Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Marinated Salmon with Garlic and Herbs is a flavorful and healthy dish that brings out the natural richness of salmon with a simple yet aromatic marinade. Infused with garlic, fresh herbs, and citrus, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend meal. It’s tender, juicy, and packed with savory depth that will satisfy seafood lovers and health-conscious eaters alike.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

salmon filletsolive oilgarlic (minced)fresh parsleyfresh dillfresh thymelemon juicelemon zestsaltblack pepper

directions

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dill, thyme, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them.

Cover or seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a grill pan over medium-high heat.

Remove salmon from the marinade and place on a baking sheet or grill.

Bake for 12-15 minutes or grill for 4-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Garnish with additional herbs and lemon slices if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesMarinating time: 30-120 minutesCooking time: 12-15 minutesTotal time: 50-135 minutes

Variations

Substitute lime juice for lemon for a slightly different citrus profile.

Add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the marinade for a sweet-savory balance.

Include crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Use rosemary or basil in place of thyme for a different herb profile.

Serve over a bed of greens or with rice for a complete meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently in a microwave or oven at a low temperature to avoid drying it out.Freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before marinating.

Can I cook this on the stovetop?

Absolutely, a grill pan or regular skillet works well.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The flesh should flake easily with a fork and be opaque throughout.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, use about one-third the amount if using dried herbs.

Can I marinate it overnight?

It’s best not to exceed 2 hours to avoid the acids breaking down the fish too much.

Do I have to use lemon zest?

It enhances the citrus flavor, but you can skip it if necessary.

What sides go well with this dish?

Roasted vegetables, quinoa, couscous, or a fresh salad pair beautifully.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and fits well into a keto diet.

What wine pairs well with this?

A crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir complements the flavors.

Can I grill the salmon on an outdoor BBQ?

Yes, just oil the grates well and grill over medium heat.

Conclusion

Marinated Salmon with Garlic and Herbs is a deliciously simple way to enjoy a gourmet-quality meal at home. With its fresh, zesty marinade and flaky, tender texture, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite. Perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions, this dish highlights the natural beauty of salmon with minimal effort and maximum flavor.