Looking for a dinner that’s easy to make, full of flavor, and feels fancy without the fuss? This Herb-Crusted Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter is everything you need. With its crisp, golden topping and flaky, tender salmon beneath, this dish brings restaurant-quality flair to your dinner table — no reservations needed.
Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself to a nutritious meal, this salmon recipe is a reliable go-to. With only 10 minutes of prep time and wholesome, fresh ingredients, it’s both stress-free and impressive.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Salmon Recipe
This recipe stands out because it’s:
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Quick & easy – ready in 30 minutes
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Healthy – rich in omega-3s and lean protein
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Flavorful – packed with herbs, lemon zest, and a buttery drizzle
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Crunchy & tender – panko topping provides the perfect contrast
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Perfect for weeknights or special occasions
If you’ve ever thought salmon was hard to make at home, think again — this is the perfect recipe to change your mind.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salmon:
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4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Herb Crust:
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1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
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2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
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Zest of 1 lemon
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
For the Lemon Butter Drizzle:
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3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
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2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
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Lemon slices (for garnish)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
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Baking dish or sheet pan
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Parchment paper or cooking spray
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Small mixing bowls
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Zester or microplane
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Measuring spoons and cups
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Basting brush (optional)
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Spatula or fish turner for serving
How to Make Herb-Crusted Baked Salmon – Step by Step
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Herb Crust
In a small bowl, combine:
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1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
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2 tbsp grated Parmesan
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2 tbsp chopped parsley
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1 tbsp chopped dill
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Zest of 1 lemon
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
Stir until the mixture is well blended and evenly coated in oil.
Step 3: Season and Top the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets in your prepared baking dish. Pat them dry with a paper towel, then season with salt and pepper. Gently press the herb breadcrumb mixture onto the tops of each fillet to form a crust.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter
In another bowl, mix together:
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3 tbsp melted butter
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2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Drizzle this mixture over the crusted salmon.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden brown. Depending on thickness, check for doneness around the 15-minute mark.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top with thin lemon slices for garnish and serve warm.
Tips for Perfect Herb-Crusted Salmon
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Don’t skip the zest – Lemon zest adds brightness and depth that lemon juice alone can’t match.
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Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. Dried herbs can work in a pinch but fresh parsley and dill really shine here.
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Press the breadcrumb topping firmly so it adheres well and forms a crisp crust during baking.
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Let salmon rest 2–3 minutes after baking before serving for best texture and flavor.
Recipe Variations and Swaps
No Dill? Try:
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Fresh basil, tarragon, or thyme.
Dairy-Free?
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Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
Want Extra Crunch?
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Toast the panko lightly in a dry pan for 3–4 minutes before mixing to boost the texture.
Make it Gluten-Free:
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Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
Add Veggies:
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Toss asparagus or cherry tomatoes onto the baking sheet with the salmon for a one-pan meal.
What to Serve With Herb-Crusted Salmon
This baked salmon pairs beautifully with:
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Garlic mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash
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Lemon rice pilaf or herb couscous
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Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts
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Simple garden salad with vinaigrette
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A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with citrus
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
To Store:
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To Reheat:
Warm in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes, or microwave gently (covered) at 50% power to avoid overcooking. Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to refresh the flavor.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
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Calories: 320
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Fat: 20g
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Carbs: 5g
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Protein: 30g
This makes it an excellent option for those following low-carb, high-protein, or Mediterranean diets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and topping.
Q: Can I prepare this in advance?
You can mix the herb topping and prepare the lemon butter ahead of time. Assemble just before baking to preserve the crust’s texture.
Q: What internal temperature should salmon be?
Cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) at the thickest point.
Q: Can I air fry this salmon?
Yes! Set your air fryer to 375°F and cook for about 10–12 minutes, depending on the size of the fillets.
Final Thoughts
This Herb-Crusted Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter proves that healthy meals don’t have to be boring — or difficult. With vibrant herbs, a light crunch, and buttery citrus notes, this dish checks every box: weeknight-friendly, dinner-party-worthy, and endlessly flavorful.
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Happy cooking!