Sheet Pan Garlic Herb Salmon

Sheet pan dinners have become a staple in our household, especially on busy weeknights. There’s something undeniably satisfying about tossing everything onto a single pan, sliding it into the oven, and letting the magic happen. And this Sheet Pan Garlic Herb Salmon recipe? It’s a true weeknight winner! From the moment the aromatic garlic and herbs mingle with the rich salmon, to the final flaky, flavorful bite, this dish has become a family favorite. Even my pickiest eater devours it without complaint, which, let’s be honest, is a victory in itself. The ease of cleanup is just the cherry on top – one pan to wash and a delicious, healthy meal on the table. If you’re looking for a fuss-free, flavorful, and healthy dinner solution, look no further. This recipe is about to become your new go-to.

Ingredients

• Salmon Fillets: 4 (6-8 ounce) skin-on or skinless salmon fillets, the star of the dish, providing healthy fats and protein.
• Olive Oil: ¼ cup, extra virgin, used for flavor, moisture, and to help the herbs and garlic adhere to the salmon.
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced, adds a pungent and savory base flavor to the salmon.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped, brings a fresh, herbaceous note and vibrant green color.
• Fresh Dill: ¼ cup, chopped, offers a delicate, slightly tangy, and distinctive flavor that complements salmon beautifully.
• Fresh Thyme: 2 tablespoons, chopped, provides an earthy and slightly lemony flavor, adding depth to the herb blend.
• Lemon: 1 large, sliced, adds brightness and acidity, both in flavor and for finishing the dish.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, kosher salt, enhances the flavors of all ingredients.
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground, adds a subtle spice and balances the flavors.
• Optional Vegetables: 1 pound, such as asparagus, broccoli florets, bell peppers (sliced), or cherry tomatoes, to make it a complete sheet pan meal.

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Sheet Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Parchment paper also prevents the salmon from sticking to the pan and helps to retain moisture. If you don’t have parchment paper, you can lightly grease the baking sheet with olive oil.
2. Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it removes excess moisture, allowing the salmon to sear slightly in the oven and develop a nice crust. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each fillet for even cooking.
3. Make the Garlic Herb Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh dill, and chopped fresh thyme. Stir well to ensure all the herbs and garlic are evenly distributed in the olive oil. This mixture is the flavor powerhouse for your salmon. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to this mixture if you enjoy a little heat.
4. Season the Salmon: Season the salmon fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Make sure to season both sides if you are using skinless fillets, or just the flesh side if using skin-on fillets. Proper seasoning is key to bringing out the natural flavors of the salmon and herbs.
5. Apply the Garlic Herb Mixture: Spoon the garlic herb mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to gently spread the mixture to ensure each fillet is well coated. Don’t be shy with the herb mixture – it’s what infuses the salmon with incredible flavor.
6. Add Lemon Slices: Arrange lemon slices around and on top of the salmon fillets. The lemon slices will infuse the salmon with a bright, citrusy flavor as they bake. The heat of the oven will also caramelize the lemon slightly, adding a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
7. Prepare Optional Vegetables (If Using): If you are adding vegetables, toss them in a separate bowl with about 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the vegetables around the salmon on the baking sheet. Choose vegetables that cook at a similar rate to salmon, such as asparagus, broccoli florets, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes. Root vegetables like potatoes or carrots will require a longer cooking time and should be par-boiled or roasted separately.
8. Bake the Salmon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets and your oven. Start checking for doneness at 12 minutes and adjust accordingly. The salmon is done when it is opaque and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
9. Rest and Serve: Once the salmon is cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful salmon. Garnish with extra fresh herbs and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximate)

(Based on 4 servings, using 6-ounce salmon fillets and no added vegetables. Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (approximately 6 ounces cooked)
• Calories: 350
• Protein: 40g

Preparation Time

Effortless Elegance in Minutes: This Sheet Pan Garlic Herb Salmon recipe is a testament to quick and easy cooking without sacrificing flavor. From pulling out the ingredients to sliding the pan into the oven, you’re looking at a mere 15 minutes of active preparation time. The beauty of sheet pan dinners is their simplicity, and this recipe truly embodies that. The oven does most of the work, freeing you up to relax or tackle other tasks while dinner cooks to perfection. The total time from start to finish, including baking, is approximately 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when time is of the essence but a healthy and delicious meal is still a priority.

How to Serve

This versatile Sheet Pan Garlic Herb Salmon can be served in a multitude of delicious ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

