Lemon salmon is a bright and flavorful dish that combines tender, flaky salmon with the tangy freshness of lemon. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a burst of citrusy goodness with every bite. Seasoned with simple spices and cooked to perfection, it pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, rice, or a crisp side salad.
Why Lemon and Salmon Make the Perfect Pair
Lemon and salmon are a match made in culinary heaven. The acidity of lemon balances out the richness of salmon, and the zest adds a bright flavor that cuts through the fatty texture of the fish. Adding lemon to your salmon not only elevates the flavor but also enhances its tender, flaky texture.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Lemon Salmon
Pat Dry for Crispy Skin: Patting the salmon fillets dry before cooking is essential for a crispy skin. Any moisture can prevent the skin from searing properly.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give each fillet space so they cook evenly. Overcrowding traps steam, which can make the skin soggy.
Sear at High Heat, Finish at Low Heat: This two-step method ensures a crispy exterior without overcooking the fish.
Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and slices provide a much more vibrant flavor than bottled lemon juice.
Adjust Cooking Time Based on Thickness: If your salmon is particularly thick, it may need a couple more minutes in the pan.
Variations on Lemon Salmon
Looking to add some twists to this classic recipe? Here are some delicious ideas:
- Herbed Lemon Salmon: Add rosemary, thyme, or dill for an aromatic twist.
- Honey Lemon Salmon: A drizzle of honey adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the lemon’s acidity.
- Baked Lemon Salmon: If you prefer baking, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Spicy Lemon Salmon: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the seasoning for a kick of heat.
How to Serve Lemon Salmon
Lemon Salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it:
- On a bed of greens: Serve the salmon on arugula or spinach with a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette.
- With rice or quinoa: A neutral grain complements the salmon without overpowering its flavor.
- Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts roasted with a hint of garlic and olive oil make an excellent pairing.
- Pasta with a light sauce: Serve with angel hair pasta tossed in a light lemon butter sauce for a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home.
How to Store and Reheat Lemon Salmon
Proper storage and reheating ensure that your lemon salmon tastes just as good the next day.
- To Store: Let the salmon cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To Reheat: For the best results, reheat in a 275°F (135°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish rubbery.
- To Freeze: You can freeze lemon salmon by placing it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Pat it dry to remove any excess moisture, which helps with searing.
Can I use lime instead of lemon?
Yes, lime can be used for a slightly different but equally refreshing flavor. You may find the lime flavor slightly more intense, so consider using a bit less.
What’s the best way to tell if salmon is done?
The most reliable way is to use a food thermometer to ensure the salmon has reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Alternatively, you can check if it flakes easily with a fork.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Simply use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version of lemon salmon.
Do I have to remove the skin?
Not at all! The skin adds flavor and can help keep the fillet moist during cooking. Plus, crispy salmon skin is delicious.
Lemon Salmon
Lemon salmon is a bright and flavorful dish that combines tender, flaky salmon with the tangy freshness of lemon.
Ingredients
- 1 pound salmon, skin-on
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons honey (or pure maple syrup)
- 1 teaspoon grainy Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (or 3 cloves garlic, minced)
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, and lightly grease it with olive oil or nonstick spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Place the salmon skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Generously brush the marinade over the fillet, coating it well.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. It’s typically perfect at around 16-18 minutes.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 360Total Fat 20gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 87mgSodium 260mgCarbohydrates 20gFiber 1gSugar 17gProtein 26g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Lemon Salmon is a classic recipe that’s simple, healthy, and bursting with flavor. Its bright, tangy notes make it perfect for any season, and it’s flexible enough to pair with a wide variety of sides and garnishes. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see why lemon and salmon are a timeless duo in the kitchen.
Check my other salmon recipes:
