Romantic Herb Roasted Salmon

Name: Romantic Herb Roasted Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 lemon, sliced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely adore cooking this Romantic Herb Roasted Salmon for special occasions. The way the herbs meld with the rich flavor of the salmon creates an unforgettable dish that delights the senses. Each time I prepare this recipe, the air fills with an irresistible aroma that makes my mouth water. It's the perfect way to impress a loved one or simply enjoy a cozy night in. The simplicity of the preparation allows me to focus on companionship while the oven does all the work.

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:10:07.915Z

Preparing the Romantic Herb Roasted Salmon is always a joy for me. I've played around with different herbs over the years, but I've found that a mix of dill, parsley, and thyme really brings out the salmon's natural richness. When I marinate the fish beforehand, it not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the fish super moist, which is key for a delicious meal.

Another tip that I've discovered is to roast the salmon on a bed of lemon slices. Not only does this add a lovely citrus note, but it also protects the bottom of the fish from drying out. Every single time I serve this dish, it never fails to elicit compliments!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh herbs enhance the natural richness of the salmon.
Quick and easy preparation leaves time for romance.
Perfectly balanced flavors create an unforgettable dining experience.

      

The Role of Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs are crucial in this Romantic Herb Roasted Salmon recipe, as they elevate the dish’s flavor profile. Dill, parsley, and thyme each contribute unique aromatic qualities; dill adds a gentle anise note, while parsley brings a fresh, green flavor. Thyme offers a warm, earthy undertone that harmonizes beautifully with the rich taste of the salmon. You can experiment with other herbs like basil or chives for a different twist, but be mindful that each one may alter the dish's final flavor significantly.

In this recipe, let the herbs sit with the olive oil for at least 10 minutes before marinating the salmon. This step allows the herbs to infuse their flavors into the oil fully, creating a fragrant marinade that clings to the fish effectively. If you find yourself in a pinch, dried herbs can be used instead, but the general rule is to use one-third the amount as dried herbs tend to have a more concentrated flavor.

Perfectly Baking Salmon

Baking the salmon at 375°F (190°C) ensures even cooking while allowing the fish to remain moist and tender. This temperature strikes the right balance between cooking the salmon through and preventing it from drying out. Check the salmon after 15 minutes, as ovens can vary; you want to pull it out when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. A gentle press with a spatula can help check doneness without damaging the fillet.

If you prefer a crispier top, consider broiling the salmon for an additional 2 to 3 minutes at the end of the baking time. Keep a close eye during broiling to prevent burning. If you want to add a crunchy texture, sprinkle some panko bread crumbs mixed with a bit more olive oil on top before broiling, which creates an appealing golden crust.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Romantic Herb Roasted Salmon

2 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 lemon, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to use fresh herbs for the best flavor!

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, dill, parsley, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a dish and pour the herb marinade over them. Let sit for 10 minutes.

Arrange in Baking Dish

Place lemon slices on a baking dish and place the marinated salmon on top of the lemon.

Bake the Salmon

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Garnish with extra herbs and serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider serving with a side of asparagus or a fresh green salad.

Serving Suggestions

This Romantic Herb Roasted Salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. You might consider serving it on a bed of sautéed spinach, which complements the fish's richness and adds a lovely color contrast. For a touch of elegance, drizzle a thin lemon vinaigrette over your sides to enhance the citrus notes present in the fish.

For a starch component, try a wild rice pilaf flavored with herbs or lemon; it adds texture and absorbs the flavors from the salmon. If you're in the mood for something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes can create a delightful combination. Make sure to balance the creamy aspect with a light side to keep the meal enjoyable and not too heavy.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning to serve this dish for a special occasion, you can prep the marinade a few hours ahead of time. Just keep it covered in the fridge to let the flavors meld. When it’s time to cook, simply marinate the salmon, which means less fuss when your guests arrive. However, avoid marinating longer than 30 minutes, as the acidic nature of the lemon can start to break down the fish, leading to a less desirable texture.

Leftover salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s wonderful cold on salads or can be gently reheated in the microwave, but be cautious to do so at low power to avoid drying it out further. To freeze, wrap the cooled salmon tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and it can last up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just be sure to thaw the salmon completely before marinating.

→ What other herbs can I use?

You can also try tarragon, basil, or chives for different flavor profiles.

→ How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when it's fully cooked.

→ Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure you use a larger baking dish and adjust cooking time if necessary.