Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Set aside a large rimmed baking sheet.

Mix the brown sugar, lemon zest, salt, and the smoked paprika in a small bowl.

Pat the salmon fillets dry and rub them with olive oil.

Scatter the brown sugar rub over the salmon, and gently massage it into the fish. Swipe the skin side of the salmon through any spice rub that’s fallen onto the cutting board. If you have the time, marinate the salmon for 10 to 15 minutes.

Add the salmon fillets, skin-side down, to the baking sheet.

Bake the salmon until it is cooked through, 12 to 15 minutes, depending on its thickness. We cook salmon until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 125°F.

Serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the salmon.