This Lemon Pepper Salmon is a healthy, easy-to-make dish that will leave everyone satisfied.
For years, salmon has been a household favorite of mine. It is simple to make and provides a lot of protein in one meal. It goes well with many sides, I personally love mine with rice and asparagus, but any veggie makes for a nice pair. This meal is also great if you or someone in your family has a strict diet. It is a delicious meal for someone following a keto or paleo diet or for someone gluten and dairy free.
If you are a beginner don’t worry, this meal is foolproof. It only takes about 20 minutes, making it perfect for those lazy nights when cooking feels like too much of a chore. It is healthy, but not boring at all! Take it from someone who doesn’t like fish that tastes too “fishy”, this meal really packs a punch. It delivers mouthwatering flavours with minimal ingredients. This Lemon Pepper Salmon has a zesty, citrusy taste. It might surprise you how flavourful it is. It’s bright and buttery with a bold, peppery flavour. You will love this if you are looking for an easy weeknight meal but still wanting a healthy and tasty option. Salmon is easy to cook in the oven allowing a hands-off approach, but if you are up to the challenge try pan-frying yours.
Seasoning Your Salmon Makes All the Difference
Because this recipe is so simple, it is important to make sure you have the ingredients that will really bring out the flavours. Make sure your spice rack is stocked and ready to go. When sticking to this recipe all you need is lemon juice and lemon pepper seasoning. This keeps the cook time short and straightforward.
However, if you do not have lemon pepper seasoning available don’t worry, you can make your own! You may have all that you need right in your pantry. Lemon pepper seasoning is a blend of salt and pepper, lemon zest, plus garlic and onion powder. These are some staple spices in my spice rack, and I bet you have them too! Make your own seasoning and your salmon will pop.
Ingredients
- 1 lb salmon with skin
- 1/2 lemon, for juice only
- 2 Tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
How to Make Lemon Pepper Salmon
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F. This is the perfect temperature for cooking salmon.
Step 2: Lay the salmon skin-side down in a baking dish. Drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the top, then sprinkle the lemon pepper seasoning evenly.
Step 3: Pop the salmon in the oven and let it bake for 12 to 16 minutes. You’re looking for a flaky texture when cooked just right. The scientific minded cooks can also use a food thermometer, you are aiming for 145°F.
FAQs & Tips
Marinate your salmon in the lemon juice and seasoning for 15-30 minutes before cooking (or for several hours in the fridge). It can be stored in the fridge for a few days or in the freezer for up to a month.
Yes! Season on both sides, then let it rest in the lemon marinate.
Add butter or olive oil (or both) to the pan. (Butter makes everything better!)
You can use frozen or fresh salmon. If frozen, make sure it is “fully defrosted”. If fresh, try “skin-on” because it holds better during cooking.
For the best flavour, use fresh lemon juice over bottled. You can also use the fresh lemons to zest your salmon.
Serving Suggestions
As mentioned, I am a sucker for salmon with asparagus, but don’t let that limit your sides. Salmon pairs well with any greens or vegetables. A fresh arugula salad is a perfect pair to your salmon.
If you are wanting something a little more comforting on the side try garlic mashed potatoes or diced potatoes (or really any potatoes for that matter). If you still can’t decide, try exploring more of the yummy side dishes on BB and I guarantee you will find the perfect match for you Lemon Pepper Salmon.
Lemon Pepper Salmon
Ingredients
- 1 lb salmon with skin
- 1/2 lemon for juice only
- 2 Tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. This is the perfect temperature for cooking salmon.
- Lay the salmon skin-side down in a baking dish. Drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the top, then sprinkle the lemon pepper seasoning evenly.
- Pop the salmon in the oven and let it bake for 12 to 16 minutes. You’re looking for a flaky texture when cooked just right. The scientific minded cooks can also use a food thermometer, you are aiming for 145°F.
Nutrition
