Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Marinated Salmon with Garlic and Herbs is a simple yet elegant dish bursting with fresh flavor. The marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and fragrant herbs infuses the salmon with brightness and depth, making it tender, juicy, and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a special gathering. It’s quick to prepare and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.

ingredients

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

salmon fillets
olive oil
fresh lemon juice
garlic cloves
fresh parsley
fresh dill
salt
black pepper
lemon zest

directions

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or resealable bag.

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

Pour the marinade over the salmon, making sure it’s evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours.

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

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

Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Let rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
Total time: 55-85 minutes

Variations

Use thyme or basil in place of dill for a different herb profile.
Add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the marinade for a subtle sweetness.
Swap lemon for orange juice for a citrus twist.
Top the cooked salmon with capers or a yogurt dill sauce for added flavor.

storage/reheating

Store cooked salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.
Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain moistness.
Marinated uncooked salmon should not be stored more than 2 days before cooking.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before marinating.

Can I bake the salmon in foil?

Absolutely, it helps retain moisture and makes cleanup easier.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

You can use dried herbs—use about one-third the amount as fresh.

Can I marinate it overnight?

Yes, but don’t exceed 12 hours to avoid the acid breaking down the fish too much.

What sides go well with this?

Steamed vegetables, rice, quinoa, or roasted potatoes pair well.

Can I grill it instead of baking?

Yes, grilling adds a nice char and smoky flavor.

How do I know when it’s done?

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

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use skin-on salmon?

Yes, and it helps retain moisture during cooking.

Should I remove the marinade before cooking?

Yes, remove excess marinade to prevent burning, but don’t rinse off the flavor.

Conclusion

Marinated Salmon with Garlic and Herbs is a delicious, healthful, and elegant dish that’s easy to prepare and full of bright, fresh flavor. Whether baked, grilled, or pan-seared, this versatile salmon recipe is sure to impress. Perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions, it’s a reliable favorite that brings simplicity and taste together beautifully.