BEST Baked Spicy Citrus Salmon
Baked Spicy Citrus Salmon is an easy weeknight full of flavor dinner that pairs well with any side.
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Servings: 3 fillets
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh salmon fillets
- 3 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F. Lightly grease or spray a baking tray. Once the oven is fully heated, place the baking tray inside to heat up—this helps achieve crispy skin.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with lemon, lime, and orange zest, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper.
- Wash and pat dry the salmon fillets, then carefully place them skin-side down on the hot baking tray. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
- Evenly spread the seasoned butter over the salmon, reserving 1 tablespoon for later.
- Bake for 14–18 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and spread the reserved tablespoon of butter over the top before serving.
Video
Notes
- Use Fresh Salmon: For the best flavor and texture, choose fresh, high-quality salmon fillets. Wild-caught salmon is often a great choice.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the salmon while it bakes. Overcooking can make it dry, so aim for a slightly flaky texture. It should be just opaque in the center.
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them entirely. You can also add more for a spicier kick!
- Crispy Skin: For extra crispy skin, make sure your baking sheet is hot before placing the salmon on it. You can also broil it for the last 1-2 minutes if you want even more crispiness!
- Serve with Sides: This salmon pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.