Description
A quick and flavorful baked salmon recipe featuring a zesty marinade of fresh parsley, garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Perfectly cooked in under 20 minutes, this healthy meal is flaky, juicy, and garnished with lemon slices for added brightness.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 1 1/2 lb salmon fillet (cut into 4 filets)
Marinade
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 2 Tbsp extra light olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves (minced, pressed, or grated)
- 1/2 Tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper (freshly cracked)
Garnish
- 1/2 lemon (sliced into 4 rings for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare salmon: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with a silicone liner, parchment paper, or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out evenly.
- Make the marinade: In a small bowl, combine the chopped fresh parsley, minced garlic, extra light olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, fine sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the marinade is smooth.
- Apply marinade and garnish: Generously brush the marinade over the top and sides of each salmon fillet to ensure full coverage and flavor penetration. Then, place one lemon slice on top of each fillet to add a subtle citrus aroma and visual appeal.
- Bake the salmon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes. Check doneness by ensuring the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part using an instant-read thermometer. Avoid overcooking to maintain moistness and tenderness.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcook the salmon to keep it moist and flaky.
- If you don't have fresh parsley, you can substitute with dried parsley but use half the amount.
- You can use any mild vegetable oil instead of extra light olive oil if preferred.
- Let the salmon rest a few minutes after baking for juicier texture.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American