Lemon Garlic Baked Salmon – Easy & Healthy Dinner

If you love quick, easy, and healthy meals, this Lemon Garlic Baked Salmon is about to become a favourite! It’s juicy, flaky, and packed with flavour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a special occasion.

In South Africa, grilled seafood is a go-to for summer braais, but when you want that same smoky, charred flavour without the fire, this oven-baked version delivers! A zesty garlic lemon marinade keeps the salmon moist and flavourful, while the grill function crisps up the edges beautifully.

Pair it with roasted broccoli and crispy chips for an easy, nutritious meal. And don’t forget the homemade lemon garlic butter sauce—it takes this dish to the next level!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• ✔️ Quick & Effortless – Ready in 30 minutes with minimal prep.
• ✔️ Packed with Omega-3s – A healthy, high-protein meal.
• ✔️ Flavour Explosion – The lemony, garlicky marinade + buttery sauce = magic!
• ✔️ Customisable – Works with different sides, spices & toppings.
• ✔️ Meal-Prep Friendly – Make extra salmon for easy lunches!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Broccoli

For Fresh Broccoli:

• Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
• Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt & pepper.
• Roast for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway until slightly crispy.

For Frozen Broccoli:

• Spread frozen broccoli on a lined baking tray.
• Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 10-15 minutes until softened.

💡 Pro Tip: Roasting broccoli enhances its flavour and gives it a delicious crispy edge!

Step 2: Prep the Salmon Marinade

• In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, and chilli flakes.
• Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
• Toss the salmon in the marinade until well coated.

💡 Pro Tip: Let the salmon marinate for 5-10 minutes while the oven preheats to allow the flavours to soak in!

Step 3: Bake the Salmon

• Preheat the oven on Grill/Broil mode at 220°C (430°F).
• Line a large baking tray with foil and place the salmon fillets skin-side down.
• Top each fillet with a slice of lemon.
• Grill for 10-12 minutes, until the salmon is golden, flaky, and slightly charred.

💡 Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, switch to fan-assisted mode for the last 2 minutes!

Step 4: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce

• In a pan, melt butter over low heat.
• Add olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chilli flakes.
• Simmer for 1-2 minutes, then stir in chopped parsley.

💡 Pro Tip: This rich, buttery sauce is perfect for drizzling over salmon & chips!

Serving Suggestions

• With Fluffy Basmati Rice – Absorbs the lemon garlic sauce beautifully!
• With a Crisp Green Salad – A light, fresh side dish option.
• With Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and comforting!
• With Roasted Vegetables – Butternut, sweetcorn, or peppers.

FAQs & Pro Tips

Q: Can I use frozen salmon?

A: Yes! Defrost it overnight in the fridge or in cold water for 30 minutes before cooking.

Q: How do I know when salmon is done?

A: Perfectly cooked salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temp of 63°C (145°F).

Q: Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?

A: Yes! Air-fry the salmon at 200°C for 10 minutes for crispy edges.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Garlic Baked Salmon is a flavour-packed, healthy meal that’s quick and easy to make! With its zesty, garlicky taste, flaky texture, and buttery sauce, it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Have you tried this recipe? What’s your favourite way to serve salmon? Let me know in the comments!

More Recipes for you to try

Fish with a Creamy Dill Sauce - click here for the recipe

Chicken Souvlaki Skewers - click here for the recipe