– **Title**: Easy Healthy Sheet Pan Salmon Dinner
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
– 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
– **Instructions**:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a large sheet pan, arrange the salmon fillets in the center. Surround them with the asparagus and cherry tomatoes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle the olive oil mixture over the salmon and vegetables, ensuring everything is well coated.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the vegetables are tender.
6. Once done, remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy your healthy sheet pan dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon Fillets: Fresh salmon is ideal for this recipe, but if you can’t find it, frozen salmon works well too. Just thaw it before cooking. Personal tip: I love using wild-caught salmon for its rich flavor!
Baby Potatoes: These are perfect for roasting since they get crispy on the outside. If you don’t have them, Yukon Gold or red potatoes are great substitutes. You can also use sweet potatoes for a different flavor.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus really shines in this dish. If it’s out of season, green beans or broccoli are great alternatives. I sometimes toss in whichever veggies I have on hand!
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and moisture. While extra virgin olive oil is my go-to, avocado oil is a good substitute, especially with high-heat cooking like this.
Lemon: Lemon adds brightness. If you don’t have fresh lemon, you can use lemon juice from a bottle, but fresh is always best for the flavor.
How Do I Ensure the Salmon is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking salmon just right can be tricky, but it’s quite simple! The key is to keep an eye on the timing and the texture of the fish.
- Look for salmon that flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- When adding it to the sheet pan, make sure it’s not overcrowded. This allows it to cook evenly.
- Cleaning your pan before serving can help prevent any sticking, so consider lining it with parchment paper!
Enjoy creating this yummy dinner that’s both healthy and stress-free!
Easy Healthy Sheet Pan Salmon Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 2 salmon fillets
- 2 cups baby potatoes, halved
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
For Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious sheet pan salmon dinner takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook! You’ll spend around 10 minutes getting everything ready and then bake it for about 25 minutes. Easy, healthy, and quick to clean up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is important for cooking your salmon and veggies evenly.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until the potatoes are well-coated with the seasonings.
3. Bake the Potatoes:
Spread the seasoned potatoes out in a single layer on a sheet pan. Pop them in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. This gives them a great start on the cooking process!
4. Add Salmon and Asparagus:
While the potatoes bake, prepare the salmon and asparagus. Place the salmon fillets on the sheet pan next to the potatoes. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the salmon and season it with salt and pepper. Top each fillet with a couple of lemon slices for added flavor.
5. Toss the Asparagus:
Add the trimmed asparagus to the sheet pan as well. Give it a light toss with some olive oil and season it with salt and pepper. This will enhance its flavor and ensure it cooks well!
6. Bake Together:
Return the sheet pan to the oven and bake everything together for another 10-12 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the vegetables are tender and lightly golden.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is cooked, take the sheet pan out of the oven. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the salmon and veggies. This adds a nice fresh touch. Serve your lovely salmon dinner warm and enjoy!
Enjoy your healthy and easy sheet pan salmon dinner!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but it’s best to thaw it first! Place the salmon in the refrigerator overnight or quickly thaw it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat it dry before seasoning, as excess moisture can prevent it from baking properly.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute?
If you don’t have asparagus, try using green beans, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts instead! Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly, as different vegetables may require more or less time to become tender.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel to keep the salmon moist, then heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
Can I Make This Recipe with Other Types of Fish?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other firm fish like trout, cod, or haddock. Just be mindful of cooking times, as different types of fish can vary in thickness and may require adjustments for doneness.
