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Delicious Lemon-Pepper Salmon served as a flavorful and healthy featured dish.

Best Lemon-Pepper Salmon Ever

This recipe delivers perfectly balanced and mouthwatering Lemon-Pepper Salmon. The key is to marinate the salmon for maximum flavor infusion and use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking, ensuring a moist and flaky result. Serve with your favorite roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 lemons, zested and juiced
  • 2 tablespoons coarsely ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Small bowl
  • Whisk
  • Shallow dish or zip-top bag
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper (optional)
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  2. Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the salmon, ensuring each fillet is well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
  3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  4. Bake the Salmon: Remove the salmon from the marinade (discard the marinade). Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets). Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
  5. Broil (Optional): For extra browning and a crispier top, broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the salmon for up to 2 hours. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to avoid overcooking. Broiling for the last 1-2 minutes will add extra browning and crispiness. Serve with roasted vegetables, salad, quinoa or rice. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.