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Lemon Pepper Salmon

This Lemon Pepper Salmon is flaky, tender, and packed with bright citrusy flavor. Baked or pan-seared, it’s an easy and healthy dinner that comes together in under 20 minutes!
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword Easy Salmon Recipe, Healthy Baked Salmon, Lemon Pepper Salmon
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 320kcal
Author Creator Child
Cost $18

Equipment

  • Baking sheet (for oven method)
  • Large skillet (for stovetop method)
  • Tongs
  • Small mixing bowl

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

  • 4 salmon fillets skin-on or skinless
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 ½ tsp lemon zest
  • 1 ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp paprika optional, for extra color
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
  • 4 lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Option 1: Baked Lemon Pepper Salmon

    Preheat & Prep:

    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.

    Season the Salmon:

    • Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
    • Brush each fillet with olive oil or melted butter and drizzle with lemon juice.
    • In a small bowl, mix lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, salt, and paprika.
    • Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the salmon.

    Bake to Perfection:

    • Place salmon fillets on the baking sheet, skin-side down.
    • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

    Serve & Garnish:

    • Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

    Option 2: Pan-Seared Lemon Pepper Salmon

    • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tbsp olive oil.
    • Season the salmon as directed in Step 2.
    • Sear the salmon, skin-side down first, for 3-4 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.

    Notes

    Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a low oven (300°F/150°C) for 5 minutes or in a skillet over low heat.
    Substitutions:
    • Swap salmon for trout or cod for a similar flavor.
    • Use ghee instead of butter for a richer taste.
    • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight heat kick.