35g Protein, Lemon garlic salmon tray bake.

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of lemon garlic salmon mingling with roasted asparagus and cherry tomatoes wafting through your home. This delightful combination not only makes your kitchen feel like a gourmet restaurant, but it also packs a punch with nutritional benefits—salmon is a superstar when it comes to Omega-3 fatty acids, which can do wonders for heart health. If you’re looking for a dish that can easily impress, while being surprisingly simple to prepare, you’re in the right place.

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Why This Lemon Garlic Salmon Tray Bake – A Healthy Family Favorite!

This lemon garlic salmon tray bake is your go-to for a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious meal that the whole family will love. With minimal cleanup and a burst of flavor from the zesty lemon and rich salmon, it’s a recipe you can make any night of the week without breaking a sweat. The colors of the roasted veggies not only make the plate pop, but they also ensure you’re getting a variety of nutrients, think vitamin C from the tomatoes and fiber from the asparagus. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this dish in no time!

The Essentials

Here’s what you’ll need to create your very own lemon garlic salmon tray bake:

• 4 x 180g/6 oz salmon fillets (skin on or off, doesn’t matter)
• 1 tsp lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp dijon mustard
• 2 garlic cloves (grated using microplane)
• 1/2 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 3 bunches asparagus (woody ends snapped or trimmed off)
• 200g/7 oz cherry tomatoes (or grape tomatoes, preferably 1 Aussie punnet)
• 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper
• Olive oil spray
• Parmesan (finely grated)
• Lemon wedges or slices (optional)
• Parsley (finely chopped, optional)
• Crusty bread or toast (for serving)

Step-by-Step Method

Let’s get that oven heated and those ingredients working together in perfect harmony:

1. Lemon garlic paste – Mix the marinade ingredients (lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper) in a small bowl. Slather this mixture onto the top and sides of the salmon. If you have an hour, let it marinate; otherwise, don’t sweat it; you can proceed directly with the recipe.
2. Preheat oven – Set your oven grill/broiler to 280°C/525°F or as high as it goes. Position the oven shelf about 20 cm/8″ from the heat source for optimal cooking.
3. Prepare tray – Toss the asparagus and cherry tomatoes with the extra olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a large baking tray, leaving clear spaces for the salmon.
4. Arrange salmon – Place the marinated salmon fillets on the tray, ensuring each piece has a bit of breathing room. Lightly spray the surface of the salmon with oil to help achieve that perfect golden crust.
5. Cook – Grill/broil for about 11 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the salmon flakes easily with a fork, and the internal temperature reaches about 50°C/122°F.
6. Serve – Gently transfer the salmon and vegetables to a plate. Grate fresh parmesan over the veggies, squeeze some additional lemon juice over the salmon, and sprinkle with parsley. Don’t forget that crusty bread or toast for a delightful finishing touch!

Nutrition Breakdown

Each serving of this delightful dish contains approximately:

• Serving size: 1 salmon fillet with veggies
• Calories: 450
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 4g

This dish is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a powerhouse of nutrients. The Omega-3s from the salmon and fiber from the asparagus contribute to a balanced diet, promoting heart health and digestive well-being.

Perfect Pairings

To serve your lemon garlic salmon tray bake at its best, pair it with a refreshing side salad—think arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad. A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish beautifully, while roasted young potatoes can add a hearty touch. This dish shines equally well during a summer barbecue or a cozy winter dinner.

How to Store It Right

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is unlikely but not impossible), let them cool completely before storage. The salmon and veggies can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer preservation, freeze the dish for up to three months in a freezer-safe container. For optimal reheating, microwave gently or reheat in a covered pan over low heat; this prevents the salmon from becoming rubbery.

Pro Tips

1. Marination magic – If you have the time, marinating the salmon for a few hours maximizes the flavor infusion, making for a more aromatic dish.
2. Layering flavors – Use fresh herbs such as dill or basil in addition to parsley to elevate the dish further.
3. Watch the cooking time – Ovens vary; keep an eye on the salmon after the 10-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
4. Customize the veggies – Feel free to swap out asparagus and cherry tomatoes for whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand, like bell peppers or zucchini.
5. Presentation – Serve the dish on a large platter for a stunning table centerpiece, garnishing with extra lemon wedges for that extra pop of color.

Flavor Experiments

Want to mix it up a bit? Consider these creative flavor variations:

1. Seasonal twist – In fall, swap cherry tomatoes for butternut squash cubes for a heartier option that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon.
2. Gourmet flair – Add a dollop of herb-infused butter on the salmon right before serving to create a delicious, velvety finish.
3. Playful option – For a fun twist, try a sticky teriyaki sauce glaze instead of the lemon mixture; it’ll give your dish an entirely new personality!

Learn From My Mistakes

Here are a few common pitfalls and how to sidestep them when making this dish:

1. Overcooked salmon – Keep a close watch on the salmon cooking time; remove it from heat once it begins to flake—better a tad undercooked than dry!
2. Soggy veggies – Make sure your veggies are spread out on the tray and not overcrowded; crowded veggies turn mushy instead of roasting nicely.
3. Bare flavor – Don’t skip seasoning! A well-seasoned dish will always be more vibrant; don’t be shy with those salt and pepper shakers.
4. Skipping the oil spray – Ensure to spray the salmon—it locks in moisture and helps develop that irresistible crispy edge.
5. Not letting it rest – Give the dish a moment to rest after cooking; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

What to Do with Leftovers

If you happen to have some salmon and veggies left—lucky you! Here are a few delicious ways to repurpose them:

1. Salmon salad – Flake the leftover salmon and toss it with greens, avocado, and a lemon vinaigrette for a light lunch.
2. Veggie stir-fry – Quickly sauté the leftover vegetables with a splash of soy sauce for an easy stir-fry to serve over rice or noodles.
3. Salmon tacos – Use the salmon as stuffing for soft corn tortillas, topped with avocado and a dollop of yogurt for a fun twist.

Curious Cooks Ask

Can I use skinless salmon fillets for this recipe?

Absolutely! Skin-on or skinless fillets both work wonderfully. Just adjust your cooking time slightly, as skin-on typically holds moisture better.

How can I tell if the salmon is cooked?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork, and a thermometer inserted should read 50°C/122°F for a perfectly cooked piece.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the salmon the night before and store the veggies separately. Just assemble and cook when you’re ready to eat.

What if I don’t have asparagus?

No problem! Get creative and use whatever vegetables you have, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or even broccoli—it’s all about personal preference!