cracked black pepper adds texture and a fresh bite; finely ground black pepper can also be used but in smaller quantity.
  • If you don’t have Italian herb seasoning blend, a mix of dried thyme, parsley, oregano, and basil works well.
  • Broiling at the end is optional but enhances the flavor and texture of the topping.
  • Serve with vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.