This recipe is incredibly straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This makes cleanup a breeze and prevents the salmon from sticking. Parchment paper is generally preferred for its non-stick properties and eco-friendliness. Foil can also be used, but lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Salmon Fillets: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step as it helps the salmon skin crisp up (if using skin-on fillets) and allows the seasonings to adhere better. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them for even cooking.
3. Season the Salmon: Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the salmon fillets. Ensure each fillet is lightly coated. Then, sprinkle the minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, salt, and black pepper over the salmon. Distribute the seasonings evenly for maximum flavor in every bite. Gently rub the seasonings into the salmon fillets to ensure they adhere well.
4. Add Lemon Slices: Arrange the lemon slices over and around the salmon fillets. Place a few lemon slices directly on top of each fillet and scatter the rest around the baking sheet. The lemon will infuse the salmon with its bright citrusy flavor as it bakes and also help keep it moist.
5. Bake the Salmon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The exact baking time will depend on the thickness of your salmon fillets. Check for doneness around the 12-minute mark. The salmon is cooked when it is opaque and flakes easily when gently pressed with a fork. Avoid overbaking, as this can make the salmon dry. For thicker fillets, you might need to bake for a couple of minutes longer.
6. Check for Doneness: To check if the salmon is cooked through, gently flake it with a fork at the thickest part. If it flakes easily and is opaque throughout, it’s ready. If it’s still translucent or resists flaking, return it to the oven for another minute or two and check again.
7. Serve Immediately: Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the salmon rest for a minute or two before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful fillet. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the salmon just before eating.