# Simple Lemon Herb Baked Salmon
## A Quick and Delicious Dinner
Craving a healthy and flavorful meal that’s ready in no time? This Simple Lemon Herb Baked Salmon is your answer. It’s incredibly easy to make, bursting with fresh flavors, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch. Plus, it’s packed with goodness that your body will thank you for.
## Health Benefits
Salmon is a nutritional powerhouse, offering a range of health benefits. It’s loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your heart and brain health. These healthy fats can help reduce inflammation throughout your body. Salmon is also a fantastic source of high-quality protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, and maintaining muscle mass. Additionally, it provides important vitamins like B12 and D, as well as minerals like selenium, all of which contribute to overall well-being.
## Ingredients Needed
* 1.5 lbs salmon fillet (about 4 six-ounce fillets)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus 1 teaspoon for the herb mixture
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* Zest of 1 lemon
* 1/2 lemon, thinly sliced
* 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh minced parsley
* 1 tablespoon fresh dill weed
* Salt to taste
* Black pepper to taste
## Step By Step Making
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Take the salmon out of its packaging and pat it dry with a paper towel.
3. Rub each fillet with about half a tablespoon of olive oil.
4. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon zest, 1 teaspoon of olive oil, fresh parsley, and fresh dill. Mix this herb and lemon mixture well.
5. Evenly coat the top and sides of each salmon fillet with the herb and lemon mixture.
6. Season each fillet with salt and black pepper to your liking.
7. Place the seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Top each fillet with a thin slice of lemon.
8. Bake for 18-22 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The salmon is cooked when it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork. For a more precise check, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
9. Let the salmon rest on the pan for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. Serve warm.
## Nutritional Value
A 6-ounce serving of salmon (based on raw wild-caught salmon) provides approximately:
* Calories: Around 200-250 (this can vary slightly based on type and cooking method)
* Protein: About 35-40 grams
* Carbohydrates: 0 grams
* Fat: Around 10-15 grams (mostly healthy fats)