Healthy Salmon Bake

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Healthy Salmon Bake

Healthy Salmon Bake

This sheet pan salmon recipe transforms weeknight dinners with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Tender, flaky salmon roasts alongside crisp-tender vegetables in just 30 minutes, creating a complete healthy dinner with only one pan to clean. It’s an elegant yet approachable meal perfect for busy evenings or impromptu gatherings.

How to Make Sheet Pan Salmon

I first fell for this method during a hectic holiday season when time was precious but nourishment was paramount. The aroma of garlic and lemon mingling with roasting salmon and vegetables became my favorite winter ritual. I now serve this vibrant one pan meal alongside garlic parmesan smashed potatoes for cozy family dinners or with clove roasted carrots for special occasions. Its simplicity never compromises its elegance.

Why You’ll Love This Sheet Pan Salmon

  • Effortless Elegance: Impressive enough for guests but simple enough for Tuesday nights.
  • Minimal Cleanup: Everything cooks together on one pan for easy post dinner cleanup.
  • Perfectly Balanced: Flaky protein and roasted vegetables create a complete nutritious meal.
  • Quick Preparation: From prep to plate in 30 minutes for busy schedules.

What You Need for Perfect Sheet Pan Salmon

Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full listing of ingredients, instructions, notes, and estimated nutritional information.

  • Salmon fillet: Choose center-cut fillets of even thickness for uniform cooking.
  • Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps achieve crispy edges.
  • Kosher salt: Flaky salt adheres well and enhances the natural flavors.
  • Black pepper: Freshly ground pepper provides subtle heat and aroma.
  • Lemon: Thin slices roast into tender citrus ribbons atop the fish.
  • Asparagus: Trim woody ends to ensure tender spears that cook evenly.
  • Red bell pepper: Sweet peppers caramelize beautifully in the oven’s heat.
  • Red onion: Wedges soften and sweeten while roasting alongside the salmon.
  • Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the oil with aromatic flavor throughout.
  • Fresh dill: Chopped dill added at the end brightens the entire dish.

Easy sheet pan salmon

Sheet Pan Salmon

Make this easy sheet pan salmon dinner with vegetables in just 30 minutes. Perfectly roasted salmon with asparagus, bell peppers, and lemon for a healthy meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • oven
  • baking sheet
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • measuring spoons
  • mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

Fish and Seasonings

  • 1.5 pounds salmon fillet skin-on or skinless
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 1 lemon thinly sliced

Vegetables

  • 1 pound asparagus woody ends trimmed
  • 1 red bell pepper cut into 1-inch strips
  • 1 small red onion sliced into 1/2-inch wedges
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill chopped

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Pat the salmon fillet completely dry with paper towels, then brush both sides with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season evenly with salt and pepper.
  • Arrange the asparagus, bell pepper, and onion on the prepared baking sheet, drizzle with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, and toss with minced garlic until evenly coated.
  • Place the salmon fillet in the center of the sheet pan and arrange lemon slices over the top of the fish.
  • Roast for 12-15 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the vegetables are tender-crisp with lightly browned edges.
  • Remove from oven and sprinkle fresh dill over the salmon and vegetables before serving.

Notes

Pat the salmon dry for crispier skin. The vegetables should be tender-crisp.
Keyword healthy, salmon dinner, sheet pan salmon

Delicious Recipe Variations

  • Mediterranean Twist: Add kalamata olives and artichoke hearts with oregano.
  • Spicy Cajun: Rub salmon with Cajun seasoning and add andouille sausage.
  • Asian Inspiration: Use sesame oil and ginger with broccoli and snap peas.

My Pro Tips for Perfect Salmon

  • Dry Thoroughly: Pat salmon completely dry before oiling for crispier skin.
  • Even Cutting: Cut vegetables uniformly so they roast at the same rate.
  • Don’t Overcrowd: Spread ingredients in single layer for proper caramelization.
  • Check Doneness: Salmon is ready when it flakes gently with a fork.
Cozy Serving of Sheet Pan Salmon

Storing and Reheating Your Salmon

  • Store: Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 2 days, though best fresh.
  • Freeze: Freeze cooked salmon tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: Warm in 300°F oven for 10-12 minutes until heated through.
  • Make-Ahead Tip: Chop vegetables ahead and store refrigerated until ready to use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen salmon for sheet pan salmon?

Yes, but thaw it completely in the refrigerator first and pat it very dry. Frozen salmon releases more moisture, which can prevent proper browning and create steam instead of roast.

What other vegetables work well with sheet pan salmon?

Broccoli, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and carrots all roast beautifully. Try roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts for heartier options. Just ensure they’re cut to similar sizes for even cooking.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

Salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork but remains moist inside. The internal temperature should reach 145°F, and the flesh will change from translucent to opaque.

Can I make sheet pan salmon with skin on?

Absolutely. Salmon skin becomes deliciously crispy when roasted. Place it skin-side down on the pan, and ensure the skin is thoroughly dried before cooking for the crispiest result.

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Why This Sheet Pan Salmon Will Become Your Favorite

With its flaky, lemon-kissed salmon and perfectly roasted vegetables, this dish delivers restaurant quality with home kitchen simplicity. It transforms ordinary weeknights into something special without demanding extra time or effort. I hope this becomes your go to easy salmon recipe for those nights when nourishment and ease matter equally.