Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that feels like a special occasion, this sheet pan garlic lemon butter salmon is just the ticket! With succulent salmon fillets paired with tender asparagus, all drizzled in a rich garlic lemon butter sauce, this dish is bursting with flavor and takes only one pan to prepare. It’s the perfect combination of ease and elegance, making it a go-to recipe for busy evenings.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 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: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Place the salmon fillets on a large sheet pan and artfully arrange the asparagus around them.
- Pour the luscious garlic lemon butter mixture over the salmon and asparagus, making sure everything is generously coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, while the asparagus becomes tender yet still crisp.
- Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh parsley and a few wedges of lemon for a bright, zesty pop right before serving.
Notes or Tips
This dish is incredibly versatile! If you’re not a fan of asparagus, feel free to substitute it with your favorite green vegetables, such as green beans or broccoli. Additionally, for a hint of spice, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top before baking. Don’t forget to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your salmon fillets!
Cooking Techniques
The sheet pan method is a fantastic cooking technique for not only saving time and effort but also allowing the ingredients to cook uniformly. The combination of the salmon and asparagus allows the flavors to mingle beautifully, and using a single pan means less clean-up afterward! To achieve perfectly cooked salmon, it’s crucial to monitor the cooking time closely; overcooked salmon can become dry. Trust your senses—when the salmon is golden brown and flakes easily, you know it’s done!
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets! Just be sure to thaw them completely before preparing, as this will help them cook evenly.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the garlic lemon butter mixture and marinate the salmon for up to an hour before baking. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook!
Conclusion
This sheet pan garlic lemon butter salmon is not just a meal; it’s an experience—a simple yet delightful culinary adventure that brings joy to your table. With its bright flavors and easy preparation, it has all the elements of a family favorite. Gather your loved ones, serve it with a side of warm crusty bread or a leafy green salad, and relish in the compliments that are sure to follow. Enjoy every delicious bite!