Easy Lemon garlic salmon tray bake – easy & healthy in 30 mins!
Are you looking for a quick and nutritious dinner that bursts with flavor? Let me introduce you to this Lemon garlic salmon tray bake – easy & healthy! This delightful dish combines tender salmon fillets with fresh vegetables, all baked together in one pan for minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights, this sheet pan dinner takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, allowing you to enjoy a tasty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients & Kitchen Tools
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
– 3 garlic cloves (minced)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper (to taste)
– 1 cup of cherry tomatoes (halved)
– 1 cup of broccoli florets
– 1 cup of baby potatoes (halved)
– Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Kitchen Tools:
– Baking sheet or tray
– Mixing bowl
– Measuring spoons
– Sharp knife
– Cutting board
– Aluminum foil (optional for easier cleanup)
Prep & Cook Time
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your salmon and vegetables cook evenly.
2. Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Prepare the vegetables: On a large baking sheet, arrange the halved baby potatoes and broccoli florets. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Add the salmon: Create space in the center of the sheet for the salmon fillets. Place them skin-side down and pour the lemon-garlic marinade over the fish, making sure it’s well-coated.
5. Add tomatoes: Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the salmon. This adds a nice pop of color and flavor!
6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the veggies are tender.
7. Garnish and serve: Once cooked, remove the tray from the oven, and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutritional Benefits or Advantages
This Lemon garlic salmon tray bake is not only easy and healthy but also packed with nutrition! Salmon is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health. Combined with vibrant veggies like broccoli and cherry tomatoes, you’ll be loading up on essential vitamins and minerals. This meal provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, perfect for a wholesome dinner.
Tips, Variations, or Substitutions
– Vegetable Choices: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables such as bell peppers, asparagus, or zucchini based on your preference or what you have on hand.
– Flavor Boost: Add spices like paprika or dill for an extra kick of flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Overcooking the salmon: Keep an eye on your salmon; cooking times can vary based on thickness and your oven’s heat distribution. A meat thermometer should read 145°F (63°C) when done.
– Not preheating the oven: This can lead to uneven cooking; a preheated oven ensures everything cooks evenly.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for a minute or two or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain some crispiness.
Conclusion with Call-to-Action
Now that you have the recipe for this delightful Lemon garlic salmon tray bake – easy & healthy, why not give it a try? It’s the perfect sheet pan dinner for busy nights, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal with minimal effort. Don’t forget to share your cooking experience and any modifications you try in the comments below!
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
What can I serve with lemon garlic salmon?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, quinoa, or rice.
How long does it take to bake salmon at 400°F?
Typically, it takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
Can I make this meal ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the marinade and chop veggies a few hours in advance to save time on cooking day.
