I still remember the first time I made this Slow Roasted Salmon with Citrus Salsa Verde Recipe. I was honestly surprised by how something so simple could taste so elegant. The salmon turned out buttery and soft, and the bright citrus-herb sauce completely elevated it.

I love how the slow roasting makes it almost impossible to overcook. Now it’s one of my favorite dishes when I want something healthy but impressive without too much effort.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need, along with helpful tips for the best results:

• 2–3 pounds fresh salmon fillet – Choose a center-cut piece for even cooking. Skin-on works beautifully for moisture retention.
• 2 lemons, zested and juiced – Always zest before juicing; fresh lemons give the brightest flavor.
• 2 oranges, zested and juiced – Adds sweetness that balances the acidity of the lemon.
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced – Slice very thin so it softens nicely while roasting.
• 1 garlic clove, finely grated – Freshly grated garlic gives better aroma than pre-minced.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds subtle smokiness and depth.
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped – Brings brightness and freshness to the salsa verde.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped – Adds balance and classic herb flavor.
• 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil – Use high-quality olive oil since it forms the base of the sauce.
• Salt, to taste – Enhances all the flavors and seasons the salmon properly.

Note: This quantity comfortably serves 4–6 people depending on portion size.

Variations

If you’d like to customize this recipe, here are some great options:

• Dairy-free: The recipe is naturally dairy-free, so no substitutions are needed.
• Herb alternatives: Swap cilantro for dill or basil if you prefer a different herb flavor.
• Extra heat: Add a pinch of red chili flakes for subtle spice.
• Citrus swap: Add lime or grapefruit zest for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Lighter oil option: You can reduce olive oil slightly for a lighter sauce, but keep enough for richness.

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30–45 minutes
• Total Time: About 50–60 minutes

Equipment You Need

• Baking dish – Holds the salmon and citrus mixture while roasting.
• Mixing bowls – For combining citrus juices and preparing salsa verde.
• Microplane or zester – Helps extract fine citrus zest easily.
• Sharp knife – For slicing onions and chopping herbs finely.
• Cutting board – Keeps prep organized and clean.
• Measuring spoons and cups – Ensures accurate ingredient quantities.

How to Make Slow Roasted Salmon with Citrus Salsa Verde Recipe?

Slow roasting is the key to tender, silky salmon. Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time.

Prepare the Citrus Base

Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). In a bowl, combine half of the citrus zest and juice with a few tablespoons of olive oil and the sliced red onion. This mixture will gently flavor the salmon while it cooks.

Season the Salmon

Place the salmon in your baking dish and season it evenly with salt. Pour the citrus and onion mixture over the fish, making sure it is well coated. The low oven temperature ensures the fish cooks evenly and stays moist.

Slow Roast the Salmon

Transfer the baking dish to the oven and roast for 30–45 minutes. The salmon should look opaque and flake easily with a fork when done. Slow roasting prevents dryness and gives the fish a soft, luxurious texture.

Make the Citrus Salsa Verde

While the salmon is roasting, combine the remaining citrus zest and juice with olive oil, grated garlic, and smoked paprika. Stir well, then fold in the chopped cilantro and parsley just before serving to keep the herbs fresh and vibrant.

Assemble and Serve

Once the salmon is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest briefly. Spoon the citrus salsa verde generously over the top. The bright green herbs and citrus make the dish visually stunning and full of flavor.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

After making this recipe several times, here are a few personal tips I always follow:

• I always bring the salmon to room temperature before roasting for even cooking.
• I don’t skip the zest — it adds much more flavor than juice alone.
• I use freshly chopped herbs at the last minute so the sauce stays vibrant.
• I check the internal temperature; around 125–130°F gives me perfectly tender salmon.
• I let the salmon rest for 5 minutes before serving so the juices redistribute.

How to Serve Slow Roasted Salmon with Citrus Salsa Verde Recipe?

This salmon looks beautiful when served on a large platter. I like to spoon extra salsa verde on top and garnish with fresh herb sprigs and thin citrus slices for presentation.

It pairs wonderfully with:

• Fluffy herb rice or couscous
• Roasted asparagus or green beans
• Light mixed greens salad
• Crispy roasted potatoes
• Warm crusty bread to soak up the citrus juices.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: About 395 kcal
• Protein: Around 35 grams
• Carbohydrates: About 8 grams
• Fat: Approximately 24 grams

This dish is rich in healthy fats from salmon and olive oil, making it both satisfying and nutritious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the salsa verde separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months, though the texture may change slightly after thawing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a 275°F oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid high heat, as it can dry out the fish. You can also enjoy leftovers cold in salads or sandwiches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This recipe is simple yet impressive, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

• Easy to Prepare: Minimal prep and simple ingredients make it beginner-friendly.
• Foolproof Texture: Slow roasting ensures tender, juicy salmon every time.
• Fresh and Bright Flavor: The citrus salsa verde adds vibrant, refreshing notes.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and heart-healthy fats.
• Versatile Serving Ideas: Works with many side dishes and even tastes great the next day.