Introduction
Welcome to a delightful evening filled with the enticing aromas of garlic and lemon! This Sheet Pan Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you’re looking to impress guests without a lot of fuss. With golden brown salmon fillets and tender asparagus, this dish not only tastes amazing but also brings a splash of color to your dinner table. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the salmon fillets on one side of the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle generously with salt and black pepper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh parsley (and thyme if you’re using it) until well combined.
- Pour the zesty garlic lemon butter mixture evenly over the salmon fillets, letting it soak in for maximum flavor.
- On the other side of the baking sheet, arrange the trimmed asparagus in a single layer. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the asparagus is perfectly tender.
- Serve your delicious salmon and asparagus with fresh lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of brightness.
Notes or Tips
For optimal flavor, feel free to let the salmon marinate in the garlic lemon butter for 30 minutes before baking. Additionally, you can swap out asparagus for your favorite vegetables, such as green beans or broccoli, depending on what you have on hand. Just make sure they are trimmed evenly for uniform cooking!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes the sheet pan method, which is a fantastic technique for busy cooks. It’s all about layering flavors and making clean-up easy. The high heat allows the salmon to cook quickly while the butter and garlic create a rich sauce that permeates every bite. Plus, using parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze — just toss it out when you’re done!
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking, as cooking from frozen may affect the cooking time and texture.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). You want it to be moist and tender!
Conclusion
This Sheet Pan Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the vibrant flavors of the ocean to your dining table. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with freshness—making it a go-to dish for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to a delightful feast that is sure to impress!