In Just 25 Minutes, This Baked Lemon-Pepper Salmon Could Be on Your Dinner Table

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This baked lemon-pepper salmon is a bright, no-fuss recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Baking the salmon on a bed of fresh lemon slices infuses it with citrusy flavor while keeping the fillets moist and tender. A simple seasoning of lemon-pepper, garlic and salt delivers bold taste with minimal effort. Pair it with roasted vegetables, a crisp salad or fluffy brown rice for a complete meal.

Recipe image of Baked Lemon-Pepper Salmon.
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Photographer: Morgan Hunt Ward, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hauser, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall.

  • This salmon recipe makes an easy, flavorful weeknight dinner that's ready in 25 minutes.
  • Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help to lower inflammation. 
  • To get evenly cooked fish, choose salmon fillets that are about 1 inch thick.

Our Baked Lemon-Pepper Salmon uses a genius cooking method to infuse maximum lemon flavor into your salmon. Skinless, omega-3-rich salmon fillets are nestled on top of lemon slices and baked with a seasoning blend of lemon-pepper, salt and garlic powder. The fish is roasted with heart-healthy olive oil and sprinkled with fresh, aromatic dill. Keep reading for our expert tips on salmon selection, how to add even more flavor and more. 

Tips from the EatingWell Test Kitchen

These are the key tips we learned while developing and testing this recipe in our Test Kitchen to make sure it works, tastes great and is good for you too!

  • To ensure even cooking, choose salmon fillets that are about 1 inch thick.
  • You may leave the skin on the salmon if you prefer; however, it won’t become crispy, so put the salmon skin-side down in the pan.
  • For added flavor, consider placing your favorite aromatics, such as thinly sliced shallots or fennel, beneath the salmon.

Nutrition Notes

  • Salmon is a heart-healthy fish that is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which can help lower overall inflammation in the body and may help lower blood pressure. It is also an excellent source of protein, which can help with satiety and weight management. 
  • Extra-virgin olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats—great for your heart. It is also rich in polyphenols, which are antioxidants that can help lower inflammation.
Four raw salmon fillets on a plate surrounded by ingredients including lemon olive oil and herbs prepared for cooking

Photographer: Morgan Hunt Ward, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hauser, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall.

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Ingredients

Original recipe (1X) yields 4 servings

  • 4 (5-ounce) skinless salmon fillets

  • 1 tablespoon lemon-pepper seasoning

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • 8 lemon slices (⅛-inch thick; from 1 large lemon)

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

  • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh dill

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Pat 4 salmon fillets dry; sprinkle both sides with 1 tablespoon lemon-pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder and ¼ teaspoon salt. Arrange 8 lemon slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet; place the salmon fillets on top. Drizzle the salmon with 1 tablespoon oil.

    Four seasoned salmon fillets placed on lemon slices on a blue baking tray

    Photographer: Morgan Hunt Ward, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hauser, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall.

  3. Bake until the salmon flakes easily with a fork, about 14 minutes. Sprinkle with 2 teaspoons dill.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet

Calories 236, Fat 12g, Saturated Fat 2g, Cholesterol 78mg, Carbohydrates 2g, Total Sugars 1g, Added Sugars 0g, Protein 28g, Fiber 1g, Sodium 448mg, Potassium 719mg

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What’s in lemon-pepper seasoning?

    The most common ingredients in this seasoning are dried lemon zest, black peppercorns, salt, garlic, onion and citric acid. However, it’s important to check the label, as some brands may include additional ingredients such as sugar, artificial colors and anticaking agents to extend shelf life. Alternatively, you can try making your own seasoning using dehydrated lemon zest and your preferred spices.

  • Do I have to use dill?

    You can swap out the dill and bake the salmon with whatever fresh herbs you like best. We think rosemary sprigs would work especially well.

  • How should I store and reheat leftovers?

    We believe that fish is best enjoyed on the day it is cooked. However, if you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can eat the salmon cold or reheat it in the oven. To reheat, cover the salmon with foil and bake it at 300°F for about 10 to 15 minutes. If you prefer to use a microwave, be cautious, as it can dry out the salmon quickly. If microwaving, cover it with a damp paper towel and cook it on low heat, checking it every 30 seconds.

  • Can I freeze leftover cooked salmon?

    You can. Freeze the salmon in an airtight container; it should last for a couple of months. To thaw it, place it in the fridge overnight. Keep in mind that the texture of the salmon may not be ideal after freezing, so it’s best to flake it and use it like canned salmon. If you have enough leftovers, consider trying some recipes like our Cucumber-Salmon Salad Sandwich, Salmon Noodle Casserole or Black Bean & Salmon Tostadas.

  • What should I serve with Baked Lemon-Pepper Salmon?

    To complete the meal, consider adding a salad such as our Kale Salad with Balsamic & Parmesan or Caesar Salad with Crispy Artichokes. You can also incorporate vegetables, such as Maple-Roasted Sweet Potatoes or Cauliflower Rice. Alternatively, try delicious veggie combinations like our Roasted Brussels Sprouts & Potatoes or Sheet-Pan Roasted Root Vegetables. Baked, roasted and mashed potatoes pair well with salmon, as well as brown rice, quinoa and other grains.

Recipe developed by Jasmine Smith

EatingWell.com, October 2025

Additional reporting by
Sarah Pflugradt, Ph.D., RDN, CSCS
Sarah Pflugradt

Sarah Pflugradt is a registered dietitian who holds a Ph.D. in Health and Human Performance and is a certified strength and conditioning specialist. Her extensive background in dietetics has made her a sought-after expert in family and youth sports nutrition.

and
Linda Frahm
Linda Frahm has been a copy editor and fact checker working with food and nutrition content for the past 30-plus years for consumer print and online publications.