I can’t wait to share one of my favorite go-to recipes with you: Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon! Seriously, this dish feels like a fancy dinner but takes barely any effort. The aroma alone will make your mouth water and transport you straight to a cozy seaside restaurant.
I remember the very first time I tried making salmon this way. I was hosting a small dinner party, and I thought, “Why not impress my friends with something delicious and easy?” I chuckled as I tossed the ingredients onto a sheet pan, thinking, “This should be interesting.” To my delight— and theirs—everyone cleared their plates! Now this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. Plus, it’s healthy, quick, and perfect for those busy weeknights when you really want something fresh but don’t want to spend hours slaving over the stove.
What’s in Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon?
Let’s break down these simple yet flavorful ingredients, shall we?
Salmon fillets: These beauties are the star of the show and a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids. I always choose wild-caught salmon for its flavor and health benefits, but farmed salmon can work too if that’s what you have.
Unsalted butter: The melted butter provides richness and helps the garlic and lemon flavors to shine. I like to stick with unsalted butter, so I can control the saltiness of the dish.
Garlic: A few cloves of minced garlic give this recipe a delightful punch. If you’re like me and can never have enough garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two!
Lemons: Lemons bring brightness to the dish. One lemon is for juicy goodness while the other is sliced up for that zesty, fresh flavor on top of the salmon. Plus, who doesn’t love a squeeze of lemon wedge on their fish?
Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a splash of color and freshness. If you don’t have fresh parsley on hand, dried herbs can work in a pinch, though I encourage fresh when possible!
Dried Italian seasoning: This is a blend of herbs that adds depth. It makes everything taste like you’ve slaved in the kitchen for hours!
Salt and pepper: Simple, but essential for seasoning. I always add a little pinch, taste, and adjust!
Is Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is not only a flavor sensation, but it’s also packed with nutrients.
Salmon: Known for being high in protein and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, it’s great for heart health and brain function. You’ll feel good knowing you’re serving something nutritious!
Garlic: It has numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, it simply tastes fantastic.
Lemons: They provide a good dose of vitamin C and antioxidants, which can help support your immune system.
But let’s keep it real; as amazing as butter is, it’s still fat, so moderation is key here. If you want to lighten up, you could swap part of the butter for olive oil. I won’t judge!
Ingredients List
– 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons (one sliced into rounds, the other juiced)
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Lemon wedges for serving
*(Serves 4)*
How to Make Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. In a small bowl, melt the butter and mix in the minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared sheet pan. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the salmon.
4. Arrange the lemon slices on top of and around the salmon fillets.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Optional: Broil on high for an additional 2-3 minutes for a crispy top. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
7. Remove from the oven and serve warm with extra lemon wedges on the side.
Perfect Pairings and Tips for Serving
– Feel free to add seasonal veggies! Asparagus, green beans, or cherry tomatoes around the salmon make it a one-pan wonder meal.
– Serve this gorgeous dish over a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up that heavenly garlic butter sauce. Don’t forget to sprinkle some more fresh parsley on top for that pop of color!
– If you want to amp up the flavor, consider marinating the salmon for 30 minutes before cooking. A little extra lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs can take this dish to the next level!
Alright, my friend, it’s time to gather those ingredients, preheat that oven, and channel your inner chef! I promise this Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon will make you look like a culinary superstar. Once you try it, I’d love to hear how it went—trust me, your taste buds will be thanking you! Enjoy!
