Oven Roasted Salmon

Name: Oven Roasted Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Oven Roasted Salmon at home—it's one of those meals that feels indulgent yet is simple to prepare. The combination of fresh herbs and a splash of lemon elevates the dish, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. I appreciate how quickly it comes together in just a few steps, and the oven does all the heavy lifting while I can focus on preparing my sides. Trust me, once you try this recipe, salmon will become your go-to choice for a quick, healthy meal!

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-20T00:43:08.265Z

When I first attempted to perfect my Oven Roasted Salmon, I experimented with various herbs and seasoning blends. Eventually, I found that a mix of dill, garlic, and a touch of olive oil truly highlights the salmon’s natural flavors. I also learned that letting the fish rest for a few minutes after roasting helps maintain its juiciness, which makes all the difference!

One of the tips that made a huge impact was preheating the baking sheet before adding the salmon. This quick method ensures a beautiful, crispy skin right from the start. Prepare your sides ahead of time, and once the salmon is in the oven, you’ll have a marvelous dinner ready in no time!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh herbs enhance the natural flavors of the salmon
Quick and easy preparation makes it a weeknight favorite
Perfectly flaky and tender with a crispy skin

      

Understanding Salmon Selection

When choosing salmon for this recipe, opt for wild-caught salmon if possible, as it tends to have better flavor and texture compared to farmed varieties. Look for fillets that are vibrant in color, preferably deep pink or red, and avoid any with dull or gray hues. Fresh salmon should have a mild smell, not overly fishy. For a more sustainable option, check for certifications like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) label.

If you can't find salmon fillets, this recipe can be adapted to work with whole salmon or salmon steaks. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly—whole fish may require 5-10 minutes more in the oven, while steaks may take less. The key is to monitor the internal temperature; aim for about 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked salmon.

Enhancing Flavor with Marinades

The marinade for this Oven Roasted Salmon is crucial for infusing flavor into the fish. The combination of olive oil, garlic, and fresh dill not only enhances the natural taste but also serves to keep the salmon moist during cooking. If you want to shake things up, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a bit of zing or swapping out dill for fresh parsley or cilantro.

Marinading can transform the flavor profile entirely. For a deeper taste, allow the salmon to sit in the marinade for 30 minutes before cooking. Just be cautious not to let it marinate for too long, as the acidity from the lemon juice can start to 'cook' the fish if left for more than an hour.

Perfect Pairings and Storage Tips

Oven Roasted Salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a light salad with a citrus vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or quinoa for a complete meal. If you're feeling adventurous, a side of garlic mashed potatoes is a comforting choice. The textures contrast wonderfully—the crisp skin of the salmon complements softer or crunchy accompaniments.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Gently reheat the salmon in the oven at 275°F (135°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave to prevent the salmon from drying out. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked salmon. Just ensure it's wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a baking sheet in the oven to heat.

Season the Salmon

In a bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Coat the salmon fillets with this mixture.

Bake the Salmon

Once the oven and baking sheet are preheated, carefully place the salmon fillets on the hot baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Serve

Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides.

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavors further, consider marinating the salmon for up to 30 minutes before roasting. You can also try different herbs such as rosemary or thyme based on your preference.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your salmon is overcooked, it may be due to a higher oven temperature or excessive cooking time. An ideal texture should flake easily but remain moist. In the future, consider checking the salmon a few minutes earlier than the suggested cooking time. Investing in an instant-read thermometer can also help you achieve perfect results by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

On the other hand, if you encounter raw spots in your salmon fillets, it may indicate uneven thickness in the cuts. To avoid this, select salmon that is uniformly thick, or when preparing, try to choose fillets of similar size. If you do face this issue, simply return the fillets to the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes while keeping an eye on them.

Scaling the Recipe

One of the great things about Oven Roasted Salmon is how easily it can be scaled. If you're cooking for a crowd, you can increase the number of fillets while keeping the marinade ratios the same. Just make sure to use a larger baking sheet or two sheets to avoid overcrowding, which can affect the cooking time and lead to uneven results.

If you're unsure of the cooking time when scaling, a good rule of thumb is to add a minute per additional fillet while keeping a close eye on the salmon. Aim to have them spaced evenly on the baking sheet for optimal heat circulation. Cooking in batches can also help maintain quality if you have a lot to prepare.

Delicious Variations

Feel free to experiment with different flavor profiles by adding various herbs and spices to the marinade. Try using fresh thyme or oregano instead of dill for an entirely different taste. For a spicy kick, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce in the mix.

Another variation is to add a crust to the salmon by sprinkling it with panko breadcrumbs right before baking. This adds a delightful crunch, pairing beautifully with the tender fish. You can even mix the breadcrumbs with some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Just watch the salmon closely, as the extra layer may brown faster than the fish cooks.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

→ What sides pair well with roasted salmon?

Roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh green salad are great choices.

→ How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

While salmon is best served fresh, you can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to use.