Description
A bright and flavorful dish that combines the richness of salmon with the refreshing notes of citrus and fresh herbs. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is simple to prepare yet elegant enough to impress guests.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 orange
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This moderate heat ensures the salmon bakes evenly, staying moist and tender without drying out. - Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in a single layer to allow for even cooking. - Season the Salmon
Drizzle olive oil over the fillets, gently rubbing it in with your fingers or a brush. Sprinkle evenly with sea salt, black pepper, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, and parsley. This creates a flavorful base for the citrus infusion. - Add Citrus Layers
Arrange thin slices of lemon and orange over the salmon. As the fish bakes, these slices release juice and aroma, infusing the fillets with brightness and visual appeal. - Pour Fresh Juice
Squeeze the juice of one lemon and one orange over the fillets. The citrus juice tenderizes the salmon and combines with the herbs to create a natural, flavorful sauce. - Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Check doneness by gently flaking the thickest part with a fork—it should separate easily while remaining moist inside. - Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let the salmon rest for 2–3 minutes. Garnish with extra parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Avoid overbaking; check fillets early to ensure moist, tender results.
- Fresh herbs bring the best flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted (use half the amount).
- Experiment with lime or grapefruit for a fun citrus variation.
- Keeping the skin on helps retain moisture and makes serving easier.
- Wild-caught salmon typically has richer flavor and firmer texture than farmed varieties.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes