Sheet Pan Garlic Lemon Salmon
Introduction
Sheet Pan Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon Recipe
Salmon is a versatile, delicious, and healthy protein choice that makes for a great quick-and-easy weeknight dinner. This Sheet Pan Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon recipe is an excellent option for anyone who loves mouthwatering flavors but wants a hassle-free meal prep process. The combination of fresh salmon, zesty lemon, hearty vegetables, and a luscious garlic butter sauce will leave you craving more. It’s the perfect way to bring vibrancy to your dinner table with minimal effort.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
What You’ll Need for This Recipe
– Fresh salmon fillets (about 1.5 lbs)
– Lemon juice (3 tablespoons)
– Minced garlic cloves (4 cloves)
– Unsalted butter, melted (4 tablespoons)
– Olive oil (1 tablespoon)
– Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
– Salt (to taste)
– Optional red pepper flakes (for added spice)
– Assorted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes (about 3 cups in total)
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Prep Time
Quick and Easy Preparations for Delicious Results
The setup for your Sheet Pan Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon is as simple as the dish’s flavor is scrumptious. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. Next, arrange the salmon fillets and vegetables on a large sheet pan. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables, ensuring they’re evenly coated. In a small bowl, mix together the lemon juice, melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper; this flavorful sauce will coat your salmon and leave it bursting with bright, savory flavors. Pour the sauce over the salmon and spread it gently using a spoon to ensure an even coat. If using red pepper flakes for some heat, sprinkle them lightly over the salmon.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
From Oven to Table in No Time
The cooking process for this salmon dish is equally speedy. Slide the sheet pan into the preheated oven and roast for roughly 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily when tested with a fork. If you prefer a golden, caramelized surface on your fish, set your oven to broil for the last 2 to 3 minutes. Once your meal is ready, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for a minute or two before garnishing with fresh parsley or dill.
The total time required from start to finish for this recipe is only about 25 to 30 minutes, including prep and cooking time. This dish yields approximately 4 servings, making it the perfect choice for a family dinner or meal prep solution for the week.
Enjoy the harmonious combination of vibrant flavors in this Sheet Pan Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon and garnish your plate with freshness and simplicity. Bon appétit!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and dry the baby potatoes. Halve or quarter them, depending on their size, ensuring even cooking. Place the potatoes onto the prepared baking sheet.
Drizzle the potatoes with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat them evenly. Arrange them cut-side down on the baking sheet and roast them for 15 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Salmon
While the potatoes are roasting, prepare the salmon. Place the salmon filets skin-side down on a plate or work surface.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture well to combine.
Step 5: Add Salmon to the Pan
After the potatoes have roasted for 15 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Push the potatoes to the sides to make space in the center for the salmon fillets. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the baking sheet.
Step 6: Add Asparagus to the Pan
Trim the woody ends off the asparagus spears and add them to the baking sheet alongside the salmon and potatoes. Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper as desired.
Step 7: Pour the Sauce Over the Salmon
Using a spoon, pour the garlic lemon butter sauce generously over the salmon fillets, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Step 8: Roast the Salmon and Vegetables
Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast everything for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the asparagus is tender-crisp.
Step 9: Optional Broiling
If desired, broil the pan on high for 2 to 3 minutes at the end of cooking to add a golden color to the salmon and crisp up the potatoes slightly. Keep a close eye on the broiler to prevent burning.
Step 10: Serve
Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Garnish the salmon, potatoes, and asparagus with additional chopped parsley and lemon slices if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Note on Cooking Times
The salmon cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the filets. For thicker filets, you may need to add 1-2 minutes of cooking time.
Note on Substituting Vegetables
Feel free to substitute the asparagus and baby potatoes with other vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots. Adjust roasting times as needed for the chosen vegetables.
Note on Meal Prep
This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
Note on Skin-on vs. Skinless Salmon
This recipe works well with either skin-on or skinless salmon. The skin helps keep the fish moist but can be removed after cooking if preferred.
Note on Flavor Additions
For additional flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of paprika or red pepper flakes to the garlic lemon butter sauce for a touch of heat.
Cook Techniques
Use a Sheet Pan for Easy Cleanup
Cooking the salmon and vegetables together on a single sheet pan simplifies cleanup and ensures all the flavors meld together beautifully.
Line the Sheet Pan with Foil
Lining the sheet pan with aluminum foil prevents food from sticking and minimizes cleanup after cooking.
Brush the Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce
Prepare a garlic lemon butter sauce and generously brush it over the salmon before baking for ultimate flavor infusion.
Arrange Vegetables Around the Salmon
Spread the vegetables around the salmon on the sheet pan, ensuring everything cooks evenly and absorbs the lemon butter seasoning.
Cook in a Preheated Oven
Bake the salmon and vegetables in a preheated oven, ensuring consistent heat and optimal cooking results.
FAQ
What Type of Salmon Should I Use?
Fresh salmon fillets work best for this recipe. You can use wild-caught or farm-raised, depending on your preference and availability.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the salmon in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking.
How Long Should I Cook the Salmon?
Cook the salmon for about 15 minutes, or until it is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Can I Use Other Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to swap in other vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, or zucchini, depending on your preference.
How Do I Know When the Salmon Is Done?
The salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and can be flaked easily with a fork.
Can I Double the Recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe by using a second sheet pan to accommodate the additional salmon and vegetables.
Is This Recipe Suitable for Meal Prep?
Yes, it is great for meal prep. Store the cooked salmon and vegetables in airtight containers in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.
Can I Add More Seasonings?
Absolutely, you can adjust the seasonings to your taste. Consider adding paprika, dill, or parsley for extra flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
This Sheet Pan Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon recipe is a delicious, easy, and wholesome meal that comes together seamlessly. Perfectly moist and flaky salmon, combined with vibrant vegetables, all infused with the zesty flavors of garlic and lemon, make this a family favorite. With minimal prep and cleanup, this dish is an ideal go-to dinner option for busy weeknights or any occasion where you want maximum flavor with little effort. The balance of nutrients and flavors ensures a satisfying dining experience for everyone.
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