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–+ servings
Salmon

Low-Calorie Lemon Herb Salmon - Bright, Fresh, and Weeknight Easy

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, 4 to 6 ounces each)
  • Lemon (you’ll use both zest and juice)
  • Fresh herbs: parsley and dill (or substitute basil or chives)
  • Garlic (1–2 cloves)
  • Olive oil (just a small amount)
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • Lemon slices (optional, for roasting and serving)

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven or air fryer. Oven: 400°F (200°C). Air fryer: 390°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment for easy cleanup.
  2. Prep the salmon. Pat fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and encourages light browning.
  3. Make the lemon-herb mix. In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley, 1 tablespoon chopped dill, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 teaspoon olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like heat.
  4. Season the salmon. Rub the lemon-herb mixture evenly over the top of each fillet. If using skin-on salmon, leave the skin plain—season only the flesh side.
  5. Optional lemon bed. Place thin lemon slices on the sheet pan and set the salmon on top. This gently perfumes the fish without making it sour.
  6. Roast or air fry. Cook for 8–12 minutes, depending on thickness. A 1-inch-thick fillet typically needs about 10–11 minutes. You’re looking for opaque flesh that flakes easily and an internal temp of about 125–130°F for medium.
  7. Rest and serve. Let the salmon rest for 2 minutes. Finish with a light squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Serve with greens, steamed veggies, or a simple grain if you want more substance.

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