Garlic Lime Salmon [baked with a spiced mayo spread]

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This garlic lime salmon with a creamy spiced mayo is the perfect easy baked salmon recipe for a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner.

baked salmon topped with garlic lime mayo

If you’re looking for a flavorful and fuss-free dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes, this garlic lime salmon is going to become one of your go-to meals. It’s the perfect balance of zesty citrus, warm spices, and creamy richness—all baked together to create tender, flaky salmon with a golden topping. Whether you’re new to cooking salmon or a seasoned home chef, this recipe makes it easy to get a restaurant-quality dish on the table with minimal effort.

What makes this recipe shine is its versatility. You only need simple ingredients—a fresh salmon fillet, some pantry spices, a few cloves garlic, and a couple of spoonfuls of mayo—to create an impressive meal. The lime juice and zest brighten up the richness of the fish, while the spiced mayo keeps everything moist and flavorful. It’s an easy salmon recipe that works equally well for a busy weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this easy baked salmon recipe. First, it’s quick: in just 20 minutes, you can have dinner on the table. Second, it’s customizable—you can use either lime or lemon, adjust the spice level to your taste, and even swap in Greek yogurt for mayo if you’d like something lighter.

This dish also delivers on both flavor and texture. The combination of oregano, paprika, and garlic gives the fish a savory, smoky depth, while the lime mayonnaise spread keeps the top of the salmon moist as it bakes. For an extra pop, you can finish it with a quick broil, giving it a slightly caramelized crust. Plus, this recipe is naturally low-carb, high in protein, and packed with omega-3s—making it not just delicious, but also nutritious.

ingredients in garlic lime mayo baked salmon

A Breakdown of the Ingredients

Here’s a closer look at what makes this recipe special:

Salmon fillet (1–1.5 lbs): The star of the dish. Choose fresh, high-quality salmon with the skin on. Keeping the salmon skin side down on your large rimmed baking sheet helps lock in moisture.
Oregano (1 tsp): Adds an herby, slightly earthy flavor that complements fish beautifully.
Paprika (1 tsp): Provides a subtle smokiness and depth. You can use smoked paprika if you prefer a bolder flavor.
Salt (½–1 tsp, to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural sweetness of the salmon.
Cloves garlic (2–3, minced): Garlic is key to that irresistible aroma and savory punch.
Mayonnaise (3–4 tbsp or about ¼ cup mayo): The base of the topping. It ensures the salmon stays moist while baking.
Fresh lime juice (juice of ½ lime): The acidity balances the richness of the fish. You can also add lime zest for extra brightness.
Olive oil (optional drizzle): Brushing a little oil onto the baking pan or parchment prevents sticking and adds a hint of richness.

Optional garnishes: lime slices or lime wedges for serving.

How to Make Garlic Lime Salmon

Preheat the oven – Set your oven to 400 degrees F (200°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
Prepare the salmon – Pat the piece of salmon dry with a paper towel. This step is important because excess moisture prevents browning.
Make the spice rub – In a small bowl, mix the oregano, paprika, and salt. Rub this mixture evenly over the pieces of fish.
Make the topping – In another small bowl, stir together the mayo, minced garlic, and fresh lime juice until smooth. This creates the creamy mayo mixture that will coat the fish.
Spread the topping – Evenly spread the lime-garlic mayo over the top of the salmon. Make sure it’s covered so it stays moist as it bakes.
Bake salmon – Transfer to the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes. The exact time depends on the thickness of your salmon. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Optional broil – For a golden crust, switch the oven to broil and cook for 1–2 minutes.
Serve – Remove from the oven, garnish with lime slices or lime wedges, and serve warm.

prepared salmon topped with spices and garlic lime mayo

Pair with These Sides

cucumber ribbons with ginger dressing — Cucumber RIbbons

How to Store the Recipe

If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 300°F until heated through, or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out the fish.

This recipe doesn’t freeze particularly well because the mayo spread can change texture, but if you want to prep ahead, you can season the raw salmon and refrigerate it covered for a few hours before baking.

Tips for Making Garlic Lime Salmon

Choose the right salmon: Thicker fillets tend to stay moister when baking.
Use parchment paper: It makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
Don’t skip patting dry: Removing excess moisture with a paper towel ensures the spice rub sticks better.
Check doneness carefully: Over-cooking salmon is the most common mistake. Use a thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Customize the flavors: Add cayenne for heat, swap lime for lemon, or sprinkle in some parsley for freshness.
Serve with sides: Roasted veggies, rice, or a fresh salad make perfect companions.

Final Thoughts

This oven-baked salmon is proof that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few minutes of prep, you’ll have a dish that’s bursting with flavor, packed with nutrition, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a quick family dinner or serving it at a gathering, this easy recipe is one you’ll return to again and again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes! Just thaw it completely, pat dry with a paper towel, and follow the recipe as written.

Do I need to remove the salmon skin?

No, bake with the salmon skin side down—it helps insulate the fish and makes it easier to lift from the pan.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt for mayo?

Yes, though the flavor will be tangier and slightly less rich. The mayo creates a creamier texture and golden crust.

How do I prevent my salmon from drying out?

Make sure not to over-bake. Check the internal temperature early, especially if your fillet is thin. The mayo mixture also helps lock in moisture.

Can I use other fish for this recipe?

Absolutely—this method works with cod, trout, or halibut. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your salmon or alternative fish.

What’s the best pan to use?

A large rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper works best for even cooking and easy cleanup.

More Seafood Recipes

cod fish tacos with cabbage slaw — Fish Tacos