Zingy Lemon Garlic Salmon Tray Bake Recipe for Cozy Nights

Salmon shines brilliantly in this zesty lemon garlic tray bake that promises maximum flavor with minimal cleanup.

Aromatic herbs and bright citrus notes dance across tender fish fillets.

Weeknight dinners demand simple yet spectacular solutions like this one-pan marvel.

Mediterranean influences make each bite feel like a culinary adventure.

Crisp edges and succulent centers guarantee a restaurant-quality experience straight from your kitchen.

Minimal ingredients and straightforward techniques mean you can whip up this elegant dish faster than ordering takeout.

Let’s turn an ordinary evening into a delectable dining celebration that will have everyone asking for seconds.

What Makes Lemon Garlic Salmon Tray Bake So Irresistible

• Quick and Simple Meal: Minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation make this salmon dish perfect for busy home cooks seeking a delicious, nutritious dinner.
• Flavor-Packed Protein: Zesty lemon, bold garlic, and Dijon mustard create a mouthwatering marinade that transforms ordinary salmon into an extraordinary culinary experience.
• One-Pan Wonder: Combine salmon and vegetables on a single tray, reducing cleanup time and making weeknight cooking a breeze while delivering maximum taste with minimal effort.
• Nutrient-Rich Dinner: Packed with lean protein from salmon, vitamins from asparagus and cherry tomatoes, this recipe offers a balanced, healthy meal that doesn't compromise on flavor.

Everything You Need For Lemon Garlic Salmon Tray Bake

• Salmon Fillets: Fresh salmon pieces that form the main protein of the dish.

• Lemon Zest, Lemon Juice: Citrus elements that add bright, tangy flavor to the salmon.
• Dijon Mustard: Provides a sharp and slightly spicy undertone to the marinade.
• Garlic: Adds a robust and aromatic flavor to the salmon.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Asparagus, Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh vegetables that complement the salmon and add color and nutrition.

• Olive Oil: Used for marinating and roasting to create a smooth, rich texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty and savory sprinkle on top of the vegetables.
• Fresh Parsley: Provides a fresh herbal garnish to brighten the dish.

• Crusty Bread: A complementary side to soak up the delicious juices.

How To Cook Lemon Garlic Salmon Tray Bake To Perfection

Step 1: Whip Up A Zesty Marinade

Grab a mixing bowl and combine zest and juice from a fresh lemon, olive oil, Dijon mustard, freshly grated garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until you create a vibrant, fragrant marinade.

Step 2: Coat The Salmon

Generously massage the marinade all over the salmon fillets, ensuring every inch is covered. Let the fish soak up those delicious flavors for about an hour if your schedule allows.

Step 3: Prep The Oven

Fire up your oven’s grill (broiler) and set the temperature to 280°C / 525°F. Position the rack about 8 inches away from the heat source to get perfect cooking conditions.

Step 4: Arrange Vegetables And Salmon

• Asparagus
• Cherry tomatoes
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper

Spread the vegetables evenly and create space to nestle the marinated salmon between them. Give the salmon tops a light spray of olive oil for extra golden crispiness.

Step 5: Broil To Perfection

Slide the tray into the oven and broil for 11 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the salmon flakes effortlessly and the vegetables have tender edges with beautiful charred spots.

Step 6: Serve And Garnish

• Sprinkle of parmesan
• Fresh lemon squeeze
• Chopped parsley
• Optional crusty bread on the side

Enjoy your restaurant-quality meal straight from your kitchen!

Kitchen Tips For Lemon Garlic Salmon Tray Bake

• Marinate salmon for extra flavor depth by letting it sit in the lemon garlic mixture for up to an hour before cooking.
• Use fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best taste and texture, ensuring even cooking and maximum juiciness.
• Adjust cooking time based on salmon thickness; thinner fillets may need less time under the broiler to prevent overcooking.
• Opt for fresh asparagus and ripe cherry tomatoes to enhance the dish's overall freshness and vibrant flavors.
• Consider adding alternative herbs like dill or basil for a unique twist on the classic lemon garlic combination.

