18 Zesty Lemon Salmon Recipes Perfect for Summer

As the weather heats up, it’s time to trade in your hearty winter stews and casseroles for lighter, brighter dishes that scream summer. And what better way to do so than with a delicious piece of salmon, infused with the citrusy goodness of lemons? In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouthwatering lemon salmon recipes that are sure to become staples in your summer cooking repertoire.

From classic baked salmon dishes to grilled and pan-seared options, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of sweet and tangy glazes or bold and herby flavors, these zesty lemon salmon recipes are guaranteed to impress.

Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe

A bright and citrusy twist on traditional salmon, this recipe combines the richness of garlic butter with the brightness of lemon for a deliciously balanced flavor.

Ingredients:
• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 lemons, juiced
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, garlic, and softened butter until well combined.
5. Divide the butter mixture evenly among the four salmon fillets, spreading it over each one.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Honey Lemon Glazed Salmon

Honey Lemon Glazed Salmon
Elevate your seafood game with this sweet and tangy glazed salmon recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the salmon, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the glazed salmon.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through, flaky, and slightly caramelized.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Lemon Dill Grilled Salmon

Lemon Dill Grilled Salmon
Brighten up your dinner with this refreshing twist on grilled salmon. The combination of citrusy lemon and subtle dill creates a flavorful profile that’s perfect for spring and summer.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped dill
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and brush the lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Sprinkle chopped dill on top of each fillet.
5. Grill salmon for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.

Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes total

Creamy Lemon Parmesan Salmon

Creamy Lemon Parmesan Salmon
Brighten up your dinner plate with this flavorful salmon dish, featuring a rich and creamy lemon sauce infused with parmesan cheese.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
5. Drizzle the creamy sauce over the salmon, making sure each piece is coated.
6. Sprinkle garlic evenly over the top of the salmon.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon reaches desired doneness.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Lemon Pepper Salmon with Asparagus

Lemon Pepper Salmon with Asparagus
Brighten up your dinner plate with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of salmon with the zestiness of lemon and pepper.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt to taste
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the baking sheet, leaving space between each fillet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, black pepper, and thyme.
5. Brush the mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Toss asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a separate baking sheet.
9. Roast asparagus in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
10. Serve salmon with roasted asparagus.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Lemon Herb Crusted Salmon

Lemon Herb Crusted Salmon
Brighten up your dinner plate with this zesty and aromatic lemon herb crusted salmon recipe, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.

Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup lemon zest
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon zest, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush the tops of the salmon with olive oil.
6. Sprinkle the lemon herb mixture evenly over each fillet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Lemon Butter Garlic Salmon Foil Packets

Lemon Butter Garlic Salmon Foil Packets
A flavorful and easy-to-make dinner that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pieces of aluminum foil, heavy-duty

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, lemon juice, garlic, and parsley.
3. Place a salmon fillet on each piece of foil, leaving a 1-inch border around the fish.
4. Spoon the lemon butter mixture evenly over each fillet, making sure to cover all surfaces.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the foil over the salmon, creating a tight seal, but not too tight that it’s hard to open later.
7. Place packets on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Lemon Rosemary Roasted Salmon

Lemon Rosemary Roasted Salmon
Elevate your dinner game with this bright and citrusy salmon dish, infused with the earthy flavor of rosemary.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
5. Brush the mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Sprinkle chopped rosemary over each fillet.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Lemon Caper Pan-Seared Salmon

Lemon Caper Pan-Seared Salmon
Lemon Caper Pan-Seared Salmon Recipe

Elevate your seafood game with this zesty and flavorful recipe that combines the brightness of lemon, the brininess of capers, and the simplicity of pan-searing.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add butter to the preheated pan, letting it melt slightly.
4. Place the salmon fillets in the pan, skin side up (if they have skin).
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side, or until a crust forms.
6. Flip the salmon and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, Dijon mustard, parsley, and capers.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total

Lemon Soy Glazed Salmon

Lemon Soy Glazed Salmon
Brighten up your dinner table with this citrusy and savory glazed salmon recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lemon juice, honey, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the salmon, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Lemon Basil Grilled Salmon Skewers

Lemon Basil Grilled Salmon Skewers
Elevate your grilling game with these refreshing and flavorful salmon skewers, perfectly balanced by the brightness of lemon and the subtlety of basil.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly chopped basil
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 wooden skewers

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut salmon into 1-inch pieces and thread onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the mixture evenly over the salmon, making sure each piece is coated.
5. Sprinkle chopped basil over the top of each skewer.
6. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes

Lemon Garlic Salmon Pasta

Lemon Garlic Salmon Pasta
A flavorful and healthy pasta dish that combines the richness of salmon with the brightness of lemon and garlic.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz salmon fillet, skin removed
– 1 cup pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add salmon fillet to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Remove salmon from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to low and add lemon juice, white wine (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has slightly thickened.
6. Combine cooked pasta and sauce in the skillet. Toss to coat.
7. Slice salmon into thin strips and place on top of pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Lemon Tarragon Poached Salmon

Lemon Tarragon Poached Salmon
A refreshing twist on traditional poached salmon, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the subtle anise flavor of tarragon, perfect for a light and flavorful dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh tarragon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon slices and tarragon leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine water, white wine, lemon juice, and tarragon.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and add salmon fillets, skin side up if applicable.
5. Poach for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh lemon slices and tarragon leaves.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Lemon Mustard Glazed Salmon

Lemon Mustard Glazed Salmon
Add a bright and tangy twist to your salmon with this easy-to-make Lemon Mustard Glazed Salmon recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup lemon juice
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place salmon fillets on the sheet.
4. Brush the lemon-mustard glaze evenly over each fillet.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the glaze and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Lemon Thyme Salmon with Quinoa

Lemon Thyme Salmon with Quinoa
Brighten up your dinner plate with this refreshing and flavorful salmon recipe, perfectly paired with nutty quinoa.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, thyme, and honey.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; brush the lemon mixture evenly over each fillet.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
6. Bake salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve salmon on top of quinoa, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Lemon Ginger Salmon Stir-Fry

Lemon Ginger Salmon Stir-Fry
A vibrant and flavorful stir-fry that combines the richness of salmon with the brightness of lemon and ginger, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, and lemon juice; stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Place the salmon fillets on top of the vegetables; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Lemon Panko Crusted Salmon

Lemon Panko Crusted Salmon
Brighten up your dinner plate with this zesty and flavorful salmon dish, featuring a crispy lemon-panko crust.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets on a plate or tray and coat each with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Lemon Coconut Curry Salmon

Lemon Coconut Curry Salmon
Brighten up your dinner plate with this zesty and aromatic dish that combines the flavors of lemon, coconut, and curry with succulent salmon.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, coconut cream, curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the top of each fillet with the lemon-coconut mixture, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Sprinkle minced garlic over the top of each fillet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Summary

Get ready to sizzle this summer with these 18 zesty lemon salmon recipes! From classic lemon garlic butter baked salmon to creative twists like lemon soy glazed and lemon panko crusted, there’s a dish here for every taste. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-searing, the bright citrus flavor of lemon pairs perfectly with the richness of salmon. These refreshing recipes are sure to become your new go-to’s for warm weather cooking.

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