Marinated Salmon with Garlic and Herbs

Marinated Salmon with Garlic and Herbs is a flavorful, elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion—from a weeknight dinner to entertaining guests. The salmon is infused with a simple yet bold marinade of garlic, fresh herbs, lemon, and olive oil, resulting in a juicy, tender fillet that’s bursting with flavor whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Infuses rich flavor with minimal effort
• Uses fresh, simple ingredients
• Perfect for grilling, baking, or stovetop cooking
• Healthy and packed with omega-3 fatty acids
• Ideal for meal prep or make-ahead dinners

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Salmon fillets
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice and zest
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Fresh thyme or rosemary
• Honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
• Salt
• Black pepper

Directions

1. Make the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice and zest, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, pepper, and honey or maple syrup if using.
2. Marinate the salmon: Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Pour marinade over the salmon, ensuring it’s well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
3. Preheat your cooking method:
   • Grill: Preheat to medium-high and lightly oil the grates.
   • Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C).
   • Stovetop: Heat a non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium heat.
4. Cook the salmon:
   • Grill: Cook for 46 minutes per side, or until salmon flakes easily.
   • Bake: Place on a lined baking sheet and bake for 1215 minutes.
   • Stovetop: Sear for 45 minutes per side.
5. Serve: Garnish with additional herbs and lemon slices. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Marinating time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
• Cook time: 1015 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes to 1 hour

Variations

• Citrus blend: Mix lemon with orange or lime juice for a new flavor twist
• Herb switch: Use dill, tarragon, or basil in place of parsley and thyme
• Asian-style: Add a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil for an umami kick
• Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder to the marinade
• Glaze it: Brush with extra marinade and broil the last 2 minutes for a caramelized finish

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freezing: Freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or oven at 275°F (135°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to prevent drying

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just thaw completely before marinating so the flavors absorb properly.

How long can I marinate the salmon?

30 minutes is ideal, up to 2 hours. Longer can break down the texture too much.

Can I cook this in the air fryer?

Yes, air fry at 400°F for 1012 minutes, checking for doneness at the 8-minute mark.

What’s the best way to prevent salmon from sticking to the grill?

Oil the grates well and don’t flip the salmon too soon. Let it naturally release from the grill.

Can I leave the skin on?

Yes, it helps hold the fillet together during cooking and gets crispy if pan-seared.

What herbs go best with salmon?

Parsley, thyme, dill, and rosemary are excellent choices.

What’s a good side dish?

Serve with rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

Can I use this marinade on other fish?

Absolutely—try it on trout, cod, or halibut.

Is the sweetener necessary?

It’s optional but adds a nice balance to the acidity and herbs.

How do I know when salmon is done?

It should flake easily with a fork and be opaque in the center, around 125°F internally.

Conclusion

Marinated Salmon with Garlic and Herbs is an easy yet elegant dish that’s full of bright, fresh flavor. With its healthy ingredients and flexible cooking methods, it’s a perfect staple for home cooks looking to add more seafood to their menus. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete, satisfying meal that looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality dinner.

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