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Cozy Sheet Pan Salmon with Lemon Garlic Butter: Best Easy Dinner

cozy sheet pan salmon with lemon garlic butter - featured image

This cozy sheet pan salmon with lemon garlic butter is a quick and easy dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes. Flaky salmon, buttery roasted vegetables, and a bright lemon-garlic finish make it the ultimate comfort meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each, skin-on or skinless)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large lemon, juiced and zested
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and smoked paprika. Whisk until well combined.
  3. On the prepared sheet pan, toss asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread in an even layer, leaving space in the center for the salmon.
  4. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Place skin-side down in the center of the pan.
  5. Brush the tops of the salmon with about half of the garlic butter mixture. Reserve the rest.
  6. Roast for 12 minutes.
  7. Remove the pan from the oven and brush the remaining garlic butter over the salmon. Return to the oven for 3 to 5 minutes, until the salmon is flaky and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  8. Let the salmon rest on the pan for 2 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, pat the salmon dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy crust. If using frozen salmon, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and pat dry. For dairy-free, substitute butter with vegan butter or ghee. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

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