Zesty Lemon Basil Salmon Recipe: A Fresh Summer Delight

Succulent lemon basil salmon emerges as a culinary masterpiece that promises to revolutionize your dinner routine.

Fresh herbs dance alongside delicate fish, creating a symphony of flavors.

Mediterranean influences shine through each tender bite of this elegant dish.

Subtle citrus notes complement the rich salmon, making every forkful a delightful experience.

Home cooks can easily master this restaurant-quality preparation with just a few simple ingredients.

Professional chefs and kitchen novices alike will appreciate the straightforward technique that delivers maximum taste.

Prepare to be amazed by how quickly you can create this restaurant-worthy meal that will impress even the most discerning palates.

FAQs

• How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?

The salmon is done when it easily flakes with a fork and turns from translucent to opaque pink. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

• Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?

While fresh basil provides the best flavor, you can substitute with dried basil. Use about 1/3 of the amount of fresh basil called for in the recipe, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

• What type of salmon works best for this recipe?

Wild-caught salmon like sockeye or king salmon are excellent choices. However, farm-raised salmon also works well and tends to be more budget-friendly and consistently available.

• Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for low-carb and keto diets. It’s also a lean protein option that’s high in omega-3 fatty acids and healthy for most dietary needs.

Lemon Basil Salmon: Fresh and Flavorful

• Packed with omega-3 fatty acids from salmon, fresh herbs, and zesty lemon, this meal delivers a healthy punch that supports heart and brain health without sacrificing flavor.
• Prepare this delicious meal in less than 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy families wanting a nutritious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Adaptable recipe allows you to swap herbs, adjust seasoning, or pair with various sides, making it a versatile option for different taste preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients for Lemon Basil Salmon

• Salmon Fillets: Fresh, high-quality fish with a rich, buttery flavor that serves as the centerpiece of this easy meal.

• Basil, Garlic: Fresh herbs and aromatics that provide bright, zesty flavor to complement the salmon.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the natural taste of the fish.

• Olive Oil: Helps create a smooth, flavorful marinade and prevents the salmon from drying out during cooking.
• Lemon Juice: Adds a tangy, citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness of the salmon and provides a fresh finish.
• Nonstick Spray: Ensures the salmon doesn't stick to the baking dish and allows for easy cleanup.

How to Cook Easy Lemon Basil Salmon

Step 1: Crank Up The Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 400F (200C) and get ready for some delicious salmon magic.

Step 2: Prep The Cooking Vessel

Grab your baking dish and give it a quick spritz with nonstick spray or a light drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Whip Up The Flavor Bomb

• Fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Fresh lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir these together until they create a mouthwatering marinade.

Step 4: Dress The Salmon

Place your salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish and generously pour the herb-lemon mixture over the top, making sure each piece gets an even coating.

Step 5: Bake To Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and let the salmon cook for 15-20 minutes.

You’ll know it’s done when the fish easily flakes with a fork and looks beautifully golden.

Step 6: Serve And Enjoy

Transfer the salmon to serving plates and if you’re feeling extra zesty, squeeze some additional fresh lemon juice on top.

Dive in while it’s hot and savor every bite!

Tips for a Flavorful Lemon Basil Salmon

• Pat salmon dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy exterior and prevent steaming.
• Swap basil with dill, parsley, or thyme for different flavor profiles that complement the fish.
• Use a fork to gently test salmon's flakiness; it should easily separate when fully cooked without looking dry.
• Remove salmon from oven when it's slightly translucent in the center, as it continues cooking from residual heat.
• Let salmon rest for 3-5 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and moist result.

Storing and Reheating Lemon Basil Salmon

• Store leftover salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup and maintain texture.
• Warm salmon at 275F for 10-15 minutes, wrapped in foil to prevent drying. Drizzle extra olive oil to keep moisture and restore original flavor.
• Reheat on 50% power for 30-45 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overcooking. Add a splash of water or lemon juice to prevent salmon from becoming tough.
• Enjoy cold salmon on salads or in sandwiches within 2 days of cooking for best taste and food safety.

Pairings to Elevate Lemon Basil Salmon

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a zesty sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio that complements the bright lemon and herbal basil notes, cutting through the salmon's richness while enhancing its delicate flavors.
• Serve with Herbed Quinoa Salad: Create a light, refreshing side dish using quinoa, fresh herbs like parsley and mint, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette that echoes the salmon's citrusy profile and adds nutritious texture.
• Complement with Roasted Asparagus: Prepare simple roasted asparagus spears with olive oil, sea salt, and a sprinkle of lemon zest to provide a green vegetable side that harmonizes with the salmon's lemony essence and adds elegant green color to the plate.
• Match with Chilled Cucumber Water: Prepare a light, refreshing cucumber-infused water to cleanse the palate and provide a cool, hydrating accompaniment that balances the salmon's rich, herbal flavors without overwhelming the dish.

Variations for Lemon Basil Salmon

• Herb-Crusted Alternative: Replace basil with fresh dill or parsley for a different herbal flavor profile while maintaining the zesty lemon essence.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free and use tamari instead of traditional seasonings for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Low-Sodium Version: Reduce salt content by using fresh herbs, lemon zest, and pepper to enhance flavor without adding extra sodium.
• Mediterranean Transformation: Add chopped capers, sliced kalamata olives, and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese before baking to create a Greek-inspired seafood dish.

Lemon Basil Salmon Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 2 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Savory Lemon Basil Salmon brings Mediterranean coastal charm straight to your kitchen, blending zesty citrus with fresh herbal notes. Delicate fish meets bright flavors, promising a light and elegant dining experience you’ll crave again and again.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 2 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces/170 grams each)

Fresh Herbs and Aromatics:

• 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced

Liquid and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 400F (200C) and prepare a baking dish with a light coating of olive oil or nonstick spray.
2. Combine fresh basil, crushed garlic, tangy lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and cracked pepper in a mixing bowl to create a fragrant marinade.
3. Carefully arrange salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish, ensuring even spacing.
4. Drizzle the herb-infused mixture generously over the salmon, coating each fillet completely.
5. Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, watching for the fish to become opaque and easily flake when tested with a fork.
6. Remove from the oven and let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
7. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for an extra burst of bright flavor.

Notes

• Customize seasoning by adjusting basil and garlic quantities to match personal taste preferences.
• Select fresh, high-quality salmon with bright color and firm texture for optimal flavor and tenderness.
• Consider using alternative herbs like dill or parsley for different flavor profiles if basil isn’t available.
• Ensure salmon reaches internal temperature of 145°F to guarantee safe and perfectly cooked fish while maintaining moisture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 24 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg