Introduction
Are you looking for a quick and delightful meal that bursts with flavor? Look no further than this Sheet Pan Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon! This dish marries tender salmon fillets with a luscious garlic butter sauce, brightened by the zesty freshness of lemon. And the best part? It all comes together on one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Let’s dive into this easy yet elegant dinner that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using asparagus)
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 for easy cleanup.
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with minced garlic, dried parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper, stirring until well mixed.
- Place the salmon fillets in the center of the prepared baking sheet. Layer thin slices of lemon on top of each fillet for a burst of citrus flavor.
- If you’re adding asparagus, arrange the trimmed spears around the salmon on the baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus and season with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
- Generously brush the garlic butter mixture over both the salmon fillets and asparagus, ensuring every bite is packed with yummy goodness.
- Bake in your preheated oven for approximately 12-15 minutes. The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach your desired level of doneness.
- Once cooked, garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
Notes or Tips
For an extra flair, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture if you like a bit of heat. This recipe is versatile—swap out asparagus for your favorite vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a delightful twist!
Cooking Techniques
Sheet pan cooking is a wonderful technique that saves time and minimizes the effort in the kitchen. By roasting the salmon and vegetables together, you’ll develop a rich, caramelized flavor in each bite. Plus, lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only makes for easy cleanup but also prevents the salmon from sticking and ensures perfectly cooked fillets every time.
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe? Yes! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for asparagus? You can use any seasonal vegetables you enjoy! Bell peppers, zucchini, or even cherry tomatoes would work beautifully alongside the salmon.
How do I know when the salmon is done? The salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has turned a light pink color on the inside.
Conclusion
This Sheet Pan Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon is a delightful, healthy option that promises a quick dinner filled with delicious flavors. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a meal that not only pleases the palate but also makes a pretty presentation. So gather your ingredients and let the aroma of lemon and garlic fill your kitchen. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!