Lemon Pepper Salmon

The perfect balance of citrus and spice, this Lemon Pepper Salmon is a quick and flavorful dish that works for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The bright lemon zest and juice enhance the natural richness of the salmon, while cracked black pepper and a mix of pantry spices give each bite a bold kick.

Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make, just mix the marinade, brush it over the salmon, and bake! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and packed with heart-healthy omega-3s. Pair it with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a light salad for a well-rounded and wholesome meal that looks and tastes like it came from a fine restaurant.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 1 large lemon)

• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

• Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt.

3. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Spoon the lemon pepper mixture over the salmon fillets, coating each piece thoroughly.

5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

6. Optional: Broil for the last 2 minutes for a lightly crisp top.

7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Kcal: 295 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Zesty Baked Lemon Pepper Salmon with Garlic and Herbs

Salmon is often considered one of the healthiest proteins you can add to your plate, and for good reason. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals, this powerhouse fish is not only good for your heart but also beneficial for your brain, skin, and joints. Among the many ways to enjoy this versatile fish, Lemon Pepper Salmon stands out for its simplicity, bold flavor, and impressive results. With the perfect balance of tangy citrus and savory spice, this baked salmon recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, elegant dinners, or meal prepping for the week ahead.

This recipe takes inspiration from traditional lemon pepper seasoning but upgrades it using fresh lemon zest and juice for a brighter, more authentic taste. Combined with a blend of garlic, onion powder, and paprika, the marinade enhances the fish without overpowering its natural flavor. The result is a flaky, moist salmon fillet with golden edges and a flavor that sings with every bite. It’s fast, fuss-free, and guaranteed to impress.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Fresh Lemon Zest and Juice:
Bottled lemon juice has its place, but for this dish, fresh is best. The zest brings aromatic citrus oils that infuse the fish during baking, while the juice helps tenderize and add tang. Together, they elevate the dish far beyond a typical seasoning blend.

2. Pantry-Friendly Ingredients:
Aside from the salmon and fresh lemon, everything else is likely already in your kitchen, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This means you can throw this dish together without a special grocery trip.

3. Quick and Easy Cooking:
With only 10 minutes of prep time and 12-15 minutes of baking, this recipe is a go-to for those short on time but unwilling to sacrifice quality or flavor. It’s also a great choice for novice cooks who want a foolproof yet impressive main course.

4. Adaptable for Diets and Preferences:
This lemon pepper salmon is naturally gluten-free and low-carb, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs. It’s also keto-friendly and pairs beautifully with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed cauliflower, brown rice, or couscous.

Nutritional Benefits of Salmon

One of the biggest advantages of incorporating salmon into your meals is its incredible nutritional profile. Wild-caught or sustainably farmed, salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, which have been linked to reduced inflammation, better heart health, improved brain function, and even enhanced mood regulation.

It also contains:

• Protein: High-quality protein that helps build and repair tissues

• Vitamin D: A vital nutrient for bone health and immunity

• B Vitamins: Including B12 and niacin, which support metabolism and energy production

• Selenium: An antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage

• Potassium: Important for blood pressure control and heart function

Eating salmon just twice a week can significantly contribute to a well-balanced, heart-healthy diet.

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Salmon

Choose the Right Cut:
Opt for center-cut fillets for even thickness and consistent cooking. You can choose skin-on for extra flavor and moisture retention, or skinless if you prefer easy serving.

Do Not Overcook:
The key to moist, tender salmon is not overcooking. Remove the fillets from the oven once they reach an internal temperature of 135°F (carryover heat will take it to 145°F). They should flake easily with a fork but remain juicy and slightly translucent in the center.

Let It Rest:
Just like steak or chicken, letting the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, leading to better flavor and texture.

Add Fresh Herbs After Baking:
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or dill after baking for a burst of freshness and color. Adding herbs before baking may cause them to wilt or brown unattractively.

Delicious Side Pairings

Lemon Pepper Salmon is deliciously versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some excellent options:

• Roasted Asparagus or Green Beans – lightly seasoned with olive oil and garlic

• Garlic Mashed Cauliflower – a low-carb, creamy alternative to potatoes

• Quinoa or Couscous – both soak up the lemony juices from the salmon beautifully

• Herbed Rice Pilaf – for a more filling, comforting meal

• Citrus Salad – with arugula, grapefruit, and a light vinaigrette to complement the salmon

Make It a Meal Prep Staple

This dish is also perfect for meal prepping. Simply bake a batch of fillets, let them cool, and store them in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the fridge. They’re great cold on salads, or gently reheated for a quick lunch or dinner. The lemon-pepper flavor holds up well, and the salmon stays moist if not overcooked initially.

Add Your Own Twist

Want to experiment? Here are a few ideas:

• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the lemon pepper mix.

• Go Mediterranean: Add a spoonful of chopped olives, capers, and cherry tomatoes on top before baking.

• Use Compound Butter: Swap out olive oil for a lemon-garlic compound butter for an extra rich version.

• Try Foil Packets: For no-mess cleanup and a steaming effect, bake the salmon in foil with lemon slices and veggies.

Sustainability Matters

When buying salmon, choose sustainably sourced options when possible. Look for labels like “Wild Alaskan” or certifications from organizations like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). These choices help support healthy fish populations and responsible fishing practices.

Serving Suggestions for Entertaining

If you’re planning a dinner party or festive meal, this dish makes a beautiful centerpiece. Present each fillet over a bed of herbed couscous, drizzled with additional lemon juice and garnished with microgreens or edible flowers for a touch of elegance.

Pair with a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay to enhance the citrus notes in the salmon. A sparkling water with lemon slices also makes for a refreshing, non-alcoholic pairing.

Conclusion

Lemon Pepper Salmon is the epitome of what a healthy, delicious, and easy dinner should be. From its bright citrus flavor to its bold peppery finish, every bite feels nourishing and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting guests, or prepping meals for the week, this salmon recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal time and effort.

Not only is it good for you, but it also tastes amazing and adapts well to your personal preferences. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can bring a zesty, protein-packed meal to your table that everyone will love.

So next time you’re wondering what to make for dinner, make it lemon pepper salmon. Your taste buds (and your body) will thank you.