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Easy lemon dill baked salmon garnished with fresh herbs and lemon slices

Easy Lemon Dill Baked Salmon

This oven-baked salmon is prepared with olive oil, fresh lemon, and chopped dill, delivering flaky fillets in under thirty minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces Salmon fillets Preferably skin-on, 6 ounces each; use wild or farmed based on budget
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil Extra virgin adds flavor; can substitute avocado oil for higher smoke point
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice About one small lemon; bottled lemon juice is acceptable in a pinch
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon zest Use fine zest for even distribution; substitute 1/2 teaspoon dried lemon peel if needed
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh dill, chopped Flat-leaf dill preferred; parsley or tarragon works as an herb alternative
  • To taste Salt and pepper Use kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for best results

Method
 

Preheat and Prep
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Make the Lemon Dill Mixture
  1. Mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped dill, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
  2. Whisk until the oil emulsifies slightly and the herbs distribute evenly throughout the mixture.
Assemble and Bake
  1. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet with the skin side down when applicable.
  2. Brush the lemon dill mixture evenly over the salmon fillets, coating tops and sides lightly.
  3. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  4. Rest the salmon for two minutes before serving to let juices redistribute and flavors settle.

Notes

Pat the salmon dry before seasoning to help the lemon dill mixture adhere. Allow the salmon to come to room temperature for ten minutes before cooking. Reserve a small amount of the lemon dill mixture to drizzle over the cooked fillets for a fresh finish.