Easy Oven-Baked Salmon Recipe – Quick, Healthy & Delicious Dinner!

Table of Contents: Oven Baked Salmon

The Perfect Weeknight Dinner That’s Ready in Minutes!

Imagine this: tender, flaky salmon with a golden crust, infused with garlic, lemon, and herbs, melting in your mouth with every bite. Sounds irresistible, right? This Oven-Baked Salmon is not just a meal—it’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights, a healthy dinner option, and a dish that impresses every time.

Salmon is one of the most versatile proteins out there. It cooks quickly, pairs beautifully with countless flavors, and delivers a powerhouse of nutrients like omega-3s, protein, and vitamin D. Plus, baking it in the oven means minimal effort for maximum flavor. No need to babysit a pan or worry about overcooking—just pop it in, set a timer, and let the oven do the work!

If you love quick and healthy dinners like our Easy Shrimp Scampi Recipe for a Flavorful Weeknight Dinner, you’ll adore this salmon recipe. It’s just as easy but with a different protein twist. Ready to make the best Oven-Baked Salmon of your life? Let’s get cooking!


What is Oven-Baked Salmon?

Have you ever wondered why something so simple tastes so divine? Oven-Baked Salmon is exactly what it sounds like—fresh salmon fillets roasted to perfection in the oven. But don’t let the simplicity fool you. This dish is packed with flavor, thanks to a mix of herbs, citrus, and a touch of butter or olive oil.

Some say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, but honestly, this salmon will win over anyone’s heart. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, a family dinner, or just meal prepping for the week, this recipe never disappoints.

So why is it called Oven-Baked Salmon? Because it’s straightforward, no-fuss, and foolproof. No complicated techniques, no fancy equipment—just pure, delicious salmon. Ready to give it a try?


Why You’ll Love This Oven-Baked Salmon

1. Quick & Foolproof – With just 15 minutes in the oven, this salmon is perfect for busy nights. No flipping, no guessing—just set it and forget it!
2. Budget-Friendly – Skip the expensive restaurant version. Homemade salmon is just as delicious at a fraction of the cost.
3. Flavor-Packed – A mix of garlic, lemon, and herbs gives this salmon a bright, savory taste that’s impossible to resist.

If you loved our 5-Minute Miso Glazed Salmon Easy & Delicious Dinner Idea!, you’ll appreciate this simpler yet equally delicious version. Ready to make dinner magic?


How to Make Oven-Baked Salmon

Oven Baked Salmon
Oven Baked Salmon

Quick Overview

This recipe takes less than 20 minutes from prep to plate. The salmon turns out juicy, flaky, and full of flavor with minimal effort.

Key Ingredients

4 salmon fillets (skin-on or off)
2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 lemon (juiced + slices for garnish)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp paprika
Salt & black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat salmon dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy exterior.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, then rub minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper onto the fillets.
4. Squeeze lemon juice over the salmon and place lemon slices on top.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.


What to Serve with Oven-Baked Salmon

This salmon pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. Try:
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus
Lemon Butter Rice
Quinoa Salad with Feta & Cucumber
Crusty Bread with Herbed Butter

For a full meal idea, check out our Keto Salmon Power Bowl Recipe: The Ultimate Low-Carb Meal You’ll Love.


Top Tips for Perfecting Oven-Baked Salmon

Don’t overcook! Salmon is best at medium-rare to medium (internal temp of 125-130°F).
Use fresh lemon juice—bottled won’t give the same bright flavor.
Skin-on vs. skin-off? Skin keeps the salmon moist, but you can remove it before eating.


Storing and Reheating Tips

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat: Gently warm in the oven at 275°F (135°C) for 10 minutes to avoid drying out.


People Also Ask: Oven-Baked Salmon

Oven Baked Salmon
Oven Baked Salmon

What temperature is best for baking salmon in the oven?

The ideal temperature is 400°F (200°C). This ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.

How long should salmon be baked?

For 1-inch thick fillets, bake for 12-15 minutes. Thicker cuts may need 15-18 minutes.

How do you season salmon for baking?

A simple mix of garlic, lemon, salt, pepper, and herbs works best. For extra flavor, add a drizzle of honey or soy sauce.

Should I cover salmon when baking?

No! Covering traps steam, making the salmon soggy. Leave it uncovered for a crispy top.


Final Thoughts

This Oven-Baked Salmon is a game-changer—quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe guarantees perfect results every time.

Ready to make it? Grab your ingredients and let’s get baking! And if you loved this, don’t miss our Salmon Bites – The Ultimate Guide to Crispy, Juicy Perfection for another delicious twist.

Happy cooking! 🍽️

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Oven Baked Salmon

Oven Baked Salmon


  • Author: Crystal
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A simple, healthy, and flavorful oven baked salmon recipe, perfectly seasoned and cooked to tender perfection.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon (sliced)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  3. Place salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared sheet.
  4. Drizzle olive oil over the fillets.
  5. Sprinkle with garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  6. Top each fillet with lemon slices.
  7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
  8. Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the salmon with the seasonings for 15–20 minutes before baking.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 fillet
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: oven baked salmon, salmon recipe, healthy fish, baked fish, quick dinner