Roasted Whole Side of Salmon – Elegant, Flavorful, and Perfectly Tender

This Roasted Whole Side of Salmon is an impressive yet surprisingly simple dish that’s perfect for entertaining or a wholesome weeknight dinner. Roasted with a light touch of lemon, herbs, and olive oil, the salmon turns out flaky, moist, and full of bright, fresh flavor. It’s a beautiful centerpiece that’s as healthy as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Show-Stopping Presentation – A whole side of salmon makes a gorgeous main dish.
Bright & Fresh – Lemon and herbs enhance the natural flavor of the fish.
Simple to Prepare – Minimal prep with maximum flavor.
Nutritious & Light – Packed with omega-3s, protein, and healthy fats.

Ingredients

• 1 whole side of salmon (about 2–2.5 lbs), skin on
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: extra lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Prepare the Salmon
Place the salmon, skin side down, on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and rub evenly over the surface. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.

3. Add the Toppings
Arrange lemon slices over the salmon and sprinkle with fresh parsley and dill.

4. Roast
Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center.

5. Serve
Transfer to a serving platter, garnish with extra herbs and lemon wedges, and serve warm.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 280
Protein: 34g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Sugar: 0g
Fiber: 0g

Tips for Success

Don’t Overcook – Check for doneness early to keep the salmon moist and tender.
Use Fresh Herbs – Fresh dill and parsley give the dish its signature flavor.
Broil for a Minute – For a slightly crispy top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.

Why This Recipe Works

Roasting a whole side of salmon in the oven is not only easy but also helps the fish cook evenly while staying moist and flavorful. The combination of fresh lemon and herbs brightens the dish, making it a healthy yet luxurious option for any occasion.

This Roasted Whole Side of Salmon is a beautiful, flavorful dish that’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a nourishing, elegant meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it delivers both presentation and taste in one unforgettable dish.