Best Easy Healthy Baked Salmon
This foolproof method delivers perfectly flaky, moisture-rich salmon with minimal prep and cleanup. By roasting at a slightly higher temperature for a shorter duration, you lock in the natural juices while creating a beautiful, savory glaze on the surface.
Ingredients
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, preferably skin-on for moisture
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted grass-fed butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley and lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Heat your oven to 400°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels; removing surface moisture is the secret to getting a good sear in the oven.
- Season: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and paprika. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and brush the mixture generously over the tops and sides of each piece. Season well with salt and pepper.
- Bake: Roast the salmon until the thickest part of the fillet is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. This typically takes 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. For an internal temperature check, aim for 145°F.
- Finish: Remove from the oven and let the fish rest for 2 to 3 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute so the salmon stays moist. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon before serving.
