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Lemon Salmon Recipe

Tender, flavorful salmon in just 30 minutes! Infused with a buttery garlic-lemon blend, this dish is both simple and restaurant-quality.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Lemon Salmon Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 lemon thinly sliced into rounds
  • ½ cup melted unsalted butter
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons honey
  • 1.5 to 1.75 pounds salmon fillet skin-on
  • 5 garlic cloves finely minced or pressed
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper or to taste
  • 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice about 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
  • 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh parsley optional, for garnish

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F. Arrange the salmon skin-side down on a large sheet of foil placed on a baking sheet, ensuring the longer side of the foil aligns with the length of the pan. Fold up the edges of the foil approximately 2 inches to create a border that will hold the buttery mixture.
  • Position the lemon slices beneath the salmon, distributing them evenly for optimal flavor infusion.
  • In a microwave-safe glass container, heat the butter on high for about 1 minute until fully melted. Stir in the lemon juice, honey, and minced garlic until well combined. Pour about three-quarters of this mixture over the salmon, reserving the remainder for later.
  • Season the salmon evenly with kosher salt and black pepper. Carefully fold and seal the foil over the fish, adding an extra sheet if necessary to create a tight packet. Allow the salmon to marinate for 10–15 minutes if time permits for enhanced flavor.
  • Bake the foil packet on the prepared baking sheet for approximately 17 minutes.
  • Remove the salmon from the oven and carefully open the foil, exposing the fillet while keeping the edges raised to contain the juices. Switch your oven to High broil.
  • Spoon the reserved buttery mixture over the salmon as desired, ensuring the liquid doesn’t overflow. If there’s already sufficient juice in the foil, you can skip this step or save the mixture to drizzle over the cooked salmon when serving.
  • Broil the salmon for 5–10 minutes, monitoring closely to achieve your preferred level of golden color. Keep in mind that broiling time will vary based on the fillet's thickness and your oven.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

  • You can broil the salmon on a lower rack to reduce the risk of burning; it may take a little longer. Always watch closely when broiling.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though this dish is best enjoyed fresh and warm.