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A simple healthy garlic salmon fillet, perfectly cooked.

Classic Simple Healthy Garlic Salmon

This recipe provides a simple yet flavorful way to prepare garlic salmon using either pan-searing or baking methods, ensuring a healthy and delicious meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 fillets
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 lbs salmon fillets 4-6 oz each, skin on or off, wild-caught preferred
  • 6-8 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon dried herbs blend of dill, parsley, or oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional Garnish
  • Fresh parsley or dill
  • lemon wedges

Equipment

  • Paper towels
  • Small bowl
  • Plate or baking sheet
  • Large oven-safe skillet (cast iron preferred)
  • Oven
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Combine minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and dried herbs in a small bowl.
  3. Spoon or brush the garlic mixture over the salmon fillets; marinate for 5-10 minutes.
Cooking
  1. For pan-searing, heat an oven-safe skillet with olive oil, sear salmon skin-side down for 4-5 minutes until crispy, then flip and cook for another 3-5 minutes until done.
  2. For baking, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), place salmon on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 12-18 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Serving
  1. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, then serve immediately.

Notes

Pan-searing is the preferred method for crispy skin, but baking is also a great option. Ensure salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for food safety.