This Lemon Herb Salmon is a tasty fish dish with bright lemon flavor and fresh herbs. It’s quick to cook and perfect for a healthy dinner or a special meal. The salmon stays moist and full of flavor.
I like squeezing a little extra lemon on top before I eat. It makes me smile every time—so fresh and zingy! I keep some chopped herbs nearby to sprinkle on right before serving.
For an easy side, I serve it with steamed veggies or rice. It’s simple, light, and always gets compliments. Plus, it’s healthy and feels fancy without much effort!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: I recommend fresh wild-caught or farmed salmon fillets. For a milder flavor, try trout or cod, which work well with lemon and herbs. Make sure your fish is skinless or with skin on if grilling. Frozen salmon can work if thawed properly.
Lemon: Use fresh lemon juice and zest for bright, vibrant flavor. If lemons aren’t available, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but fresh adds more zing. Lime or orange zest can be a fun substitute for a different twist.
Fresh Herbs: I love parsley and dill here—they’re bright and fresh. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried herbs can be used—just halve the amount since they’re more concentrated. Basil or thyme are nice alternatives.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor—mince finely or crush then chop. If you’re short on fresh, garlic powder can work, but use half the amount. It’s key to balancing the lemon and herb flavors.
Olive Oil: Use good-quality extra virgin olive oil for richness. If you don’t have olive oil, avocado oil is a mild alternative. It helps keep the fish moist and adds flavor without overpowering the herbs.
How do I sear salmon without it drying out?
Pat the salmon dry with a paper towel before cooking to get a good sear. Use medium-high heat and don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook skin-side down first, about 3-4 minutes, then flip to finish for even doneness. Avoid moving the fish too much.
- Make sure your pan is hot before adding oil—a ripple of shimmer means it’s ready.
- Place the salmon skin-side down and press lightly to ensure contact with the pan.
- Cook undisturbed until the edges look cooked and the skin is crispy—about 3-4 minutes.
- Flip carefully and cook another 2-3 minutes, or until just opaque in the center.
How to Make Lemon Herb Salmon?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Lemon Herb Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 10 minutes, Cooking: 15 minutes, Total: 25 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Oven and Salmon
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Pat the salmon fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Make Lemon Herb Sauce
Mix lemon juice, garlic, parsley, and lemon zest in a small bowl. Set aside.
3. Sear the Salmon
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear salmon for 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Bake the Salmon
Place the seared salmon in an oven-proof dish. Drizzle with lemon herb sauce. Bake for 10-12 minutes.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Transfer to plates. Garnish with extra parsley if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
