Name: Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 17 min
Total time: 47 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds skin-on salmon fillet (about 1.5 to 1.75 pounds); 1 lemon (sliced into thin rounds); 0.5 cup unsalted butter (melted); 3 tablespoons lemon juice (from about 1 lemon); 2 to 3 tablespoons honey; 5 cloves garlic (finely pressed or minced, or to taste); 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste); 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste); 2 teaspoons fresh parsley (finely chopped, optional for garnishing)

Introduction to Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

When life's pace gets a little too hectic, sheet pan meals come to the rescue! Imagine coming home after a long day, craving something healthy yet delicious. Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon not only fits the bill, but it’s also a fantastic way to whip up a gourmet-style dish with minimal effort.

Why choose sheet pan meals for busy evenings?
Sheet pan meals are a busy professional's best friend. They allow you to combine protein and veggies on a single tray, which means less cleanup time. Plus, these meals cook evenly, ensuring everything is ready at once. According to the USDA, only about 10% of Americans meet the daily recommended intake of seafood. This recipe provides a tasty and nutritious way to boost your omega-3s without feeling like you're sacrificing flavor. The wholesome combination of rich salmon, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic will tantalize your taste buds and keep you coming back for more.

So if you're looking for an easy weeknight dinner that impresses, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into the specifics of making this wonderfully fragrant dish!

For more about the health benefits of salmon, you can check out resources from the American Heart Association.

Ingredients for Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

When it comes to preparing a quick and delicious dinner, sheet pan lemon garlic butter salmon is a fantastic choice that’s bursting with flavor and easy to make. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

Salmon fillet: Aim for about 1.5 to 1.75 pounds of skin-on salmon fillet. The skin not only helps keep the fish moist but also adds a delightful texture.
Lemon: Grab a fresh lemon to slice into thin rounds. This brings a zesty brightness that pairs beautifully with salmon.
Butter: You’ll need ½ cup of unsalted butter, melted. This rich base is key to the dish's flavor and ensures the salmon stays tender.
Honey: About 2 to 3 tablespoons of honey enhances the sweetness, balancing the tangy elements perfectly.
Garlic: Five cloves of minced garlic will provide that savory depth you crave in a garlic butter sauce.
Salt and pepper: A teaspoon of kosher salt and half a teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper will season the salmon beautifully.
Fresh parsley: Consider garnishing with 2 teaspoons of finely chopped fresh parsley for an attractive touch.

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to dive into creating a delectable salmon dinner! For some extra tips on seasoning and preparation, check out this culinary guide.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Cooking a delicious sheet pan lemon garlic butter salmon is not just about the final dish; it's an experience that starts the moment you gather your ingredients. Follow these simple steps for a flavorful salmon that will leave you wanting more.

Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your sheet pan lemon garlic butter salmon cooks evenly and reaches that perfect flaky texture. A hot oven means better cooking results, so don’t skip this step!

Prepare the Salmon Fillet

Next, take your salmon fillet (about 1.5 to 1.75 pounds) and gently place it skin-side down on a sheet of foil. Make sure the longer side of the foil runs parallel to the longer side of your sheet pan. Raise the edges of the foil about 2 inches high to create a little vessel for the buttery goodness that’s about to come! While you’re at it, nestle lemon slices underneath the salmon, spacing them evenly—this not only adds flavor but also gives your dish a beautiful presentation.

Make the Aromatic Lemon Garlic Butter Mixture

For that rich buttery flavor, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl, which should take about a minute. Once it’s melted, stir in 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice (from about 1 lemon), 2 to 3 tablespoons of honey, and 5 cloves of minced garlic. You’ll want to taste this mixture—it's heavenly! Pour about three-quarters of this mix over the salmon and season it with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.

Assemble the Foil Pack

Now it’s time to seal everything in! Carefully fold the foil around the salmon to form a tight packet, making sure that it’s air-tight but not overly complicated. If you can, let it marinate for 10 to 15 minutes. This will deeply infuse the salmon with flavor. If you’re short on time, don’t fret; skip to baking if needed.

Bake and Broil for Perfection

Place your foil pack on a baking sheet and let it bake for around 17 minutes. After that, carefully remove the top piece of foil, exposing the salmon. Switch your oven to the broil setting—this is where the magic happens! Spoon any reserved buttery mixture over the salmon and broil for about 5 to 10 minutes, keeping a close eye to ensure it doesn’t burn. Your goal? A golden, crispy top that’s impossible to resist.

And there you go! Your incredibly flavorful sheet pan lemon garlic butter salmon is now ready to be served. Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and enjoy your culinary creation, knowing that a delightful dinner awaits.

