Baked Salmon Lentils Lemon Sauce

Name: Baked Salmon Lentils Lemon Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lemon, sliced; 1 cup lentils, rinsed; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean Eating Recipes

This Baked Salmon Lentils Lemon Sauce is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of salmon with hearty lentils, all topped with a zesty lemon sauce.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-25T22:46:27.526Z

This dish is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The salmon is baked to perfection, while the lentils provide a nutritious base, making this meal both satisfying and delicious.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich flavor of baked salmon paired with nutritious lentils
Zesty lemon sauce adds a refreshing touch
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

      

Nutritional Benefits

This Baked Salmon Lentils Lemon Sauce dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for promoting heart health and reducing inflammation. Additionally, it provides high-quality protein, making it a great choice for muscle repair and growth. The lentils add a hearty component, rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.

Furthermore, lentils are a fantastic plant-based protein option, making them suitable for vegetarians and vegans when combined with alternative protein sources. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, and magnesium. This dish, therefore, not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body.

Perfect Pairings

This baked salmon and lentils dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that can elevate your meal. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the salmon and the earthiness of the lentils. Consider using leafy greens like arugula or spinach, topped with cherry tomatoes and cucumber for a refreshing crunch.

Additionally, roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts add a delightful char and enhance the overall flavor profile. You can also serve this dish with a side of quinoa or brown rice to round out the meal and add even more texture and nutrients.

Variations and Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences! You can experiment with different herbs in the lentils, such as rosemary or basil, to add varying flavors. For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon sauce, which will provide a delightful contrast to the dish's overall flavor.

If you’re short on time, you can use canned lentils instead of dried ones. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly. Also, for a more vibrant lemon sauce, try adding a splash of lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor. These small adjustments can make your dish unique and tailored to your liking.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lemon, sliced

For the Lentils

1 cup lentils, rinsed
3 cups vegetable broth
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon thyme

For the Lemon Sauce

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients well before cooking.

Instructions

Prepare the Lentils

In a pot, combine lentils, vegetable broth, chopped onion, diced carrots, minced garlic, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.

Bake the Salmon

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place salmon fillets in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Top with lemon slices and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until salmon is flaky.

Make the Lemon Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve

Once the lentils are cooked and the salmon is baked, plate the lentils and top with the salmon. Drizzle with lemon sauce before serving.

Enjoy your healthy and delicious meal!

Storage and Reheating

To store any leftovers, place the baked salmon and lentils in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them gently in the oven or microwave. Be sure to cover the dish with foil to retain moisture and prevent the salmon from drying out.

If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, consider preparing the lentils and lemon sauce in advance. You can bake the salmon fresh just before serving to ensure it remains flaky and tender.

Serving Suggestions

This Baked Salmon Lentils Lemon Sauce is versatile and can be served for various occasions. It works wonderfully as a healthy weeknight dinner, but it can also impress guests at a dinner party. To elevate your presentation, garnish the plated dish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill, which not only add color but also enhance the flavor.

For a complete dining experience, pair this meal with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity in the wine complements the lemon sauce beautifully and balances the richness of the salmon.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure it is fully thawed before baking.

→ What type of lentils should I use?

Green or brown lentils work best for this recipe.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

All the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, just check your Dijon mustard label to ensure it's gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can cook the lentils and salmon in advance, then reheat before serving.