This Baked Lemon Herb Salmon with Vegetables recipe is a simple yet elegant meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The salmon is tender and flaky, infused with fresh lemon and herb flavors, and paired with a medley of roasted vegetables for a nutritious and satisfying dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Nutrient-Packed: This recipe is rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins from the salmon and vegetables.
- Simple and Quick: It’s easy to prepare and takes minimal time, making it ideal for busy schedules.
- Versatile: You can customize the vegetables or herbs to suit your preferences or what’s in season.
- Perfect for All Occasions: Whether you’re hosting a dinner or enjoying a quiet family meal, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
- Fresh lemon juice and lemon zest
- Olive oil
- Fresh herbs (such as dill, parsley, or thyme)
- Garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper
- Mixed vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus)
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Prepare the salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet, skin side down. Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, and sprinkle with lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Top with fresh herbs.
- Arrange the vegetables: Surround the salmon with your choice of mixed vegetables. Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat evenly.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized.
- Serve: Plate the salmon and roasted vegetables, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
- Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Variations
- Different Fish: Swap salmon with another firm fish like trout or cod.
- Vegetable Mix: Use seasonal vegetables or your favorites, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or broccoli.
- Citrus Twist: Add orange zest or juice for a slightly sweeter citrus flavor.
- Spice It Up: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or use a pinch of cayenne for some heat.
- Herb Substitutions: Experiment with rosemary, basil, or cilantro for a new flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover salmon and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave on a lower power setting to prevent drying out.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before cooking.
2. What other vegetables work well in this dish?
Broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and green beans are excellent alternatives.
3. How can I tell when the salmon is done?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
4. Can I cook this recipe on the grill instead?
Absolutely! Place the salmon and vegetables on a grill-safe pan or use foil packets for grilling.
5. What herbs pair best with salmon?
Dill, parsley, thyme, and chives are excellent options.
6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the salmon and vegetables in advance and bake when ready to serve.
7. What’s a good side dish for this meal?
Rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad make great accompaniments.
8. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice is preferred for its vibrant flavor, but bottled juice can work in a pinch.
9. How do I prevent the salmon from overcooking?
Keep an eye on the baking time and remove it from the oven as soon as it flakes easily.
10. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free as it doesn’t include any dairy ingredients.
Conclusion
Baked Lemon Herb Salmon with Vegetables is a healthy, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity and quick preparation make it a go-to recipe for busy nights or when you want to impress your guests. With fresh ingredients and endless variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy!
Print
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
Make dinner a breeze with this Baked Lemon Herb Salmon with Vegetables! Juicy salmon fillets are baked with fresh herbs, lemon slices, and vibrant vegetables, creating a flavorful and healthy one-pan meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or a light, elegant dinner.
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
For the Vegetables:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup baby potatoes, thinly sliced or quartered
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh dill or parsley
- Red chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish or sheet pan.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large bowl, toss cherry tomatoes, zucchini, red onion, and baby potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the vegetables evenly in the baking dish.
- Season the Salmon:
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Nestle the salmon fillets among the vegetables in the baking dish. Top each salmon fillet with lemon slices.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C) and the vegetables are tender.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle fresh dill or parsley over the salmon and vegetables. Add a pinch of red chili flakes for extra flavor if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Substitute vegetables with your favorites, such as asparagus, bell peppers, or carrots.
- For extra flavor, drizzle the dish with a little white wine before baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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