Ways To Change Up Lemon Garlic Salmon Tray Bake

• Mediterranean Herb Salmon: Replace Dijon mustard with dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary. Add crumbled feta cheese on top for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
• Spicy Asian Salmon: Swap Dijon mustard for sriracha sauce, add ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the marinade. Garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
• Honey Mustard Salmon: Mix honey with Dijon mustard in the marinade. Use sweet potatoes instead of asparagus for a caramelized side vegetable.
• Cajun Blackened Salmon: Use Cajun seasoning blend instead of simple salt and pepper. Add bell peppers to the vegetable mix for extra color and southern-style heat.

Side Dishes That Pair With Lemon Garlic Salmon Tray Bake

• Pair Crisp White Wine: Select a bright, acidic Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that complements the zesty lemon and cuts through the rich salmon, enhancing the dish's delicate flavors.
• Create Mediterranean Salad Side: Prepare a quick Greek-style salad with cucumber, feta, olives, and red onion dressed in olive oil and oregano to balance the salmon's robust marinade and add refreshing texture.
• Match Herbal Garnish: Sprinkle fresh dill or chives over the salmon to elevate the herbal notes, providing a clean, sharp accent that harmonizes with the garlic and lemon marinade.

Storing Lemon Garlic Salmon Tray Bake The Smart Way

• Refrigerate: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the salmon is completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Microwave Reheating: Warm salmon at 50% power in 30-second intervals, checking frequently to prevent overcooking. Add a splash of water to maintain moisture and prevent dryness.
• Oven Reheating: Preheat oven to 275°F, place salmon in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm for 10-15 minutes. Drizzle with a little olive oil to keep the fish tender and juicy.
• Avoid Freezing: Fresh salmon loses its delicate texture when frozen, so it's best to enjoy within the recommended refrigeration timeframe for optimal taste and quality.

Lemon Garlic Salmon Tray Bake FAQ Time

• Why marinate the salmon before cooking?

Marinating infuses the fish with zesty lemon and garlic flavors, tenderizes the protein, and helps create a more flavorful and moist final dish.

• Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute salmon with other firm fish like cod, halibut, or sea bass that hold up well under high heat and have similar cooking times.

• How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?

Check for easy flaking with a fork and an internal temperature of 145°F. The fish should look opaque and have a slightly firm texture without being dry.

• Is this recipe considered healthy?

Absolutely! Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, asparagus provides essential nutrients, and the cooking method uses minimal oil, making it a nutritious and low-fat meal option.

Lemon Garlic Salmon Tray Bake Recipe

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4.8 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 11 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent Lemon Garlic Salmon Tray Bake delivers Mediterranean coastal charm with minimal kitchen effort. Fragrant herbs, zesty citrus, and perfectly roasted salmon promise a delightful dinner that you’ll savor from first bite to last.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 4 salmon fillets (180 grams/6 ounces, skin on or off)

Marinade and Seasoning:

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 2 garlic cloves, finely grated
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Vegetables:

• 3 bunches asparagus
• 200 grams/7 ounces cherry or grape tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Cooking and Serving:

• Olive oil spray
• Parmesan cheese, finely grated
• Lemon wedges or slices
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Crusty bread or toast (optional)

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Instructions

1. Craft a zesty marinade by blending lemon zest, juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and well-combined.
2. Generously coat salmon fillets with the marinade, ensuring complete coverage. Allow to rest for up to 1 hour for maximum flavor infusion.
3. Position oven rack 8 inches from heat source and preheat grill (broiler) to intense 280°C / 525°F temperature.
4. Prepare baking tray by tossing asparagus and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Arrange vegetables across the tray, creating a space for salmon fillets to nestle between them.
6. Place marinated salmon onto the tray, lightly misting the tops with olive oil for additional sheen and crisp.
7. Broil for approximately 11 minutes, monitoring until salmon becomes flaky and easily separates with a fork, and vegetables develop charred edges.
8. Remove from oven and enhance presentation by sprinkling parmesan over vegetables, adding a fresh lemon squeeze, and garnishing with chopped parsley.
9. Serve immediately alongside crusty bread for a complete, vibrant meal with complementary textures and flavors.

Notes

• Enhance flavor by marinating salmon for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for deeper taste infusion.
• Adjust cooking time based on salmon thickness; thinner fillets might need less grilling to prevent overcooking and maintain moisture.
• Swap asparagus with zucchini or green beans for seasonal variety or personal preference without changing core cooking method.
• Keep salmon skin-on for extra richness and to help prevent drying out during high-temperature grilling.

• Prep Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 11 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 470mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 22g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 90mg