Description
A quick, fuss-free baked salmon recipe using just five simple ingredients, perfect for busy weeknights. This dish features fresh lemon and cracked black pepper for a bright, flavorful, and healthy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz / 170g each), skin-on, wild-caught if possible
- 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and remove any pin bones.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper until emulsified.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down on a parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet.
- Brush or spoon the lemon pepper mixture evenly over the salmon flesh.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, checking at 12 minutes for doneness. The salmon should flake easily with a fork but remain moist.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Notes
Patting the salmon dry before seasoning is key for crispy skin. Use fresh lemon zest and freshly cracked black pepper for best flavor. Watch the baking time closely to avoid overcooking. Let the salmon rest after baking to keep it juicy. Frozen salmon can be used if thawed overnight and patted dry.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (abo
- Calories: 320
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 1
- Protein: 34
Keywords: baked salmon, lemon pepper salmon, easy salmon recipe, healthy dinner, quick weeknight meal, 5-ingredient dinner, omega-3 rich, gluten-free salmon