Crispy Baked Salmon with Herbs

Name: Crispy Baked Salmon with Herbs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons dried dill; 2 teaspoons dried parsley; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 lemon wedges (for serving)

Highlighted under: Fresh & Healthy Plates

I absolutely love making this Crispy Baked Salmon with Herbs! It’s my go-to recipe for quick weeknight dinners or when I want to impress guests with something elegant yet simple. The combination of herbs and the crispy skin creates a delightful experience with each bite. With just a few ingredients, I can whip this dish up in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy evenings. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked on this flavorful dish!

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2026-02-19T18:22:18.800Z

When I first made this crispy salmon, I was blown away by how simple yet flavorful it was. The key to achieving that perfectly crispy skin is to make sure the salmon fillets are properly dried before baking. I usually use a paper towel, which not only helps the skin crisp up but also allows the seasonings to adhere better.

I experimented with different herb combinations and settled on dill and parsley because they complement the salmon's richness perfectly. Every time I serve this dish, guests rave about the taste and how the herbs elevate it to a new level of deliciousness!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Perfectly crispy skin with a burst of fresh herbal flavor
Quick prep and cook time makes it ideal for busy weeknights
Healthy and packed with omega-3 fatty acids

The Importance of Drying the Salmon

One of the key steps to achieving that coveted crispy skin on your salmon is drying the fillets thoroughly before cooking. Excess moisture creates steam in the oven, leading to a less-than-ideal texture. Use a clean paper towel to gently pat each side of the salmon. I recommend doing this step right before seasoning to maintain the fish's freshness and ensure the skin crisps up beautifully during baking.

Additionally, drying the fillets allows the oil and seasoning to adhere better, enhancing the flavor profile of your dish. This minor adjustment can make a significant difference in the overall eating experience. For best results, consider letting the salmon sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes after drying and before seasoning.

Choosing Your Herbs Wisely

In this recipe, dried dill and parsley complement the salmon perfectly, infusing it with fresh, vibrant flavors. Dried herbs have a concentrated taste, making them ideal for quick roasts like this. If you prefer using fresh herbs, simply use three times the amount—but make sure to chop them finely. Fresh herbs should be added towards the end of cooking to retain their aromatic qualities.

If you're in the mood for experimentation, consider swapping in other herbs like tarragon or thyme. Each herb brings its unique profile; for instance, tarragon adds an aniseed-like warmth, perfect for a twist on flavor. Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning accordingly, depending on the strength and freshness of the herbs you've chosen.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

While this crispy baked salmon is fantastic on its own, consider serving it alongside a refreshing salad or grilled vegetables to balance the richness of the fish. A citrus-based dressing pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the salmon and providing a bright contrast. You might also try serving it over a bed of quinoa or couscous for a more substantial meal, which will soak up those wonderful flavors.

For an elegant presentation, drizzle a simple lemon-butter sauce over the fillets just before serving. To create this, melt two tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan and add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, stirring until combined. This additional layer enhances the overall dish while complementing the herbs seamlessly.

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons dried dill
2 teaspoons dried parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
2 lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Prepare the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help achieve a crispier skin.

Season the Fillets

Drizzle olive oil over the salmon, then sprinkle dill, parsley, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning into the fillets to ensure they're evenly coated.

Bake the Salmon

Place the salmon skin-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the crispy baked salmon with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty flavor.

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or chives for different flavor profiles. Also, make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure even cooking.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're prepping for a busy week, you can season the salmon fillets in advance. Once seasoned, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate the fish fully. When you’re ready to cook, simply remove them from the fridge while preheating your oven to give them a few minutes to come up to room temperature, which helps achieve even cooking.

For meal prep, you could also portion the cooked salmon into airtight containers and store them in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-12 minutes for perfectly warmed salmon without losing its texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that the salmon isn’t crisping up as expected, it’s often due to excess moisture. Ensure the fillets are thoroughly dried before applying the oil and seasonings. Also, make sure your oven is hot enough; if it’s too low, the skin may not crisp even after the proper cooking time.

Another common issue is overcooking, which can make the salmon dry and tough. Keep a close eye on the salmon during the last few minutes of baking. It's done when it flakes easily with a fork but still has a slight translucency in the center. Using a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C) for moist, flaky fish.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable. If you’re cooking for a larger group, simply multiply the ingredients accordingly. However, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; give each fillet space to breathe for optimal crispiness. If needed, bake the salmon in batches to ensure perfect results every time.

For smaller portions, this recipe works well for one or two fillets. If you’re saving some for later, ensure leftovers are stored properly and reheated gently to maintain their delicious texture. The flexible nature of this recipe allows you to adapt it to suit your needs effortlessly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs will give a more vibrant flavor. Use three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.

→ What can I serve with the salmon?

This salmon pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

For best results, prepare the salmon just before cooking. However, you can season it a few hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.