Oven Roasted Salmon

Name: Oven Roasted Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 lemon, sliced; Fresh dill for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Wholesome Treats

I absolutely love making Oven Roasted Salmon for a quick weeknight dinner. The simplicity of preparing salmon fillets with just a few key ingredients allows the fresh flavors to shine through. I often serve it with seasonal vegetables, which adds color and crunch to the dish. It's not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying, making it a go-to in my kitchen. Just a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and a few herbs elevate the salmon into something special that everyone enjoys.

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-20T03:22:13.629Z

When I first tried roasting salmon in the oven, I was amazed at how easy it was to achieve a perfectly cooked piece of fish. The key is to not overcook it; a quick 15 minutes at a high temperature locks in the moisture, giving you a melt-in-your-mouth texture. I also love experimenting with different herbs and spices, but my go-to is a simple mix of lemon and dill.

What really stood out for me was pairing the salmon with asparagus. Roasting them together not only saves time but also allows the flavors to mingle beautifully. I often add a squeeze of fresh lemon before serving to brighten up the dish, making it feel both fresh and elegant.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation that fits into any weeknight schedule
Flaky and tender salmon packed with omega-3 fatty acids
Customizable with your favorite herbs and spices for unique flavor

Perfecting the Salmon

Choosing the right salmon is crucial for this dish. Look for fresh, wild-caught salmon if possible, as it tends to be more flavorful and has a firmer texture compared to farmed varieties. If you're opting for frozen salmon, ensure it's completely thawed and pat it dry before cooking; excess moisture can lead to steaming rather than roasting, which affects that desirable flaky texture.

Another technique to enhance the dish is to let the salmon come to room temperature before cooking. Allowing the fillets to sit out for about 15-20 minutes can help achieve even cooking throughout. If your fillets are thicker, you may need to increase the baking time slightly—just keep an eye on them until they start to look opaque and begin to flake easily with a fork.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing the roasted salmon with seasonal vegetables can elevate the meal to a new level. Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or a bright medley of bell peppers and zucchini sautéed in olive oil are excellent choices. Just toss them in olive oil, season lightly with salt and pepper, and roast in the same oven at 400°F; they’ll be perfectly done in the same timeframe as the salmon, approximately 15 minutes.

For a refreshing twist, consider serving the salmon with a citrus salsa. A simple combination of diced oranges, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a splash of lime juice can add a burst of flavor that complements the rich salmon beautifully. This not only adds a colorful contrast but also enhances the overall nutritional profile of the meal.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 lemon, sliced
Fresh dill for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Add Lemon

Top each fillet with a slice of lemon.

Roast the Salmon

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh dill if desired, and serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the salmon in lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to customize the seasoning on your salmon fillets. Instead of just salt and black pepper, experiment with different herbs like thyme or parsley, or even add a pinch of paprika for a subtle smoky flavor. If you enjoy a little heat, try adding red pepper flakes to the olive oil before drizzling it over the fish.

If you're looking for a low-sodium option, consider using a herb-infused olive oil to give extra flavor without the extra salt. Homemade herb oil can be prepared by blending olive oil with fresh herbs and then drizzling it over the salmon before roasting.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover salmon can be safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, avoid the microwave as it can dry out the fish. Instead, place the salmon in a baking dish and cover it lightly with aluminum foil. Heat it in a 275°F (135°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, which helps maintain moisture and texture.

If you're meal prepping, consider making an extra batch of the salmon to have ready for lunch the next day. Cold, leftover salmon makes a delicious addition to salads or sandwiches. Just crumble it atop some mixed greens with a drizzle of vinaigrette for a quick and nutritious meal.

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 salad are great options.

→ 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 cook this on a grill instead?

Absolutely! Just make sure to use a grill basket to prevent sticking.