Name: Sheet Pan Salmon: Easy Recipe for a Healthy Weeknight Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 - 2 pounds salmon fillet, skin on or off; 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved; 1 red onion, cut into wedges; 2 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped into 1-inch pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling; 1 lemon, thinly sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)

Sheet Pan Salmon: the weeknight dinner hero you didn't know you needed! Imagine perfectly flaky, succulent salmon, roasted alongside vibrant, tender vegetables, all on a single pan. No mountains of dishes, no complicated techniques – just pure, delicious simplicity. Are you ready to reclaim your evenings and enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal without the fuss?

While the concept of roasting fish with vegetables is hardly new, the "sheet pan" method has exploded in popularity in recent years, and for good reason. It's a testament to our modern desire for efficiency and convenience without sacrificing quality. Cultures around the world have long paired fish with fresh produce, drawing on the natural flavors and nutritional benefits of both. Think of Mediterranean grilled fish with roasted peppers and onions, or Asian-inspired baked salmon with bok choy and ginger. The beauty of sheet pan salmon is its adaptability; you can customize the vegetables and seasonings to suit your taste and dietary needs.

People adore this dish for its incredible ease of preparation and cleanup. The high heat of the oven ensures the salmon cooks quickly and evenly, while the vegetables become perfectly caramelized and tender. The combination of the rich, omega-3-packed salmon with the vibrant flavors and textures of the roasted vegetables creates a symphony of taste that's both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, the minimal cleanup means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal and your evening. Let's dive into this simple yet elegant recipe!

Ingredients:

1.5 - 2 pounds salmon fillet, skin on or off (I prefer skin on for extra flavor!)
1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
1 red onion, cut into wedges
2 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped into 1-inch pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
1 lemon, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Vegetables:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure your oven rack is in the middle position. This will ensure even cooking for both the salmon and the vegetables.
While the oven is preheating, prepare the vegetables. In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts, red onion wedges, and chopped bell peppers.
Drizzle the vegetables with about 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Don't be shy! The oil helps them roast properly and develop a nice caramelized flavor.
Season the vegetables generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. I like to use a good pinch of each.
Toss the vegetables thoroughly to ensure they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. This step is crucial for even cooking and maximum flavor.
Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet. If your baking sheet isn't large enough, you might need to use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding. Overcrowding will steam the vegetables instead of roasting them.

Preparing the Salmon:

While the vegetables are roasting, prepare the salmon. Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely if you're using skin-on salmon.
In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, maple syrup (or honey), smoked paprika, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). This mixture will create a delicious glaze for the salmon.
Season the salmon fillet with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Again, don't be afraid to season generously.
Place the salmon fillet on the baking sheet with the vegetables. Make sure there's enough space around the salmon so it can cook evenly.
Spread the Dijon mustard mixture evenly over the top of the salmon fillet. This glaze will add a wonderful depth of flavor and help keep the salmon moist.
Arrange the lemon slices around the salmon and vegetables on the baking sheet. The lemon slices will infuse the dish with a bright, citrusy flavor.

Cooking Process:

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your salmon fillet.
The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized. If the vegetables are browning too quickly, you can loosely cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil for the last few minutes of cooking.
To check if the salmon is done, insert a fork into the thickest part of the fillet and gently twist. If the salmon flakes easily, it's ready. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
If you're using skin-on salmon and want the skin to be extra crispy, you can broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!

Serving:

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the salmon and vegetables rest for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, chopped. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Serve the sheet pan salmon and vegetables immediately. It's delicious on its own or with a side of quinoa, rice, or couscous.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Tips and Variations:

Vegetable Variations: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables to this recipe. Some great options include broccoli florets, asparagus spears, carrots, sweet potatoes, or zucchini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Spice it Up: If you like a little more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the Dijon mustard mixture.
Herb Options: Instead of parsley or dill, try using other fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano.
Citrus Twist: Experiment with different citrus fruits like oranges or grapefruits instead of lemon.
Sweetener Alternatives: If you don't have maple syrup or honey, you can use brown sugar or agave nectar.
Salmon Skin: If you prefer crispy salmon skin, make sure to pat the skin dry thoroughly before cooking and consider broiling it for a minute or two at the end.
Don't Overcook: Salmon is best when it's cooked just until it flakes easily. Overcooked salmon can be dry and tough.
Sheet Pan Liner: For easy cleanup, line your baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

Why This Recipe Works:

This sheet pan salmon recipe is a winner for several reasons. First, it's incredibly easy to make. Everything cooks together on one pan, which means minimal cleanup. Second, it's packed with flavor. The combination of the Dijon mustard glaze, smoked paprika, and lemon creates a delicious and complex flavor profile that complements the salmon perfectly. Third, it's a healthy and nutritious meal. Salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, and the vegetables provide plenty of vitamins and fiber. Finally, it's versatile. You can easily customize this recipe to suit your own tastes and preferences by using different vegetables, herbs, or spices.

Enjoy your delicious and easy sheet pan salmon!

Conclusion:

This Sheet Pan Salmon recipe isn't just another weeknight dinner; it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen, a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more. I truly believe this is a must-try for anyone looking for a healthy, delicious, and incredibly easy meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – minimal prep, minimal cleanup, and maximum flavor. You get perfectly cooked salmon, tender-crisp vegetables, and a vibrant sauce that ties everything together, all from a single sheet pan! But why is it a must-try? Beyond the ease of preparation, it's the sheer versatility. You can customize the vegetables to your liking, swapping out broccoli for asparagus, adding bell peppers for a touch of sweetness, or even throwing in some cherry tomatoes for a burst of acidity. The possibilities are endless! And let's not forget the health benefits. Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, essential for brain health and overall well-being. Paired with a medley of colorful vegetables, this dish is a nutritional powerhouse. Looking for serving suggestions? I love serving this Sheet Pan Salmon over a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. You could also flake the salmon and toss it with pasta for a quick and easy lunch. For a low-carb option, serve it alongside a simple green salad or cauliflower rice. And if you're feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of sriracha for an extra kick. Here are a few variations to get you started:

Lemon Herb Salmon:

Use lemon slices and fresh herbs like dill, parsley, and thyme to infuse the salmon with a bright, herbaceous flavor.

Mediterranean Salmon:

Add Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese to the sheet pan for a taste of the Mediterranean.

Spicy Salmon:

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil to the marinade for a spicy kick.

Asian-Inspired Salmon:

Use soy sauce, ginger, and garlic in the marinade, and add broccoli and snap peas to the sheet pan. I'm confident that once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your weekly rotation. It's the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want a healthy and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, and the ease of preparation makes it a winner every time. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your sheet pan, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the magic of this Sheet Pan Salmon recipe. I'm so excited for you to try it! And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What were your favorite vegetables to use? Did you add any special seasonings? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I can't wait to see what you create! Happy cooking!