Description
This Sheet Pan Salmon and Asparagus recipe is an effortless, healthy dinner featuring tender salmon fillets and crisp-tender asparagus roasted together with fresh lemon, garlic, and aromatic herbs. Ready in about 25 minutes, this meal offers minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or a simple yet elegant dinner.
Ingredients
Salmon and Asparagus
- 4 salmon fillets, about 6 oz each
- 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
Seasoning and Garnish
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large sheet pan with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Prepare Asparagus: Arrange the trimmed asparagus on one side of the sheet pan. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with half of the minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently to coat evenly and spread in a single layer.
- Roast Asparagus: Place the sheet pan with asparagus into the oven and roast for 5 minutes to begin tenderizing the vegetables.
- Season Salmon: While the asparagus roasts, pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush each fillet with the remaining olive oil, then evenly coat with the remaining garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and pepper for vibrant flavor.
- Add Salmon to Pan: Remove the sheet pan from the oven and position the salmon fillets among the partially roasted asparagus. Arrange lemon slices around the salmon for additional brightness during cooking.
- Roast Together: Return the sheet pan to the oven and roast for 10 to 14 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the salmon and asparagus, and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over.
Notes
- Thicker salmon fillets may require a few extra minutes in the oven to cook through fully.
- For added flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the asparagus before roasting.
- Feel free to add cherry tomatoes or thinly sliced zucchini to the sheet pan for additional vegetable variety.
- Avoid overcooking the salmon to keep it moist and flaky.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with sides such as rice, quinoa, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Dinner, Seafood, Sheet Pan Meals
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean-Inspired
