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Garlic Lemon Salmon Easy Dinner

This Garlic Lemon Salmon recipe is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner option ready in under 30 minutes. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and bursting with zesty flavors, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 Salmon fillets 6-8 ounces each
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 Lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 teaspoon Honey optional

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or foil
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk
  • Large skillet (for pan-searing)
  • Grill (for grilling)
  • Tongs
  • Meat thermometer
  • Lemon zester
  • Juicer
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or preheat grill to medium heat.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper on both sides.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped fresh herbs. Add red pepper flakes or honey, if using.
  4. For baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Place salmon fillets on the sheet, skin-side down. Pour the garlic lemon sauce over the salmon.
  5. For pan-searing: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down. Sear until crispy. Flip and cook until done.
  6. For grilling: Lightly oil the grill grates. Place salmon fillets on the grill, skin-side down. Grill until cooked through. Brush with garlic lemon sauce during the last few minutes.
  7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, pan-sear for 4-5 minutes per side, or grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  8. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
  9. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes.
  10. Garnish with extra fresh herbs and a lemon wedge. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don't overcook the salmon for best results. Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness (145°F/63°C). For crispy skin, pat the salmon dry before cooking. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Variations include Spicy Garlic Lemon Salmon (add red pepper flakes), Honey Garlic Lemon Salmon (add honey), and Garlic Lemon Herb Salmon (experiment with different herbs).