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Easy Crispy Baked Lemon Pepper Salmon

easy crispy baked lemon pepper salmon - featured image

A quick and flavorful baked salmon recipe featuring crispy skin, bright lemon, and cracked black pepper, perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skin-on salmon fillets (about 6 oz / 170 g each)
  • 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1 ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp kosher salt or sea salt
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (or dairy-free butter)
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • Fresh herbs (thyme or parsley) for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, garlic powder, and freshly cracked black pepper.
  3. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, olive oil, lemon zest, and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Whisk until blended.
  4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top if available. Place salmon fillets skin-side up on the rack or directly on parchment paper.
  5. Brush the lemon butter mixture generously over the flesh side of the salmon, avoiding the skin.
  6. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 125°F to 130°F (52°C – 54°C).
  7. Optional: Broil on high for 1-2 minutes for extra crispy skin, watching closely to avoid burning.
  8. Remove from oven and let rest for 3 minutes. Squeeze additional fresh lemon juice over the top and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Pat salmon dry before seasoning to ensure crispy skin. Brush lemon butter only on the flesh side to avoid soggy skin. Use a thermometer to avoid overcooking. Rest salmon after baking for juicy texture. Leftovers keep well for 2 days in the fridge and reheat gently to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon, lemon pepper salmon, baked salmon, crispy salmon, quick dinner, healthy dinner, lemon salmon, easy salmon recipe