This Lemon Baked Salmon Recipe is a bright, elegant, and delightfully simple entrée perfect for Christmas dinner. Whether you're hosting a cozy family gathering or looking for a lighter main dish alongside traditional holiday favorites, this salmon delivers tender, flaky texture with fresh citrus flavor in every bite. The blend of lemon, garlic, herbs, and buttery richness makes it feel festive without requiring hours in the kitchen—a true win during the busy holiday season.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
- Total Time: 25–30 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Yield: 1 whole salmon fillet (about 2 pounds)
Ingredients
- 1 whole salmon fillet (about 2 to 2.5 pounds), skin on
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or olive oil for a lighter option)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried dill or 2 tablespoons fresh chopped dill
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or thyme (optional)
- 1–2 lemons, thinly sliced
- Optional holiday add-ins:
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
- Honey (1–2 teaspoons) for added sweetness
- Pomegranate seeds or cranberries for a festive presentation
Directions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment for easy cleanup. - Prepare the Salmon
Place the salmon skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Pat dry with paper towels—this helps the seasonings stick and promotes even cooking. - Make the Lemon Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and dill.
Tip: For a holiday twist, whisk in 1–2 teaspoons of honey for extra caramelization and color. - Season the Fillet
Pour or brush the lemon butter mixture evenly over the salmon. Arrange thin lemon slices on top.
Holiday flair: Tuck rosemary sprigs or fresh thyme around the edges for aroma and presentation. - Bake the Salmon
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 125–130°F (for medium).
Warning: Avoid overbaking—salmon continues to cook slightly after being removed from the oven. - Optional Broil Step
For a lightly golden top, broil for 1–2 minutes—watch carefully to prevent burning. - Rest & Serve
Let the salmon rest for 3–5 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs, pomegranate seeds, or lemon slices for a festive Christmas touch.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) — Estimated values
- Calories: 305
- Protein: 32g
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 360mg
(Values vary based on salmon thickness, butter vs. olive oil, and optional add-ins.)
Conclusion
This Lemon Baked Salmon Recipe is a wonderful addition to any Christmas menu—fresh, flavorful, and beautifully simple to prepare. The bright citrus and herb blend pairs effortlessly with both traditional and modern holiday side dishes, making it a versatile centerpiece for your festive table. Whether you're preparing a holiday meal for two or serving a larger gathering, this recipe offers an elegant, no-stress option that’s sure to impress your guests. Enjoy the delicate flavors and holiday warmth this dish brings to your celebration!
