Lemon Garlic Salmon

This Lemon Garlic Salmon is a delightful seafood dish featuring succulent salmon fillets coated in zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and a blend of savory spices. Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of this easy-to-make salmon recipe that transforms fresh ingredients into a culinary masterpiece.

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Updated July 2023

Lemon Garlic Salmon

Are you craving a mouthwatering dish that’s both healthy and bursting with flavor? This Lemon Garlic Salmon recipe is the perfect blend of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and savory spices, all complementing the succulent salmon fillets. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy your culinary cravings.

With this easy lemon garlic salmon recipe, you’re just a few steps away from a delightful seafood feast that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving a family dinner or hosting a special gathering, this dish is bound to impress. The fusion of lemon, garlic, and spices creates a burst of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Recipe Ingredients

For the salmon

• Salmon: Choose a large, fresh salmon fillet or individual salmon fillets for this recipe. The richness and delicate flavor of salmon make it a popular choice among seafood enthusiasts. The skin on the fillet helps keep the fish moist during cooking, adding a crispy texture to the final dish.
• Avocado Oil or Olive Oil: These heart-healthy oils serve as the base for our marinade, ensuring the salmon stays moist and tender while adding a subtle nutty taste.
• Sea Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish and balances the other ingredients. You can adjust the amount to your taste preference.
• Garlic: Finely minced or grated garlic infuses the salmon with a delightful aroma and a hint of pungent flavor, elevating the taste profile.
• Black Pepper: Adds a gentle kick of heat and complements the other seasonings.
• Smoked Paprika: This spice adds a unique smoky flavor to the salmon, making it stand out and tantalizing to the palate.
• Chili Powder: Offers a touch of spice to the marinade, giving the dish a subtle kick without overwhelming the taste.

For the salmon marinade

• Coconut Aminos or Gluten-Free Tamari/Low Sodium Soy Sauce: Acts as a savory, umami-rich element that enhances the overall taste profile and adds depth to the marinade.
• Lemon: The star of the show! Lemon juice infuses the salmon with a bright, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with seafood.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Provides a touch of sweetness to balance the savory and tangy flavors of the dish. Feel free to use your favorite sticky liquid sweetener to keep this salmon recipe lower in carbs and sugar. Omit for keto or Whole30.
• Fresh Chopped Parsley: This herb adds a burst of freshness and vibrant color to the salmon, making it visually appealing.
• Lemon Slices: Besides contributing to the flavor, these lemon slices also serve as an attractive garnish for the finished dish.

Instructions: How to make Lemon Garlic Salmon

• Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). If you prefer grilling, we’ve got you covered in the FAQs below.
• Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with a large sheet of parchment paper or heavy-duty aluminum foil. This step will make cleaning up a breeze and prevent the salmon from sticking to the sheet.
• Prep the Salmon: Place your salmon fillet (or individual fillets) on the lined baking sheet. Drizzle the avocado oil or olive oil over the salmon to give it a luscious coating. Sprinkle sea salt and black pepper to taste, ensuring your salmon is seasoned to perfection.
• Add Flavorful Spices: Rub the smoked paprika and chili powder onto the salmon, infusing it with delightful smokiness and a hint of heat. Grate or finely mince the garlic and spread it evenly on top of the salmon.
• Lemon Magic: Slide lemon slices halfway underneath the salmon for a burst of fresh citrus flavor. The lemon will infuse the salmon with its tangy essence during the baking process.