• Classic Sides:
  • Roasted Vegetables: Extend the sheet pan theme by roasting vegetables alongside the salmon. Asparagus, broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes are excellent choices.
  • Steamed Rice or Quinoa: Serve the salmon over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful juices and create a satisfying and balanced meal.
  • Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the salmon.
  • Roasted Potatoes: For a heartier meal, roast potatoes separately or par-boil them and add them to the sheet pan with the salmon, adjusting cooking times as needed.
• Mediterranean Inspired:
  • Greek Salad: Pair the salmon with a vibrant Greek salad with feta cheese, olives, cucumbers, and tomatoes for a Mediterranean feast.
  • Tzatziki Sauce: Drizzle cool and creamy tzatziki sauce over the salmon for a refreshing and tangy flavor boost.
  • Pita Bread: Serve with warm pita bread for scooping up the salmon and vegetables.
• Asian Fusion:
  • Stir-fried Noodles: Flake the salmon and toss it with stir-fried noodles and vegetables for a quick and flavorful Asian-inspired dish.
  • Soy Ginger Glaze: Brush the salmon with a soy ginger glaze during the last few minutes of baking for an Asian-inspired twist.
  • Edamame: Serve with steamed edamame pods sprinkled with sea salt for a healthy and satisfying side.
• Elegant Entrees:
  • Creamy Polenta: Serve the salmon over creamy polenta for a sophisticated and comforting meal.
  • Risotto: Pair the salmon with a lemon herb risotto for an elegant and flavorful combination.
  • Pasta Primavera: Flake the salmon and toss it with pasta primavera for a light and vibrant pasta dish.
• Leftovers Delight:
  • Salmon Salad: Flake leftover salmon and use it to make a delicious salmon salad for sandwiches or wraps the next day.
  • Salmon Tacos or Bowls: Shred leftover salmon and use it as a filling for tacos or bowls with your favorite toppings.
  • Salmon Frittata: Add flaked leftover salmon to a frittata for a protein-packed breakfast or brunch.

Additional Tips for Perfect Sheet Pan Garlic Herb Salmon

Here are eight essential tips to ensure your Sheet Pan Garlic Herb Salmon turns out perfectly every time:

1. Choose High-Quality Salmon: Opt for fresh, wild-caught or sustainably sourced salmon fillets whenever possible. The quality of the salmon directly impacts the flavor and texture of the final dish. Look for fillets that are vibrant in color and have a fresh, clean smell.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure there is enough space between the salmon fillets and any vegetables on the sheet pan. Overcrowding can steam the food instead of roasting it, preventing proper browning and crisping. Use two sheet pans if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
3. Pat the Salmon Dry: Before seasoning and adding the herb mixture, pat the salmon fillets thoroughly dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture, which is crucial for achieving a nice sear and preventing the salmon from becoming soggy.
4. Adjust Cooking Time for Thickness: Salmon fillets vary in thickness, so adjust the baking time accordingly. Thicker fillets will require a longer cooking time. Use a fork to gently flake the salmon in the thickest part to check for doneness. It should flake easily and be opaque throughout. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part should read 145°F (63°C).
5. Customize Your Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Rosemary, oregano, chives, or basil can be delicious additions or substitutions. Dried herbs can also be used, but reduce the amount as they have a more concentrated flavor.
6. Add Vegetables Strategically: If adding vegetables, choose those that cook at a similar rate to salmon. Dense vegetables like potatoes or carrots may need to be par-boiled or roasted separately to ensure they are cooked through by the time the salmon is done. Consider cutting vegetables into smaller pieces for faster cooking.
7. Broil for Extra Crispness (Optional): For a slightly crisper top on the salmon, you can broil it for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. Broiling is especially effective for skin-on salmon to crisp up the skin.
8. Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon cooks quickly and can become dry and rubbery if overcooked. Err on the side of slightly undercooked rather than overcooked. It will continue to cook slightly as it rests after being removed from the oven. The flakiness and opacity are the best visual cues for doneness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw salmon is in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can thaw it in a sealed bag in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until thawed. Pat the thawed salmon thoroughly dry before proceeding with the recipe.

Q2: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
A: While it’s best to bake the salmon fresh, you can prep some components ahead of time. You can make the garlic herb mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. You can also chop your vegetables in advance. However, it’s recommended to assemble and bake the dish shortly before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Q3: What vegetables go best with sheet pan salmon?
A: Many vegetables work well with sheet pan salmon. Asparagus, broccoli florets, bell peppers (sliced), zucchini, cherry tomatoes, green beans, and Brussels sprouts are all excellent choices. Consider the cooking time of the vegetables and adjust their size accordingly. Root vegetables like potatoes or carrots may need to be par-boiled or roasted separately.

Q4: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?
A: Yes, you can substitute dried herbs for fresh herbs if needed. However, fresh herbs provide a brighter and more vibrant flavor. If using dried herbs, use about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh herbs called for in the recipe. For this recipe, you could use about 1 teaspoon each of dried parsley, dill, and thyme.

Q5: How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?
A: Salmon is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Start checking for doneness around 12 minutes and adjust the cooking time as needed based on the thickness of your fillets. Avoid overcooking, as it can make the salmon dry.

Q6: Can I add cheese to this recipe?
A: While this recipe is designed to highlight the fresh flavors of garlic and herbs, you can certainly add cheese if you like. Parmesan cheese, feta cheese, or even a sprinkle of mozzarella can be added during the last few minutes of baking. Consider the flavor profile you want to achieve when choosing a cheese.

Q7: Is this recipe healthy?
A: Yes, this Sheet Pan Garlic Herb Salmon recipe is a very healthy meal option. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. Baking it on a sheet pan with herbs and garlic minimizes the use of added fats. Adding vegetables further enhances the nutritional value of the dish, providing fiber and additional vitamins and minerals.

Q8: Can I store leftover sheet pan salmon?
A: Yes, you can store leftover sheet pan salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven, microwave, or enjoy cold in salads or sandwiches. Reheating in the oven is recommended to maintain the best texture. Avoid over-reheating as it can dry out the salmon.

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