If you’re looking for a dinner that’s fast, flavorful, and feels fancy enough for guests but easy enough for a weeknight, then you have to try the 20 Minute Baked Salmon with Creamy Lemon Sauce Recipe. This dish brings together tender, flaky salmon baked to perfection, paired with a luscious, tangy, and silky lemon sauce made with Greek yogurt and just the right herbs. It’s fresh, bright, and incredibly satisfying, and best of all, it lets you enjoy a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this 20 Minute Baked Salmon with Creamy Lemon Sauce Recipe lies in the simplicity of its ingredients. Each one has a purpose, whether it’s to build the richness of the sauce, bring out the natural taste of the salmon, or add a fresh pop of color at the end.
- 1 lb Salmon filet: Fresh or thawed, firm salmon ensures juicy, flaky results after baking.
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (plain): Adds creamy tanginess and a smooth texture to the lemon sauce without heaviness.
- 2 Tbsp Butter: Melts into the sauce to provide richness and a velvety finish.
- 1 tsp Thyme (dried): Brings earthy herbal notes that beautifully complement the citrus flavors.
- 2 Tbsp Lemon juice: Gives the sauce brightness and zesty freshness that cuts through the richness.
- ½ tsp Garlic powder (divided): Adds subtle depth and savory warmth while letting the salmon shine.
- 1 Tbsp green onions (sliced): Provides a crisp, vibrant garnish to finish the dish with a fresh crunch.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to enhance and balance every bite.
How to Make 20 Minute Baked Salmon with Creamy Lemon Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Salmon
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F. It’s important to have the oven nice and hot so the salmon cooks evenly and gets that delicate texture. Rinse the salmon gently under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels—this helps the seasoning stick and prevents sogginess. Season the filet generously with salt, pepper, and half of the garlic powder (about ¼ teaspoon). This simple seasoning forms a perfect base for the creamy lemon sauce to shine.
Step 2: Bake the Salmon
Place the seasoned salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes depending on the thickness, or until the salmon flakes easily when tested with a fork and looks opaque throughout. The timing is quick but essential to keep the salmon moist without overcooking.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Lemon Sauce
While the salmon is in the oven, melt the butter over low heat in a small saucepan. Once melted, stir in the Greek yogurt, dried thyme, lemon juice, remaining garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until the sauce is smooth and everything is well combined without overcooking the yogurt. This sauce balances richness with bright lemon and herb flavors, giving the salmon a luscious coating that feels decadent but fresh.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
When the salmon is out of the oven, don’t wait to drizzle the warm creamy lemon sauce generously over each portion. Top with sliced green onions for a burst of color and a mild onion crunch. This final touch transforms the dish from simple to stunning with just a sprinkle of fresh green.
How to Serve 20 Minute Baked Salmon with Creamy Lemon Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
The sliced green onions recommended in the recipe are fantastic, but you can also experiment with fresh parsley or dill for an additional herbal lift. A few lemon zest curls on top can intensify the citrus notes beautifully and make the dish look even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This salmon pairs exceptionally well with light, fresh sides. Think steamed asparagus, roasted baby potatoes, or a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Rice pilaf or quinoa with herbs also works wonderfully by soaking up the creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the salmon over a bed of sautéed spinach or spiralized zucchini noodles. You can also plate it on decorative ceramic dishes with a bright wedge of lemon on the side to invite that extra drizzle of juice when serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salmon will keep well for up to 2 days, and the sauce may thicken but will still taste delicious when warmed gently.
Freezing
Although fresh salmon tastes best, you can freeze cooked salmon in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Keep the sauce separate if possible, as freezing may alter its texture. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the salmon gently in a low oven or microwave at short intervals to avoid drying it out. Reheat the creamy lemon sauce on the stove over low heat, stirring until smooth before pouring it over warmed salmon.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While salmon is perfect for its rich flavor and texture, other firm white fish like cod or halibut can work well with the creamy lemon sauce.
Is Greek yogurt essential in the sauce?
Greek yogurt provides creaminess with a tangy brightness and is lower in fat than cream. You could substitute sour cream, but yogurt gives a fresher feel to the sauce.
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque throughout. Typically, 12-15 minutes at 400 degrees F is perfect for a one-pound filet.
Can I make the sauce vegan or dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, try replacing the butter with olive oil and the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative, though the flavor and texture will differ slightly.
What if I don’t have fresh lemons on hand?
Fresh lemon juice is key for brightness in the sauce, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just be mindful of the quantity as bottled juice can be more acidic.
Final Thoughts
This 20 Minute Baked Salmon with Creamy Lemon Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a treat without any fuss. The comforting creaminess of the sauce paired with the light, flaky salmon will make it a new favorite to whip up whenever you want something quick, healthy, and delicious. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation!
Print
20 Minute Baked Salmon with Creamy Lemon Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This 20 Minute Baked Salmon with Creamy Lemon Sauce is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Tender salmon fillets are seasoned and oven-baked, then topped with a rich and tangy sauce made from Greek yogurt, butter, lemon juice, and herbs, garnished with fresh green onions for a delightful finish.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 1 lb Salmon filet (approx. 1 lb)
- Salt and pepper, as desired
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder (divided)
Creamy Lemon Sauce
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain)
- 2 Tbsp Butter
- 1 tsp Thyme (dried)
- 2 Tbsp Lemon juice
- 1 Tbsp Green onions (sliced)
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp Garlic powder (remaining)
Instructions
- Preheat and season: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Rinse the salmon filet under cold water and pat thoroughly dry with paper towels. Season the salmon evenly with salt, pepper, and half of the garlic powder (1/4 tsp).
- Bake the salmon: Place the seasoned salmon on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Prepare the sauce: While the salmon bakes, melt the butter in a small pot over medium heat. Once melted, reduce the heat to low and stir in the Greek yogurt, dried thyme, lemon juice, remaining garlic powder (1/4 tsp), salt, and pepper. Mix the sauce thoroughly until smooth and heated through, but avoid boiling.
- Serve and garnish: After the salmon is cooked, remove from oven and plate. Drizzle the creamy lemon sauce generously over the salmon fillets. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- Do not overcook the salmon; aim for moist, tender flesh.
- Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang without heaviness; full-fat or low-fat versions can be used.
- The sauce can be warmed gently but should not be boiled to prevent yogurt curdling.
- Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor in the sauce.
- Optional: add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for mild heat.
