BAKED LEMON SALMON WITH HERBED BULGUR

A simple yet flavorful dish featuring tender baked salmon infused with fresh lemon and paired with a fragrant bulgur salad tossed with fresh herbs. Light, healthy, and perfect for a quick dinner or a casual gathering.

🕒 Prep Time: 10 min

🍳 Cook Time: 20 min
🍽️ Yields: 3 servings
🔥 Approximate Calories: 350 per serving

Ingredients

For the Baked Salmon:

2 salmon fillets (approx. 150 g each)
¼ large organic lemon
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt, to taste

For the Herbed Bulgur:

100 g coarse bulgur wheat
3-4 sprigs fresh dill
2-3 sprigs fresh parsley
2 stalks young green onions
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Bake the Salmon

Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
Place the salmon fillets in a small, oven-safe non-stick dish just large enough to hold the fish.
Sprinkle salt evenly over the salmon and drizzle with olive oil.
Zest the lemon peel from the ¼ lemon and set aside for later.
Slice the remaining lemon into thin rounds and arrange the slices around and on top of the salmon.
Bake for 20 minutes for a medium, juicy finish. For those who prefer it rarer, bake for 12-15 minutes. (This time we tried 20 minutes to suit most preferences.)

2. Prepare the Bulgur

While the salmon bakes, bring salted water to a boil and cook the bulgur for about 10 minutes, or until tender.
Drain the bulgur well and season lightly with salt.

3. Mix the Herb Sauce

Finely chop dill, parsley, and green onions.
When the salmon is done, remove the baking dish from the oven and quickly transfer the fillets onto a plate, leaving the juices and baked lemon slices in the dish.
Add the chopped herbs to the hot pan juices and stir gently to release their aroma.

4. Combine and Serve

Add the cooked bulgur and lemon zest to the herb-infused juices. Mix gently and taste for salt adjustments.
Spread the bulgur mixture on a serving platter.
Flake the skinless salmon fillets into large chunks and scatter over the bulgur.
Serve immediately, or enjoy at room temperature.

💡 Tips

Using fresh lemon zest brightens the bulgur and ties the flavors together.
Adjust the baking time of the salmon to your preferred doneness.
This dish works well for meal prep as it tastes great warm or at room temperature.
Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

🎉 Perfect For

Quick and healthy weeknight dinners
Light lunches or casual meals
Mediterranean-inspired menus

📝 Final Thoughts

This baked lemon salmon paired with fresh herbed bulgur is a deliciously simple and nutritious dish that highlights fresh ingredients and clean flavors. Easy to prepare and satisfying, it’s ideal for those seeking a wholesome meal with minimal fuss and maximum taste.