Introduction
Imagine a dinner that captures the brightness of lemon, the richness of butter, and the delicate flavor of fresh salmon—all made on a single sheet pan! This Sheet Pan Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon is not just a meal; it’s a culinary hug that’s quick to prepare, satisfying to eat, and easy to clean up. Whether you’re coaxing your family to share a meal or impressing friends, this dish serves up a burst of flavor with every bite, paired perfectly with tender asparagus.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 large lemon
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make clean-up a breeze.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined. The aroma will be absolutely heavenly!
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet, then generously brush them with the zesty garlic lemon butter mixture.
- Arrange the fresh asparagus around the salmon, creating a colorful and vibrant presentation. Drizzle any remaining garlic lemon butter over the asparagus for extra flavor.
- Pop the baking sheet into the oven and roast for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the salmon flakes beautifully with a fork and the asparagus is tender and bright green.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a lovely garnish. Serve with lemon wedges on the side to brighten each mouthful!
Notes or Tips
To elevate this dish, try swapping the asparagus for other seasonal vegetables like green beans or Brussels sprouts, depending on what you have on hand. For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture. Leftovers can be delightful in a salad the next day!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes the sheet pan cooking technique, which involves roasting multiple ingredients at once in the oven. This method not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The high heat helps the salmon develop a crispy exterior while keeping the interior juicy, while the asparagus cooks to a perfect tender-crisp consistency.
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, frozen salmon can be used! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even cooking and a perfect texture.
What should I serve with this dish?
This salmon pairs wonderfully with a light salad, warm crusty bread, or a side of rice for a complete meal. Feel free to get creative!
Conclusion
With its simple preparation, vibrant flavors, and a beautiful presentation, this Sheet Pan Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon is sure to become a weeknight favorite in your household. Enjoy the burst of freshness and the ease of cooking just one pan for dinner. Happy cooking!