Flavorful Baked Lemon Pepper Salmon Recipe You’ll Love

Baked Lemon Pepper Salmon is like a party in your mouth, where the tangy zest of lemon and the bold kick of pepper tango ceaselessly. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that fills your kitchen with an aroma that could make even the most indifferent of housemates stop scrolling through their phones and take notice. With flaky, tender salmon fillets glistening under a golden crust, this recipe guarantees a flavor explosion that will have you dreaming about dinner long before it’s time to eat.

The first time I tried my hand at this Baked Lemon Pepper Salmon Recipe, I was convinced I’d accidentally summoned the culinary gods. It was a rainy Sunday afternoon, and as I flipped through my well-loved cookbook, the vibrant images of citrusy fish caught my eye. Little did I know that my family would rave about it for days, claiming it was life-changing (and let’s be honest, it was). Perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests at a dinner party, this recipe promises a delightful culinary journey.

I remember one particular evening when my friend Kelly took one bite and exclaimed she felt transported to a seaside café in Italy—definitely not what you’d expect from a simple salmon dish!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Salmon Fillets: Fresh or thawed fillets work best; look for firm pieces with vibrant color.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness; bottled juice can’t compare in flavor.

• Lemon Zest: Grate the zest of one lemon for an extra citrus punch; avoid the bitter white pith.

• Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper enhances flavor; go wild with it for that peppery bite.

• Garlic Powder: This gives a lovely depth without the hassle of peeling fresh garlic.

• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling; it elevates the overall taste.

• Salt: A pinch of salt brings out all those beautiful flavors and balances everything perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Baked Lemon Pepper Salmon Recipe

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking dish and lightly coat it with nonstick spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.

Prepare Your Salmon Fillets: Rinse your salmon fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Lay them skin-side down in the prepared baking dish.

Create the Flavor Mixture: In a small bowl, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and plenty of freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until well mixed and fragrant.

Season Your Salmon Generously: Spoon the zesty mixture over each salmon fillet evenly; don’t hold back! Let those flavors soak in while preparing the oven.

Bake to Perfection: Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and has turned opaque.

Garnish and Serve Warm: Once out of the oven, let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional lemon slices if desired—because who doesn’t love that Instagram-worthy touch?

With these steps completed, you’re ready to dig into your beautifully baked lemon pepper salmon! Enjoy every tender bite bursting with citrus goodness as you bask in culinary triumph.

This Baked Lemon Pepper Salmon Recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen—a flavorful dish perfect for any occasion that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned salmon on a lined baking sheet, then bake for 12-15 minutes until flaky. This sequence ensures even cooking while keeping the fish tender.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra flavor kick. You can also add a dash of garlic or sprinkle some feta cheese on top before baking for a Mediterranean twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain its moisture.

Cooking this Baked Lemon Pepper Salmon Recipe reminds me of family gatherings where everyone fought over the last piece; it always brought smiles and full bellies!

FAQ

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before seasoning and baking.

What side dishes pair well with lemon pepper salmon?

Roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, or garlic mashed potatoes complement this dish beautifully.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Baked Lemon Pepper Salmon

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Baked Lemon Pepper Salmon is a delightful dish that elevates your dinner experience with its vibrant flavors and enticing aroma. This quick and easy recipe features tender, flaky salmon fillets seasoned with zesty lemon juice, fragrant lemon zest, and freshly ground black pepper. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish guarantees a flavorful explosion in every bite.

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Ingredients

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• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tbsp lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
• 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• ½ tsp salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray or olive oil.
2. Rinse salmon fillets under cold water and pat dry. Place skin-side down in the baking dish.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Spoon the mixture evenly over the salmon fillets, ensuring each piece is coated.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is opaque.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional lemon slices if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g)
• Calories: 367
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 39g
• Cholesterol: 105mg