1-First Step: Get the oven and pan ready Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the sweet spot for baking salmon because it cooks the fish quickly without drying it out. While the oven heats, grease a large baking pan so the fillets do not stick. If you want even easier cleanup, line the pan with parchment paper first and then lightly grease it. Before you move on, check your salmon fillets. Fresh, vibrant fillets should look moist and clean, not dull or discolored. They should also have a fresh smell, not a strong fishy odor. If the fish is frozen, thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best texture. This simple prep step helps your baked salmon recipe turn out tender instead of tough.

2-Second Step: Place the salmon on the baking sheet Arrange the 4 salmon fillets, about 6 ounces each, on the prepared baking sheet. Give them a little space so the heat can move around each piece. If the salmon has skin, leave it on. The skin helps lock in moisture and gives the fish a better chance of staying juicy in the oven. Now season the fillets generously with salt and cracked black pepper. Do not worry if the seasoning looks simple at this stage. The olive oil, garlic, herbs, and lemon will bring everything together in the next step. Keep in mind that salmon does not need a heavy hand, just enough seasoning to wake up its natural flavor.

3-Third Step: Mix the flavor topping In a small bowl, combine the 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 teaspoons minced garlic, 1 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning blend or herbs de Provence, and the juice from half of the lemon. Stir until the mixture looks well combined. This little sauce is what gives the salmon its bright, garlicky finish. Spoon the mixture over the top of each fillet, then gently rub it over the tops and sides. Make sure you cover every part, because dry spots can happen if the seasoning sits only in one place. The goal is a thin, even layer that flavors the fish without drowning it. If you like a stronger lemon taste, you can add a bit more juice from the second half of the lemon later.

4-Fourth Step: Add lemon slices and bake Thinly slice the remaining half of the lemon and place one slice on each fillet. This not only looks nice, it also adds a fresh pop of citrus while the fish bakes. Once the salmon is set up, slide the pan into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. For most 1-inch thick fillets, 12 to 15 minutes is enough time. You want the salmon to turn opaque and flake easily with a fork. If your oven runs hot, check it a little early. If your fillets are thicker, they may need a minute or two more. The best internal temperature in the thickest part is usually between 110 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on how done you like it.

5-Fifth Step: Broil for color if you want it If you like a bit of browning on top, switch the oven to broil during the last 1 to 2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it, because broilers can go from golden to burned very fast. This step is optional, but it gives the salmon a pretty finish and a slightly richer flavor. If your fish seems to be drying out, you can lightly cover it during baking to hold in more moisture. This is especially handy if your fillets are on the thinner side or if you know your oven tends to run strong. A gentle bake is always better than rushing the process.

6-Final Step: Garnish and serve Take the salmon out of the oven and let it rest for a minute or two. Then garnish with fresh thyme or parsley before serving. A short rest helps the juices settle back into the fish, which keeps each bite soft and flavorful. This Baked Salmon Recipe is great with rice, roasted vegetables, salad, potatoes, or even a simple piece of crusty bread. If you want a cozy meal idea for another day, try pairing it with a sweet treat like our homemade strawberry milkshake recipe for a fun family dinner combo.