Create the Lemon Garlic Marinade:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut aminos (or your preferred substitute), lemon juice, and honey (or maple syrup). Drizzle this flavorful marinade evenly over the salmon, ensuring each bite is imbued with deliciousness.
• Marinating Time (Optional): For intensified flavors, allow the salmon to marinate for at least 15 minutes. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and proceed directly to the next.
• Add Vegetables (Optional): If you want a complete meal with vegetables, spread a bunch of asparagus and broccoli florets on the baking sheet alongside the salmon. Drizzle them with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Bake It to Perfection: Bake the salmon (and vegetables, if added) in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. After that, move the vegetables to the side, making room for the salmon in the middle of the sheet. Slide lemon slices underneath the salmon again for a burst of citrusy goodness.
• Broil for a Caramelized Finish: After baking, open the foil and switch the oven to broil mode. Cook the salmon for an additional 2-4 minutes, or until it’s caramelized and slightly charred on the edges. Be cautious not to overcook the fish; the flaky texture is best enjoyed when cooked just right.
• Serve and Enjoy: Once done, remove the salmon from the oven. Cut it into sections, discard the skin, and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and add a splash of lemon juice for an extra pop of flavor. Now, indulge in the scrumptiousness of your Lemon Garlic Salmon!

Tips for Success

• Quality Matters: Use fresh, high-quality salmon to ensure the best taste and texture. Look for wild-caught salmon for the most flavorful results.
• Marinate for Flavor: For enhanced taste, allow the salmon to marinate in the mixture of coconut aminos, lemon juice, and honey for at least 15 minutes before cooking.
• Prevent Overcooking: Be cautious not to overcook the salmon. It should be flaky and moist, not dry and rubbery. Keep an eye on the cooking time to achieve the desired doneness.

Storage and Freezer Instructions

• Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled salmon tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the salmon on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in an air fryer basket. Heat it at 275°F in the oven for about 15 minutes or for 2-3 minutes in the air fryer. Heating salmon low and slow ensures that it won’t dry out.

Serving Suggestions

This Lemon Garlic Salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with a caesar salad, cauliflower fried rice, or roasted vegetables. The flavors also complement rice or couscous for a satisfying meal.

Variations and Substitutions

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for an extra spicy kick.
• Herb Alternatives: Swap parsley with cilantro or dill for a different herbaceous twist.
• Citrus Swaps: Experiment with lime or orange juice instead of lemon for a unique flavor profile.
• Vegetable Medley: Instead of asparagus and broccoli, try other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for a colorful and nutritious side.
• Cooking Method: Want to keep the oven free? You can also cook the salmon in the airy fryer like our Air Fryer Salmon, grill the salmon on the barbecue like our Perfect Grilled Salmon, or pan-fry your salmon on a skillet over the stove-top like our Seared Salmon

Helpful Cooking Information and Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Grill the Lemon Garlic Salmon Instead?

Absolutely! Grilling the salmon is another fantastic option. Simply preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillet (or fillets) on a well-oiled grill grate, skin-side down. Cook the salmon for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it’s flaky and cooked to your desired doneness. Remember to add the lemon slices underneath the salmon during grilling for that signature citrus touch.

2. What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Salmon?

To store leftover Lemon Garlic Salmon, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days. If you need to keep it longer, consider freezing the cooled salmon. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. The frozen salmon will maintain its quality for up to 2 months.

3. Can I Customize the Recipe to My Taste Preferences?

Absolutely! Cooking is an art, and you’re free to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can experiment with different citrus fruits, herbs, or spices to create your unique version. Additionally, if you’re vegetarian or looking for alternatives, you can swap the salmon with tofu or tempeh and follow the same cooking instructions.

4. How Do I Prevent Overcooking the Salmon?

The key to avoiding overcooked salmon is vigilance. Keep a close eye on the baking or grilling process and check for flakiness. Salmon cooks quickly, so once it’s flaky to your liking, it’s ready to be enjoyed. Overcooking can lead to dryness, and we want you to savor the moist, flavorful goodness of this dish!

Now that you’re armed with all the information and tips, it’s time to embark on a culinary adventure with our baked salmon with lemon garlic.  We’re confident it will become a go-to recipe for its unbeatable taste and ease of preparation.

