Looking for a quick, flavorful, and nutritious meal? This Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus recipe is a game-changer! Perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend dinner, it’s packed with fresh flavors and requires minimal cleanup. With the salmon marinated in zesty lemon and garlic, paired with tender asparagus, this meal is both healthy and delicious.
Why You’ll Love this Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus:
- Effortless: It’s a one-pan dish, so cleanup is a breeze.
- Healthy: Packed with omega-3s from the salmon and fiber from the asparagus.
- Flavorful: The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs infuses the salmon and vegetables with amazing flavor.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences.
Ingredients for Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus:
- Salmon fillets: Rich in healthy fats and protein, salmon is the star of this dish, providing a tender and flavorful base.
- Asparagus: A great source of fiber and vitamins, it pairs beautifully with salmon and soaks up all the delicious garlic and lemon.
- Olive oil: Helps to roast the vegetables and salmon, adding richness and flavor.
- Lemon: Adds a fresh, citrusy punch that brightens up the dish.
- Garlic: Gives a savory, aromatic flavor that complements the salmon and asparagus.
- Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary): These herbs enhance the natural flavors of the salmon and vegetables.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.
Variations:
- Swap the asparagus for other vegetables: Try broccoli, green beans, or brussels sprouts for a different twist.
- Use different fish: You can replace salmon with cod, trout, or even chicken breasts.
- Add a glaze: For a touch of sweetness, brush the salmon with a honey mustard glaze or balsamic vinegar before baking.
- Add spice: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or paprika on the salmon for an extra kick of heat.
How to Make Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the prepared sheet pan and brush with the lemon garlic marinade. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Prepare the asparagus: Trim the ends of the asparagus and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange it around the salmon on the sheet pan.
- Bake: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the asparagus is tender.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh lemon slices and herbs if desired.
Tips and Tricks:
- Don’t overcook the salmon: Keep an eye on the fish. Once it flakes easily with a fork, it’s done.
- Use parchment paper or foil: This helps with cleanup and prevents the salmon from sticking.
- Customize the marinade: If you prefer a richer flavor, add Dijon mustard or honey to the marinade.
- Room temperature ingredients: Let the salmon come to room temperature before cooking for more even cooking.
How to Serve:
- Side dishes: Serve with roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Sauce: A dollop of creamy tzatziki or a drizzle of lemon butter sauce pairs wonderfully with this dish.
- Wine pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the light, zesty flavors of the salmon and asparagus.
Make Ahead and Storage:
- Make Ahead: You can marinate the salmon and prepare the asparagus the night before. Keep everything covered in the fridge and roast it when you’re ready to cook.
- Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the salmon and asparagus in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.
Can I use other vegetables instead of asparagus?
Absolutely! Try broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini for different flavors and textures.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked?
When the salmon flakes easily with a fork, it’s done. If you have a food thermometer, it should reach 145°F (63°C) in the center.
Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus Recipe
Course: DinnerDifficulty: EasyServings
4
servingsPrep time
10
minutesCooking time
20
minutesCalories
280
kcalIngredients
4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
1 lb asparagus, trimmed
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
2 teaspoons lemon zest
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
Lemon slices and fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. - Prepare the Asparagus
In a mixing bowl, toss 1 lb of trimmed asparagus with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on one side of the baking sheet. - Prepare the Salmon Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together:
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons lemon zest
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper - Season the Salmon
Place the 4 salmon fillets skin-side down on the other side of the baking sheet. Brush the marinade generously over the salmon fillets. - Roast the Salmon and Asparagus
Roast in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through (145°F internal temperature) and the asparagus is tender and slightly charred. - (Optional) Garnish
Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out the salmon.
