Zesty Herb-Crusted Baked Salmon

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 15 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Looking for a simple yet flavorful dish that feels like a gourmet experience? This Zesty Herb-Crusted Baked Salmon is your answer. With a blend of fresh herbs and a hint of citrus, this recipe elevates your weeknight dinner to something special without any fuss.

Ingredients for Zesty Herb-Crusted Baked Salmon

Salmon fillets provide a rich, buttery base that soaks up the flavors beautifully. Parsley adds a fresh, slightly peppery taste, while dill brings an aromatic, almost sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with fish. Cilantro introduces a citrusy note that brightens the dish. Garlic gives a savory depth, complementing the herbs. Lemon zest and juice add a zesty freshness that cuts through the richness of the salmon. Olive oil binds the herbs and helps them stick to the fish. Salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes provide just the right amount of seasoning and heat.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a crispier herb crust, broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes — keep a close eye to prevent burning.
  • Use a zester for the lemon to ensure you only get the outer zest, avoiding the bitter white pith.
  • If fresh herbs aren't available, substitute with dried herbs but use sparingly as they're more concentrated.
  • Pat the salmon dry thoroughly for a better herb crust adherence.

Serving Suggestions

This salmon pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a light salad. Consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or alongside garlic mashed potatoes for a more filling meal. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just make sure it's fully thawed and patted dry before using.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
When it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout, it's ready.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the herb mixture a few hours in advance.

Zesty Herb-Crusted Baked Salmon Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). This temperature is perfect for cooking the salmon through while keeping it moist and tender. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped parsley, dill, cilantro, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. This mixture will be your flavorful herb crust.

Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial for helping the herb mixture stick to the fish. Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin side down if they have skin.

Spoon the herb mixture generously over each fillet, pressing it down gently with your fingers to adhere. You want a good coating to maximize flavor.

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The salmon should flake easily with a fork when it's done. Avoid overcooking to keep the salmon juicy.

Once baked, serve the salmon warm with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus if desired.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy — ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Uses fresh, vibrant herbs for maximum flavor.
  • Perfectly balanced with a kick of spice.
  • Minimal cleanup with a one-pan bake.
  • Healthy and satisfying — great for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 cup fresh dill, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Lemon wedges for serving

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine parsley, dill, cilantro, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
3. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Generously coat the top of each salmon fillet with the herb mixture, pressing it down to adhere.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
6. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side.

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