This baked salmon with roasted vegetables recipe is a quick, healthy, and flavorful weeknight dinner. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and offers a delicious and nutritious meal.
Table of contents
Why This Recipe Works: A Flavorful and Effortless Meal
Baking salmon is a fantastic way to create moist, tender fillets. The sheet pan method makes cleanup a breeze, minimizing the time I spend in the kitchen after a long day. I love how versatile this recipe is; you can easily swap out veggies based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Plus, the roasting process intensifies the flavors of both the salmon and vegetables creating a truly delightful dish.
Ingredients for Perfect Baked Salmon and Vegetables
This recipe calls for fresh, high-quality ingredients, which makes all the difference in achieving that restaurant-quality taste. I usually source my salmon from a local fishmonger in the Pacific Northwest, ensuring it’s the freshest possible.
- For the salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (approximately 150g each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh sprigs)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- For the roasted vegetables:
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into sticks
- 100g green beans, trimmed
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 3-4 small potatoes, cut into wedges
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Substitutions: Feel free to substitute your favorite vegetables. Green beans, zucchini, carrots, and Brussels sprouts all work wonderfully. If you don’t have fresh dill, you can use dried dill, but use about half the amount.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions: A Guide to Success
This recipe is as straightforward as it gets. Even beginner cooks can master this easy salmon and vegetable recipe. Proper preparation is key to achieving perfectly cooked salmon and tender vegetables.
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. - Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the carrots, green beans, bell peppers, and potato wedges.
- Drizzle with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
- Spread the vegetables in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Vegetables:
Place the vegetables in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. - Prepare the Salmon:
- While the vegetables are baking, pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
- Rub each fillet with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the Salmon to the Tray:
After the vegetables have baked for 15 minutes, remove the tray from the oven. Push the vegetables to the sides, leaving space in the center for the salmon fillets. - Bake Together:
Return the tray to the oven and bake for an additional 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through (internal temperature of 60°C/140°F) and the vegetables are tender. - Serve:
Plate the salmon with a generous serving of roasted vegetables on the side. Garnish with fresh thyme or a squeeze of lemon for added flavor.
Tip: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Perfectly Roasted Vegetables: Tips & Tricks
Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness. It is a critical step in the recipe and makes all the difference. For the best results:
- Cut vegetables evenly: This ensures everything cooks at the same rate.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: This allows for proper air circulation and prevents steaming.
- Season generously: Salt and pepper enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables.
- High heat Roasting: High heat intensifies the flavors and creates some nice caramelization.
Delicious Serving Suggestions & Recipe Variations
This healthy salmon recipe is incredibly versatile. I often serve it with a side of quinoa or brown rice for a complete and satisfying meal. A simple green salad would also complement the dish beautifully. Thinking about recipe variations? Here are a few ideas.
- Mediterranean twist: Add Kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vegetables.
- Different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley.
- Different types of salmon: Sockeye, king, or coho salmon will all work well.
This easy salmon dinner is adaptable to your tastes and what you have available.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
This baked salmon with roasted vegetables recipe is packed with nutrients. Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. The vegetables contribute essential vitamins and minerals. Accurate nutritional information will vary based on portion size and ingredient substitutions, but you can expect this dish to be a substantial amount of protein and numerous other beneficial nutrients.
More related recipes:
Looking for a wholesome, nutrient-packed dinner? Healthy Baked Salmon with Roasted Vegetables is the perfect option. Explore more healthy and delicious salmon recipes by visiting our guide to 7 delicious cooked salmon recipes, offering a variety of salmon dishes that are perfect for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How long does it take to bake the salmon and vegetables?
A: The cooking time is approximately 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C), but it may vary based on the thickness of the salmon fillets and your oven. Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the salmon is cooked through.
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A: While I recommend using fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen vegetables. However, make sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the baking sheet. You might need to adjust the cooking time, as frozen vegetables usually take longer to roast.
Q: What should I do with leftovers?
A: Leftovers are great! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or oven.
This baked salmon with roasted vegetables recipe is a delicious and healthy dinner option that’s quick and easy to make. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do! This baked salmon with roasted vegetables makes a perfect healthy dinner. “
Perfectly Baked Salmon
So, you wanna nail that salmon? It’s easier than you think. Think juicy, flaky perfection, not dry, sad fillets. Here’s how:
- Don’t overcook it: The biggest mistake? Overcooking. Use a meat thermometer (aim for 145°F/63°C internal temperature) to avoid that rubbery texture.
- Skin-on or skin-off?: I prefer skin-on salmon; it adds flavor and keeps the fillet moist during baking. But skin-off works too!
- Prep is key: Pat the salmon dry before seasoning; this helps it crisp up nicely.
- Oil is your friend: A light drizzle of olive oil helps keep the salmon moist and adds flavor.
Roasted Veggie Power-Ups: Beyond the Basics
We’re not just throwing veggies on a pan here. We are maximizing flavor!
- Variety is the spice of life: Don’t limit yourself to asparagus and broccoli. Get creative! Think bell peppers, zucchini, Brussels sprouts, or even sweet potatoes. It’s all about flavor and color.
- Seasoning is everything: Don’t underestimate the power of salt, pepper, and herbs. Herbs de Provence is a great choice, but experiment! Rosemary, thyme, and dill all work beautifully.
- Even cooking is key: Make sure your vegetables are roughly the same size to ensure even roasting.
Sheet Pan Salmon: The Ultimate Time Saver
Life’s too short for complicated recipes. This sheet pan baked salmon with roasted vegetables method is all about efficiency.
- One pan, less mess: It’s seriously the easiest clean-up ever. Seriously!
- Even cooking: The veggies and salmon cook together beautifully on one sheet, ensuring everything’s perfectly cooked.
- Temperature control: Preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) is key for even cooking.
Taking Your Salmon Game to the Next Level: Recipe Tweaks
Want to elevate this salmon and vegetable recipe? Let’s get creative:
- Mediterranean flair: Add Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a vibrant Mediterranean twist. Think Ina Garten level delicious.
- Spice things up: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a delightful kick.
- Citrus burst: A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens up the whole dish, adding a fresh zing.
- Different types of salmon: Experiment with sockeye, king, or coho salmon – depending on availability and preference. Pacific Northwest salmon is always a great choice. Mentioning Gordon Ramsay’s methods would help too.
Serving it Up: Beyond the Plate
This healthy salmon recipe is so versatile! It’s a complete meal on its own, but you can easily add sides:
- Brown rice
- Quinoa
- A simple green salad
More Questions
Q: Can I bake this for two? A: Absolutely! Just halve the recipe.
Q: What about leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They reheat beautifully in the microwave or oven.
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables? A: Yes, but thaw them completely first; otherwise, your cooking time will be longer.
Q: How do I know when my salmon is done? A: Use a meat thermometer! 145°F (63°C) internal temperature is perfect.
This baked salmon with roasted vegetables recipe is a delicious, healthy, and incredibly easy weeknight dinner. It offers a balanced meal providing nutrition from both protein and vegetables, making it a perfect option for health-conscious individuals. This baked salmon with roasted vegetables recipe is your new go-to. “