Braised Salmon Recipe with Herbs and Lemon – Healthy, Simple, Delicious

Salmon is one of those special ingredients that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds. It’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high in protein, and naturally flavorful. But if you’ve ever worried about overcooking salmon or ending up with dry, tough fish, braising is the answer.

This recipe for Braised Salmon with Herbs and Lemon is not just healthy — it’s simple to prepare and irresistibly delicious. The gentle cooking method keeps the salmon moist and flaky, while fresh herbs and zesty lemon add layers of bright, fragrant flavor. The best part? You can have it on the table in less than 30 minutes.

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Why Braising Works Perfectly for Salmon

Braising is a slow, gentle cooking technique where food simmers in a small amount of liquid. For salmon, it’s magic because:

• It locks in moisture so the fish stays tender.
• It infuses flavor from the broth, herbs, and citrus.
• It’s forgiving — even beginners can get perfect results without stress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things light, fresh, and healthy, with ingredients you might already have in your kitchen.

Serves 4

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin on or off)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced (plus extra juice for serving)
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or parsley, thyme, or basil)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

01. Season the Salmon

Pat salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle both sides with salt and black pepper. This step helps seal in flavor right from the start.

02. Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onion and cook for about 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds — just until it releases its aroma.

03. Add Liquid and Flavor

Pour in the broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Lay the lemon slices over the top and scatter fresh herbs into the liquid. The lemon will brighten the dish while the herbs add depth.

04. Braise the Salmon

Carefully place the salmon fillets into the skillet, skin side down if using. Spoon some of the hot, herb-infused liquid over each piece. Cover with a lid and cook for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork.

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05. Serve and Enjoy

Gently transfer salmon to plates, topping each piece with lemon slices and a drizzle of the cooking liquid. Add extra fresh herbs for a burst of color and flavor.

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Tips for Perfect Braised Salmon with Herbs and Lemon

• Keep the simmer gentle – Boiling can toughen the fish, so low and slow is best.
• Fresh herbs make a difference – Dill, parsley, or basil each give a unique flavor twist.
• Don’t overcook – Start checking at 8 minutes; salmon should be opaque but still moist.
• Add variety – Try adding a splash of white wine or a handful of cherry tomatoes for extra flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish isn’t just delicious — it’s a triple win:

• Healthy: Packed with heart-healthy omega-3s and low in unhealthy fats.
• Simple: No complicated steps, perfect for any skill level.
• Delicious: Bright citrus and fragrant herbs make every bite mouthwatering.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your braised salmon with sides that soak up the flavorful liquid, such as:

• Fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa
• Lightly roasted baby potatoes
• Steamed asparagus, broccoli, or green beans
• A crisp garden salad with lemon vinaigrette

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 8–10 minutes, adding a splash of broth to keep the salmon moist.

Summary

This blog shares a quick, 30-minute recipe for braised salmon with herbs and lemon, a healthy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any skill level. Braising gently simmers salmon in broth with lemon slices and fresh herbs, keeping it tender, juicy, and infused with bright, fresh flavors.

The recipe uses simple ingredients like salmon fillets, olive oil, onion, garlic, broth, lemon, and dill or parsley. Steps include seasoning the salmon, sautéing aromatics, adding the liquid and herbs, gently cooking the fish, and serving with the fragrant sauce.

FAQs about Braised Salmon