Variations on Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Lemon Pepper Salmon

If you're craving a zesty twist on the classic sheet pan lemon garlic butter salmon, try adding lemon pepper seasoning. Simply mix it into the butter mixture before pouring over the salmon. The bright, citrusy notes, combined with a hint of pepper, will elevate the dish, providing an extra pop of flavor that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Garnish with fresh lemon zest to really amp up the lemony goodness!

Honey Mustard Salmon

For a sweet and tangy variation, consider a honey mustard glaze. Replace honey in the original recipe with equal parts honey and your favorite mustard. This delightful combination adds a creamy texture and a complex flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the salmon. It enhances the buttery sauce while still embracing the heartiness of the dish. Embrace creativity in your kitchen!

Feel free to explore more flavor variations and pairings for your sheet pan lemon garlic butter salmon to suit your palate. What are your favorites?

Cooking Tips and Notes for Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Cooking sheet pan lemon garlic butter salmon is a breeze, but a few tips can enhance your experience.

Choosing Salmon: Opt for fresh, skin-on salmon fillets for the best flavor and moisture retention. Look for a vibrant color and firm texture.
Taste Boost: Marinating your salmon in the garlic butter mixture for about 10 to 15 minutes prior to cooking infuses fantastic flavor!
Consistent Cooking: Keep an eye on your broiler. Salmon thickness varies, so check for doneness as you broil. Aim for a golden, slightly crispy top.

For more cooking inspiration, explore this handy guide on baking salmon. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions for Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Pairing your Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are a few delightful ideas:

Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts. Their earthy flavors balance the richness of the salmon beautifully.
Quinoa or Rice: A simple side of fluffy quinoa or lemon-herb rice adds a wonderful texture and absorbs the buttery sauce.
Salad: A fresh arugula or kale salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing crunch to your plate.
Bread: Consider warm crusty bread for dipping in the delicious garlic butter sauce; it’s hard to resist!

Don’t forget that this dish is perfect for meal prep! Make extra salmon for easy weekday lunches.

Time Breakdown for Preparing Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

When you're ready to whip up a delicious sheet pan lemon garlic butter salmon, it's all about efficiency! Here’s a quick breakdown of the time you'll need.

Preparation Time

In just about 10-15 minutes, you can have everything prepped and ready to go. This includes slicing your lemon and mincing the garlic, so you're not scrambling last minute. If you can spare an extra few minutes for marinating, the flavors will really deepen!

Cooking Time

Once your salmon is in the oven, it typically cooks for 17 minutes. Broiling adds an additional 5 to 10 minutes for that perfect golden finish.

Total Time

All in all, the total time from start to finish is around 35-45 minutes. Not bad for a flavorful, healthy meal that’s sure to impress!

Feel free to check out tips on how to maximize flavor in your meals here for some extra insights on meal prepping!

With this breakdown, you'll be all set for a stress-free cooking experience. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Calories

Enjoy a delicious serving of sheet pan lemon garlic butter salmon with approximately 675 calories. This dish packs a flavorful punch without compromising your dietary goals!

Protein

Each serving is a great source of protein, delivering about 45 grams. Perfect for post-workout recovery or simply maintaining muscle health, this dish keeps you satisfied.

Sodium

With 444 mg of sodium per serving, it's vital to keep your overall salt intake in check, especially if you're watching your sodium levels. Consider pairing this dish with fresh vegetables to lighten the seasoning even more!

For further information on nutritional guidelines, check out the American Heart Association for fantastic resources. Enjoy preparing your sheet pan lemon garlic butter salmon!

FAQs about Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen salmon for your sheet pan lemon garlic butter salmon dish. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight or use the microwave's defrost setting. Using frozen salmon may require a slight adjustment in cooking time, so be sure to monitor it closely to achieve that perfect flaky texture.

What side dishes pair well with lemon garlic salmon?
This recipe beautifully complements a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, a fresh garden salad, or some fluffy couscous. If you want to go a bit decadent, garlic mashed potatoes or quinoa salad are also excellent choices.

How to store leftovers of my salmon dish?
To store your leftovers of the sheet pan lemon garlic butter salmon, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Properly stored, it will last in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for future meals. Just make sure to wrap it tightly for the best results!

Conclusion on Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Making sheet pan lemon garlic butter salmon is a simple yet delicious way to elevate your weeknight dinners. With minimal prep and cleanup, this dish combines fresh ingredients for a satisfying meal. Serve it alongside your favorite veggies, and enjoy a nutrient-rich feast that will impress any guest or family member!