Name: Garlic Lemon Baked Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets; Kosher salt to taste; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons butter (melted); ½ tablespoon lemon juice; 3 garlic cloves (minced); 1 teaspoon finely chopped parsley; 1 teaspoon finely chopped dill; Lemon slices for garnish

There’s something irresistibly fresh and comforting about a good salmon dish. This Garlic Lemon Baked Salmon Recipe is one of those meals that comes together in a flash, yet feels like a special treat. The buttery lemon juice and garlicky aroma make it a total winner every time.

A white plate with a cooked salmon fillet placed diagonally, showing three layers: the top layer is light orange with specks of minced garlic and fresh green herbs, the middle layer is a soft, flaky texture in a deeper orange color where a piece is lifted with a fork, and the bottom layer is glossy with some juice around. On the right side of the plate, bright green asparagus spears with small bits of garlic and pepper are neatly arranged in a bunch. A lemon wedge sits in the top right corner. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Garlic Lemon Baked Salmon Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Garlic Lemon Baked Salmon Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Garlic Lemon Baked Salmon Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I’ve made plenty of salmon dishes over the years, and this Garlic Lemon Baked Salmon Recipe keeps calling me back. It’s simple, quick, and truly highlights salmon's natural flavor without overwhelming it. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Simple Ingredients: You don’t need a ton of fancy stuff to make this delicious; pantry staples shine here.
Quick and Easy: From prep to table in about 20 minutes - no fuss, just great food.
Moist and Flavorful: That buttery lemon-garlic drizzle keeps the salmon perfectly juicy and tender.
Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you want a casual dinner or something a little fancier, it adapts beautifully.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors in this dish. When picking your salmon, I recommend looking for fresh, wild-caught if possible for richer taste and better texture.

Flat lay of four fresh raw salmon fillets with bright pink flesh, a small white ceramic bowl of melted golden butter, a small white bowl holding pale yellow lemon juice, thin lemon slices arranged neatly, three whole uncracked garlic cloves with smooth white skins, a small heap of coarse kosher salt crystals, a small pile of freshly ground black pepper, a small white bowl filled with finely chopped bright green parsley, and a small white bowl of finely chopped vibrant green dill, all placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Salmon fillets: The star ingredient! Fresh cuts ensure moist, flaky texture after baking.
Butter (melted): Adds richness and helps the lemon and garlic cling to the fish.
Lemon juice: Provides an uplifting brightness that cuts through the richness.
Garlic cloves (minced): Gives a punchy, fragrant depth that complements the salmon.
Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper: Essentials for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
Parsley: Freshness and color — a subtle herbaceous note that lifts the dish.
Dill: Pairs beautifully with salmon for its slight anise flavor and aromatic appeal.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I love experimenting with herbs and spices, and this Garlic Lemon Baked Salmon Recipe is a great blank canvas. You can easily tweak the herbs or add a little heat for a personal twist—don’t be shy about making it yours!

Variation: Sometimes, I sprinkle a bit of smoked paprika or chili flakes on top before baking for a smoky, spicy kick that’s unforgettable.
Herb swaps: If you’re short on dill, basil or tarragon also make lovely alternatives that bring fresh flavors.
Diet-friendly: It’s naturally gluten-free and low-carb, making it a keeper for many dietary needs.
Serving size: Adjust the number of fillets to feed more people or save leftovers, it reheats beautifully.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Garlic Lemon Baked Salmon Recipe

The image shows four cooked salmon fillets placed side by side in a white baking dish. Each fillet has an orange-pink color with a delicate texture and is topped with finely chopped green herbs and small bits of garlic. There is a light layer of melted butter or oil around the fillets, giving a shiny and moist look. Two lemon wedges with pale yellow flesh sit at one corner of the dish, adding a fresh touch. The dish rests on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Prepping Your Salmon and Oven

First, take your salmon out and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This helps it cook evenly. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). It’s that simple start that makes a big difference in the final texture.

Step 2: Making That Lemony Garlic Butter Sauce

Mix your melted butter with lemon juice—it only takes one quick squeeze—and brush this all over your fillets in the baking dish. The butter locks in moisture while the lemon adds that zing that brightens the dish.

Step 3: Season, Bake, and Enjoy

Sprinkle the minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper on top of your salmon. Pop it into the oven for about 12-15 minutes. You’re aiming for perfectly cooked, tender fish that flakes easily but isn’t dry.

Step 4: Fresh Herb Finish

Right after it’s out of the oven, sprinkle the chopped parsley and dill on top. These herbs add a fresh pop of color and lift the flavor to the next level—you won’t want to skip this last touch!

Top Tip

Over the years, I've learned that timing and seasoning are everything with baked salmon—too long in the oven, and your fish dries out, but just right, it’s melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Here’s what works best for me:

Room Temperature Prep: Allow your salmon to warm up before baking so it cooks more evenly without drying out.
Butter and Lemon Balance: Don’t skimp on the butter—it’s key to that succulent texture—and fresh lemon juice really brightens everything.
Watch Your Time: Start checking your salmon around 12 minutes for doneness; ovens vary, so keep an eye so it doesn’t overcook.
Fresh Herbs Last: Adding parsley and dill just before serving keeps their flavor vibrant and fresh—don’t throw them in early!

How to Serve Garlic Lemon Baked Salmon Recipe

Garlic Lemon Salmon - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I usually stick with fresh parsley and dill as garnishes—they add a lovely pop of color and fresh herby notes that complement the lemon and garlic beautifully. On special occasions, a few thin lemon slices or a sprinkle of capers take it up another notch.

Side Dishes

This salmon goes perfectly with simple sides like roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. When I want something heartier, I serve it with wild rice or quinoa tossed with fresh herbs and lemon zest.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, I’ve served this salmon on a bed of colorful vegetable ribbons, garnished with edible flowers and fresh herbs—it looks stunning and tastes just as good. You can even plate individual fillets on slate boards with a side of lemon wedges and herb sprigs for a minimalist, elegant feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I like to store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep it moist, I sometimes drizzle a little melted butter or a squeeze of lemon juice before sealing it up. It reheats nicely without drying out if you handle it gently.

Freezing

If you plan to freeze, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or use freezer-safe bags. Frozen cooked salmon lasts about 1-2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, I find the oven or toaster oven works best—heat at 275°F (135°C) for about 10-15 minutes, covering loosely with foil to preserve moisture. Microwaving can work if you’re in a hurry but be careful not to overcook or you’ll lose that flaky texture.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has turned opaque all the way through. Usually, it takes around 12-15 minutes at 375°F, but oven temps vary. Keep an eye after 12 minutes to avoid overcooking.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon but it’s best to thaw it completely in the fridge before baking. This ensures it cooks evenly and achieves that perfect flaky texture.

Can I bake this recipe without butter?

Butter adds richness and moisture to the salmon, but you can substitute with olive oil if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free option. Just brush the olive oil mixed with lemon juice over the salmon for similar delicious results.

What sides pair best with Garlic Lemon Baked Salmon?

Fresh green vegetables like roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a crisp salad are classic choices. For something heartier, quinoa, wild rice, or garlic mashed potatoes complement the salmon perfectly and soak up the buttery lemon sauce.

Final Thoughts

I honestly can’t recommend this Garlic Lemon Baked Salmon Recipe enough—it’s become my go-to whenever I want something that feels both comforting and elegant without taking hours. You’ll love how easy and satisfying it is, and once you try it, I have a feeling it’ll find a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. Give it a shot and enjoy every juicy, garlicky, zesty bite!