More easy salmon recipes you will love:

Pan Seared Salmon

Mediterranean Salmon Foil Packets

Baked Teriyaki Salmon

4.93 from 26 votes

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Lemon Garlic Salmon

Prep Time

8 mins

Cook Time

16 mins

Total Time

24 mins

 

This Lemon Garlic Salmon is a delightful seafood dish featuring succulent salmon fillets coated in zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and a blend of savory spices. Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of Lemon Garlic of this easy-to-make recipe that transforms fresh ingredients into a culinary masterpiece.

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: baked salmon, honey salmon, lemon garlic salmon, lemon salmon

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 121 kcal

Author: Kelly

Ingredients

• 1 large 1-1/2 - 2 pound salmon fillet or 4 salmon (4-6 ounce) fillets, skin on
• 1/2 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
• 1/2 tsp sea salt or to taste
• 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper or to taste
• 2 cloves garlic , finely minced or grated
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp chili powder
• 2 tbsp coconut aminos , can substitute with gluten-free tamari low sodium soy sauce if not gluten-free
• juice from 1 lemon
• 2-3 tbsp honey or maple syrup , can sub with your favorite sticky liquid sweetener such as sugar-free maple syrup to keep this salmon recipe lower in carbs and sugar or omit entirely for keto or Whole30.
• 2-3 tbsp fresh chopped parsley divided
• lemon slices for garnish

To Make This with Vegetables:

• 1 large bunch asparagus ends trimmed
• 1 cup broccoli florets

Instructions

Oven Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (see below for grilling**). Line a baking sheet with a large sheet of parchment paper or heavy-duty aluminum foil. Lay salmon on top and drizzle with oil. Season with salt and pepper. Rub paprika, chili powder and garlic on salmon and slide lemon slices halfway underneath the salmon, as pictured.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lemon juice, and honey and drizzle evenly over salmon. Sprinkle with half of the parsley, fold parchment paper or foil sides up to prevent juices from leaking through (does not have to cover salmon). (Let the salmon marinate for at least 15 minutes if you have time.)

3. For a complete meal with vegetables (omit this step if not making vegetables) - spread sheet pan with asparagus and broccoli florets and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper, to taste.

   Bake in preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and move the vegetables to the side, making room for the salmon. Place the salmon in the middle of the sheet pan and slide lemon slices underneath the salmon. Place another sheet of foil loosely over the salmon

4. Bake for 12-16 minutes (depending on how large your fish is), or until the salmon is flaky to your desired doneness but try not overcook. Open the foil and turn oven to broil - cooking for an additional 2-4 minutes, or until caramelized and slightly charred.

5. Cut into sections and discard skin and serve immediately with more chopped parsley, season with more salt (if needed) and a splash of lemon juice.

Grilling Instructions

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Line a baking sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil, then place a slightly smaller sheet of parchment paper on top of the foil (optional if you prefer parchment paper).

   Place salmon on top and season as instructed above. Seal up the salmon with the foil (and parchment) and place directly onto grill. Grill for 5-6 minutes, then flip over and grill for an additional 3-4 minutes (depending on the thickness of the salmon) or until salmon is flaky.

   Remove from the grill and carefully open the foil packets. Cut into sections, discard skin and serve immediately with more chopped parsley, season with more salt (if needed) and a splash of lemon juice.

Recipe Notes

How to store:

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

How to freeze:

To freeze, wrap the cooled salmon tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to reheat:

To reheat, place the salmon on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in an air fryer basket. Heat it at 275°F in the oven for about 15 minutes or for 2-3 minutes in the air fryer. Heating salmon low and slow ensures that it won't dry out. 

Nutrition Facts

Lemon Garlic Salmon

Amount Per Serving (1 serving)

Calories 121 Calories from Fat 36

% Daily Value*

Fat 4g6%

Carbohydrates 11g4%

Sugar 6g7%

Protein 9g18%

* Nutrition facts are provided as a courtesy using the WPRM recipe calculator. It is best to make your own calculations to ensure accuracy. We expressly disclaim any and all liability of any kind with respect to any act or omission wholly or in part in reliance on anything contained in this website. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.