This Lemon, Garlic, and Thyme Baked Salmon is a light yet flavorful dinner that’s as easy as it is elegant. Flaky, tender fillets are coated in a honey-citrus glaze with fresh herbs and roasted to perfection—perfect for weeknights or entertaining.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
It’s fast, healthy, and packed with fresh, bright flavor. The combo of sweet honey, zesty lemon, and aromatic thyme makes every bite pop. Plus, cleanup is easy thanks to sheet pan baking. Pair with roasted veggies or rice for a simple, satisfying meal.
Lemon, Garlic, and Thyme Baked Salmon
There’s something undeniably comforting about a piece of perfectly baked salmon. It’s moist, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. This version leans into clean, bright flavors—think lemon, garlic, thyme, and a touch of honey for balance.
The glaze is the hero here: honey lends a gentle sweetness that balances the acidity of fresh lemon juice and zest, while garlic and thyme bring depth and a bit of earthiness. It’s simple, but the combination is magical.
We use skinless salmon fillets so the glaze can coat every inch. After a short marinate, the fish is baked in a hot oven, keeping it moist and tender inside while slightly crisping the edges.
This dish is ready in about 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy nights. It also scales easily—just double the marinade if you’re cooking for a crowd.
Serve it with roasted vegetables, herbed quinoa, or a fresh salad for a nourishing and balanced dinner.
Even if you’re not usually a big seafood fan, this recipe might just convert you. The flavor is fresh and bright, not fishy, and the texture is buttery and flaky.
If you’re meal prepping, it stores well in the fridge and can be served warm or cold over greens.
It also makes a gorgeous centerpiece for a brunch or light lunch with crusty bread and chilled drinks.
It’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and rich in omega-3s and protein.
Bonus: You only need one bowl and one baking pan. Less mess, more dinner.
Servings 4
Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 lbs salmon fillets (cut into 4 pieces)
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic, finely grated or minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lemon zest, garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Place salmon fillets in a large mixing bowl or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the fish and coat evenly.
- Transfer salmon to prepared baking sheet. Spoon any remaining marinade over the top.
- Bake for 13–15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from oven and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Tips
- Don’t overbake—salmon continues to cook slightly after removing from the oven.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for subtle heat.
- Serve leftovers over a grain bowl or mixed greens.
- For extra citrus flavor, top with additional lemon zest just before serving.
