Oven Roasted Salmon

Name: Oven Roasted Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, sliced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and black pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love preparing Oven Roasted Salmon for a quick and healthy meal, especially on busy weeknights. It’s a dish that always impresses with its delightful flavors and simple preparation. The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon elevates the salmon while keeping it moist and tender. Plus, I can get everything on the baking sheet in just a few minutes, making cleanup a breeze. This recipe never fails to become a family favorite and is versatile enough for any occasion.

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:28:09.121Z

When I first tried Oven Roasted Salmon, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful it turned out. I used fresh herbs from my garden, which added a vibrant freshness to the dish. Baking it in the oven allows the salmon to cook evenly, resulting in a perfectly flaky texture that’s hard to resist.

One of my favorite tips is to marinate the salmon for just a few minutes before roasting. A mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs forms a delicious glaze that caramelizes during cooking, enhancing the overall flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal.

        Why You’ll Love This Recipe
        Flavorful seasoning enhances each bite of tender salmon
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
Healthy and satisfying meal option that everyone will enjoy

      

Choosing the Best Salmon

When preparing oven roasted salmon, selecting the right type of salmon is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture. I recommend opting for wild-caught salmon if available, as it typically has a firmer texture and richer flavor compared to farmed varieties. Look for fresh, vibrant orange fillets that have a moist appearance and no off-putting smells. If you're unsure about freshness, ask your fishmonger to recommend the best catch of the day.

For those who prefer a milder taste, you can use salmon alternatives like trout or arctic char, which also work well with this recipe. If you are looking for a lower-fat option, consider using coho salmon instead of more fatty species like king salmon. Regardless of your choice, always ensure a gentle cooking method to maintain the delicate flakiness of the fish.

Herb and Citrus Pairing

The combination of fresh parsley and lemon slices not only brightens the dish but also adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the salmon. Fresh herbs play a significant role in enhancing the dish's flavor. If parsley isn't on hand, dill or cilantro can serve as excellent alternatives, each bringing its unique profile to the dish. Be sure to use freshly chopped herbs, as they retain a stronger fragrance and flavor compared to dried.

As for the lemon, slicing it thinly allows for maximum infusion of its Zesty flavor throughout the fish during roasting. If you're looking for an even more intense citrus flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the marinade. This small addition can elevate the overall taste profile, making each bite pleasurable and aromatic.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious oven-roasted salmon dish:

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, sliced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste

These ingredients come together beautifully to create a vibrant and healthy meal.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Oven Roasted Salmon:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the olive oil mixture over the salmon and top with lemon slices and chopped parsley.

Roast the Salmon

Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve with your favorite sides.

Enjoy your deliciously roasted salmon as a healthy and satisfying meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the advantages of this oven roasted salmon recipe is its make-ahead potential. You can marinate the salmon up to 30 minutes in advance. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated during this time. This not only shortens the cooking time on busy weeknights but also allows the flavors from the marinade to penetrate the fish more deeply, enriching the overall taste.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps prevent the salmon from becoming overly dry, ensuring a tasty meal even the next day.

Serving Suggestions

Oven roasted salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that complement its flavors. For a quick and healthy meal, consider serving the fish alongside roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or brussels sprouts. These can be added to the baking sheet in the last 10 minutes of cooking for an effortless and inclusive dinner.

Another great idea is to prepare a simple grain-based side, like quinoa or brown rice, seasoned with a bit of lemon juice and olive oil. This not only rounds out the meal but also helps soak up any delicious juices from the salmon. You could even serve the dish with a light salad topped with a citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing touch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before marinating and roasting.

→ What sides go well with oven-roasted salmon?

Roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad are great options to serve with salmon.

→ How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can marinate the salmon a few hours in advance, but it's best to roast it fresh for the best texture.