Back when I first started eating healthier, salmon felt fancy—like the kind of thing you only order at restaurants. I was afraid I’d mess it up or make the house smell fishy.

But once I tried baking it with just a few fresh ingredients—lemon, garlic, and a sprinkle of dill—I was hooked.

This baked salmon with lemon and dill is light, flaky, and full of bright, herby flavor. It’s ready in under 25 minutes, feels elegant and easy, and pairs with just about anything (roasted veggies, rice, a simple salad). Bonus? It’s packed with protein and omega-3s.

📝 Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 lemon (zested + thinly sliced)

• 1 tbsp fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried)

• ½ tsp sea salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• Optional: extra lemon wedges for serving

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish or sheet pan with parchment paper.

2. Arrange salmon fillets skin-side down in the dish.

3. Drizzle + season: Brush with olive oil, then rub in minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle with lemon zest and dill.

4. Top with lemon slices and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.

5. Serve warm with extra lemon wedges and your favorite side.

💡 Sarah’s Tips

• Don’t overbake! Salmon is done when it flakes gently with a fork and is opaque pink inside.

• Make it a meal: Serve with roasted asparagus, quinoa, or a simple cucumber salad.

• Want crispy edges? Broil the last 2–3 minutes for a golden finish.

• No fresh dill? Dried works too—just use a little less.

🌿 A Healthy Dinner That Feels Fancy (But Isn't)

I love how this meal makes me feel: nourished, light, and put-together—even on a chaotic Wednesday night. It’s simple, clean, and honestly hard to mess up.

If you’ve ever felt intimidated by cooking salmon, give this one a try. It just might become your new weeknight favorite.