Simple Lemon–Salt–Pepper Salmon

This is one of those recipes that proves you don’t need a long ingredient list to make something truly excellent. With just fresh salmon, bright lemon, and a simple seasoning of salt and pepper, you get a clean, rich, and satisfying dish that feels elevated without any effort.

It’s naturally low in carbs, high in healthy fats, and packed with protein—perfect whether you’re eating keto, focusing on whole foods, or just want something quick that actually tastes good. The lemon cuts through the richness of the salmon, while the olive oil or butter brings everything together into a silky, restaurant-quality finish.

Ingredients (2 Servings)

• 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each) 

• 1–2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter 

• 1 lemon (zest optional, juice required) 

• Sea salt 

• Freshly cracked black pepper 

Optional but great: 

• Lemon slices for baking 

• Fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or chives) 

---

instructions

Prep the Salmon

• Pat salmon dry with a paper towel. 

• Place on a parchmentlined baking sheet or small baking dish. 

• Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter. 

Season Simply

• Sprinkle generously with sea salt. 

• Add a good amount of black pepper. 

• Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. 

• Add lemon zest if you want extra brightness. 

 Bake

• Preheat oven to 400°F. 

• Bake 10–12 minutes, depending on thickness.  

• Salmon should flake easily with a fork but still be moist. 

 Finish + Serve

• Add extra lemon juice or a few fresh lemon slices. 

• Top with herbs if you like. 

• Serve immediately. 

Serving Ideas

• Pair with your cabbage “noodles” in bacon grease. 

• Serve over arugula with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon. 

• Add a side of roasted carrots or sautéed onion. 

Notes on Variations (Important for Accuracy)

• Using butter instead of olive oil:
  Calories stay similar (~450–480), but saturated fat increases slightly.

• Using only 1 tbsp total oil (instead of per fillet):
  Drops calories to ~350–380 per serving.

• Adding herbs or lemon zest:
  Negligible impact on calories/macros.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

(Based on 6 oz salmon + 1 tbsp olive oil per fillet)

• Calories: ~460

• Protein: ~34g

• Fat: ~34g

  • Saturated Fat: ~5g

• Carbohydrates: ~1g

  • Fiber: 0g

  • Net Carbs: ~1g

• Sugar: 0g

• Cholesterol: ~95mg

• Sodium: Varies based on salt added (~300–500mg typical)

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: ~2,000–2,500mg