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To make Zesty Lemon Garlic Salmon, gather these key items: - 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each) - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 4 cloves of garlic, finely minced - Zest of 1 medium lemon - Juice from 2 medium lemons - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard - 1 teaspoon honey - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste These ingredients create a bright and bold flavor. The olive oil adds richness. The garlic gives a nice punch. Lemon zest and juice brighten the dish. Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang. Honey balances the flavors with sweetness. Dried oregano adds an earthy note. You can elevate your dish with these garnishes: - Fresh parsley, finely chopped Chopped parsley adds color and freshness. It makes the dish look appealing and tastes great too. You can also add lemon slices for extra zest and flair. Each serving of Zesty Lemon Garlic Salmon has: - Calories: 350 - Protein: 30 grams - Fat: 20 grams - Carbohydrates: 6 grams - Fiber: 1 gram This dish is high in protein and healthy fats. Salmon provides omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health. The lemon and garlic add flavor without extra calories. Enjoy this dish knowing it's tasty and nutritious! {{ingredient_image_2}} First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat cooks the salmon evenly. Next, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and keeps the salmon from sticking. In a bowl, mix together 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 4 minced garlic cloves. Add the zest of one lemon and the juice from two lemons. Then, stir in 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of honey, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Season the mix with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Whisk it all until smooth. This marinade is where the flavor comes from. Take your 4 salmon fillets and place them on the baking sheet, skin-side down. Use a brush to coat each fillet with the lemon garlic mixture. Make sure every bit of salmon gets covered. This step helps the flavors soak in. Let the salmon sit for at least 15 minutes. This marinating time gives the fish a bold taste. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The cooking time may change based on how thick your fillets are. The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and the flesh looks opaque. When it’s done, take it out and sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and taste. Enjoy your flavorful dish! To cook salmon perfectly, aim for a temperature of 145°F. The fish will flake easily when done. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Thicker fillets may need more time. Keep an eye on it. Overcooking salmon can make it dry. You want it moist and tender. For more flavor, add herbs like dill or thyme. Fresh herbs can elevate the taste. You can also mix in some red pepper flakes for heat. Lemon zest adds brightness. Always season well with salt and pepper. Letting the salmon marinate helps the flavors soak in. Serve your salmon on a colorful plate. A bed of steamed asparagus looks great. You can also add a mixed green salad for freshness. Drizzle leftover sauce on top for a nice touch. Sprinkle fresh parsley for color. A lemon wedge adds a pop of brightness. Pro Tips Choose Fresh Salmon: Select salmon fillets that are bright in color and have a fresh smell for the best flavor and texture. Marinate for Flavor: Allow the salmon to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the zesty lemon garlic flavors deeply. Check for Doneness: Ensure the salmon is cooked through by checking that it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center. Rest Before Serving: Let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute for a moister fillet. {{image_4}} You can swap salmon for chicken or tofu. Chicken thighs or breasts work well. Just adjust the cooking time. Tofu absorbs flavors nicely and gives a vegan option. Use firm tofu for the best texture. Marinate it just like the salmon for a tasty meal. Feel free to mix up the herbs. Try fresh dill or thyme for a new taste. Basil adds a sweet touch, while rosemary gives a bold flavor. You can even add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Each change brings a fresh twist to your dish. Serve the salmon with simple side dishes. Steamed asparagus or broccoli adds color and nutrients. A mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette brightens the plate. Quinoa or rice can soak up any extra sauce. These sides make your meal feel complete and balanced. To store your leftover salmon, let it cool first. Once cool, place the salmon in an airtight container. Make sure to put a piece of parchment paper between the fillets for easy removal. This keeps the salmon fresh and helps avoid sogginess. Store the container in the fridge. Enjoy your leftovers within three days for the best taste. To reheat your salmon, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to avoid drying out. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave if you're in a hurry. Heat it on a microwave-safe plate for 30 seconds at a time. Check often to prevent overcooking. If you want to freeze the salmon, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. Salmon can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. You should bake salmon at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes. The exact time depends on how thick the fillets are. You know the salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. The flesh should look opaque all the way through. Yes, you can use fresh garlic instead of minced. Just chop it finely. Fresh garlic will give your dish a strong, bright flavor. It can make the salmon taste even better. If you don't have Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard. You might also try honey mustard or whole grain mustard. Each option changes the flavor a bit, but it will still be tasty. Yes, salmon skin is both edible and healthy. It contains healthy fats like omega-3s. Eating the skin adds flavor and texture to your meal. Just make sure it's properly cooked and crispy for the best taste. This blog post covered the key steps for making zesty lemon garlic salmon. You learned about essential ingredients, how to prep and bake salmon, and tips for a perfect dish. I shared ways to customize the recipe and how to store your tasty leftovers. Enjoy cooking this dish with confidence. You can impress anyone with a simple meal that’s both healthy and delicious!

Zesty Lemon Garlic Salmon

A flavorful salmon dish infused with zesty lemon and garlic, perfect for a healthy meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets salmon fillets (approximately 6 ounces each)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 medium lemon zest
  • 2 medium lemons, juiced
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • to taste salt and freshly cracked black pepper
  • for garnish fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it's hot enough for an even cook.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, freshly squeezed lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and place the salmon fillets on it, skin-side down.
  • Generously brush the lemon garlic mixture over the salmon fillets, ensuring every fillet is distinctly coated to enhance the flavor.
  • Allow the salmon to marinate at room temperature for a minimum of 15 minutes — this will infuse the fillets with delicious flavor.
  • Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake the salmon for 12 to 15 minutes. Cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the flesh is opaque throughout.
  • Carefully remove the salmon from the oven. For a fresh touch, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over each fillet just before serving.

Notes

For a stunning plate, serve the salmon on a vibrant bed of steamed asparagus or a refreshing mixed green salad. Drizzle any remaining lemon garlic sauce from the baking sheet over the salmon to enhance the flavor and presentation.
Keyword garlic, healthy, lemon, salmon, seafood