Lemon Garlic Salmon Tray Bake

Lemon Garlic Salmon Tray Bake brings together everything I love about weeknight cooking quick prep vibrant flavors and minimal cleanup This Mediterraneaninspired meal transforms salmon and fresh vegetables into a onepan dinner that feels as wholesome as it is satisfying

When I first made this I needed something fast but impressive for guests They asked for the recipe before dessert so now I keep it in regular rotation especially on busy days

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets: pick firm glossy fillets with a fresh sea smell I get about six ounces per person for perfect portions
• Cherry tomatoes: these add juicy sweetness Look for plump brightly colored tomatoes without wrinkles
• Zucchini: slice evenly for uniform cooking Go for firm squash with shiny skins
• Red and yellow bell peppers: these bring sweetness and color Choose peppers with smooth tight skins and vibrant color
• Garlic: minced fresh garlic is essential here for sharp pop and aroma
• Olive oil: choose extra virgin for best flavor its the fat that brings everything together
• Lemons juiced: fresh lemon really wakes up the whole dish roll the lemons before juicing for more juice
• Salt and pepper to taste: use flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper for best results
• Fresh parsley for garnish: opt for flatleaf parsley with deep green leaves adds brightness and color

StepbyStep Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit about two hundred Celsius for a nicely roasted finish This gives the veggies and salmon perfect caramelization

Prep the Vegetables:

On a large baking tray scatter your halved cherry tomatoes sliced zucchini chopped red and yellow bell peppers and minced garlic Drizzle with half the olive oil and season with salt and pepper Toss gently so every piece gets a touch of seasoning and oil this helps them roast evenly

Arrange Salmon on Tray:

Move the vegetables toward the edges of the tray to make space in the center Nestle the salmon fillets in the middle so they pick up flavor from the veggies

Season the Salmon:

Pour the remaining olive oil and all the fresh lemon juice over the fillets Season the tops with salt and pepper The oil keeps the fish moist while the lemon adds tang

Bake Everything:

Put the tray in the hot oven for twenty to twentyfive minutes The salmon should turn opaque and flake easily with a fork Vegetables should soften and get a bit caramelized on the edges

Garnish and Serve:

After baking sprinkle fresh parsley generously over the top for color and a fresh finishing note

Save

I have a soft spot for fresh parsley in this recipe Its the pop of green that turns a basic tray bake into a cheerful centerpiece My kids always help sprinkle it on and call it the magic touch

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days Salmon is best enjoyed fresh but will stay tasty if reheated gently in the oven or a skillet Avoid microwaving since it can dry out the fish

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have salmon try using trout or cod Both hold up well to baking For the veggies swap in asparagus broccolini or sliced fennel Red onions also add nice sweetness Lemon zest can boost citrus punch if you are short on juice

Serving Suggestions

This tray bake is delicious on its own but pairs perfectly with cooked quinoa a scoop of fluffy rice or even warm pita bread I sometimes serve it over a bed of baby spinach for a light summery dinner

Save

Cultural and Historical Context

Tray bakes like this are staples in Mediterranean kitchens Emphasizing olive oil lemon and fresh produce this dish reflects the healthy simple philosophy of coastal cuisines where meals are shared family style and cooked with minimal fuss

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I ensure the salmon stays moist?

Brush the salmon with olive oil and do not overbake—remove from the oven once it flakes easily with a fork.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the tray?

Yes, feel free to include asparagus, green beans, or broccoli for more variety and nutrition.

→ Is fresh lemon juice essential?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for brightness, but bottled juice may be used if needed.

→ What can I serve alongside this dish?

Quinoa, rice, or a crusty gluten-free bread pair wonderfully and soak up the pan juices.

→ Can leftovers be stored and reheated?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the salmon.

→ Is this suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, all core ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Always check any added items to be certain.