Introduction
Looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that tastes like a gourmet meal? This Sheet Pan Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon is just what you need! With its rich and creamy garlic butter sauce, bright bursts of lemon, and perfectly roasted vegetables, it’s a delightful dish that comes together in a breeze. All cooked on a single pan, this recipe is as easy to make as it is to clean up. Prepare to enjoy a feast that’s both healthy and indulgent, sure to impress your family or guests!
Ingredients
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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) to get it nice and hot for roasting.
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to make cleanup a snap.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Place the salmon fillets on one side of the sheet pan and generously brush them with the garlic lemon butter mixture, letting that rich flavor soak in.
- On the other side of the sheet pan, arrange the trimmed asparagus and the halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle the remaining butter mixture over the vegetables, then sprinkle with a dash of salt and pepper.
- Top each salmon fillet with a slice of lemon, and don’t forget to scatter a few over the asparagus for that zesty touch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork while the veggies are tender and vibrant.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before digging in!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to swap out the asparagus for your favorite seasonal vegetables!
- Make sure to watch the salmon carefully; every oven is a bit different, so check for doneness around the 12-minute mark.
- If you love a bit of a spicy kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases simple yet effective cooking techniques. Roasting is a fantastic way to enhance the natural flavors of both the salmon and vegetables while requiring minimal active cooking time. The garlic lemon butter not only adds a luxurious richness but also serves as a marinade, infusing every bite with vibrant citrus and savory garlic notes.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen salmon? Yes! Be sure to thaw your salmon fillets completely before cooking for the best results.
- What should I serve with this dish? This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some fluffy rice to soak up the tasty juices.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? For best flavor, it’s recommended to prepare it fresh. However, you can pre-chop your veggies and make the garlic lemon butter ahead of time!
Conclusion
In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this delightful Sheet Pan Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon that’s sure to become a family favorite. With bright, fresh flavors and minimal cleanup, it’s perfect for busy evenings or when you want an effortless yet impressive meal. Enjoy each delicious bite and the compliments that will surely follow!