1-First Step: Preparation and Mise en Place Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is high enough to crisp the edges but gentle enough to cook the fish through without drying it out. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup later. Take your 4 salmon fillets out of the refrigerator and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key to getting a good sear and ensuring the marinade adheres properly to the flesh.

2-Second Step: Creating the Marinade While the oven heats, prepare the bright and savory sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, the juice of 2 lemons, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until the mixture emulsifies slightly and becomes creamy. This step infuses the oil with the garlic and lemon flavors, ensuring every bite of the fish is seasoned evenly. Taste the marinade and adjust the salt or lemon juice to your preference.

3-Third Step: Coating the Salmon Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are skin-side down. Using a pastry brush or a spoon, generously brush the lemon garlic mixture over each fillet. Make sure to coat the tops and sides completely. Take the second lemon, slice it thinly into rounds, and place a few slices on top of each piece of fish. This not only looks beautiful but also roasts the lemon, softening its acidity and adding an intense burst of citrus flavor to the salmon.

4-Fourth Step: Baking to Perfection Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake the lemon salmon for about 12 to 15 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your fillets. You will know the fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the flesh turns opaque. For a slightly crispy edge, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 1 to 2 minutes, but watch it closely to prevent burning. The internal temperature should reach 145°F for safety.

5-Final Step: Finishing Touches and Serving Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the fish rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the fillet, making it even more tender. Serve the salmon warm, garnished with fresh parsley or dill if you like. It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a light salad. This healthy baked salmon recipe is ready to enjoy in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for any night of the week.