Classic Baked Salmon
Main25 min4 servingsEasyAbout this recipe
A foolproof, family-friendly baked salmon that delivers tender, flaky fish every time. Seasoned simply with garlic, lemon, and herbs, then finished with a buttery glaze — this is the kind of recipe you'll come back to week after week. Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to ![400°F]. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil. This makes cleanup a breeze.
- 2
Pat the salmon dry thoroughly with paper towels — this helps the glaze stick and promotes even cooking. Place the salmon skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- 3
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic minced, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined.
- 4
In a separate small mixing bowl, mix together the kosher salt, black pepper, paprika smoked, and Italian seasoning. Sprinkle the spice blend evenly over the top and sides of the salmon.
- 5
Spoon or brush the butter-garlic glaze generously over the entire top surface of the salmon, letting it pool slightly around the edges.
- 6
If using lemon slices for garnish, tuck them around and on top of the salmon now. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillet. As a rule of thumb, allow about 4–6 minutes per half-inch of thickness.
- 7
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the thickest part reads %[125–130°F] on an meat thermometer for medium (slightly translucent in the center) or %[145°F] for fully cooked. The flesh should have turned from deep pink to a lighter, opaque color on the outside.
- 8
Remove from the oven and let the salmon rest for 2–3 minutes. Spoon any pan juices back over the top, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side.
