Print

Easy Salmon Sheet Pan Dinner with Lemon Asparagus

easy salmon sheet pan dinner with lemon asparagus - featured image

A quick and delicious sheet pan dinner featuring perfectly flaky salmon and caramelized asparagus with bright lemon and garlic. Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
  • 2 large lemons (1 sliced, 1 juiced)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  2. Rinse the asparagus and snap off the tough ends by bending each spear until it breaks naturally. Pat dry.
  3. Slice one lemon into thin rounds (about ¼ inch thick). Cut the second lemon into wedges for serving.
  4. In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Add red pepper flakes if using.
  5. Place the salmon fillets in the center of the prepared sheet pan, skin-side down. Arrange the asparagus around the salmon in a single layer. Tuck the lemon slices between the fillets and asparagus.
  6. Drizzle the olive oil mixture evenly over the salmon and asparagus. Use your hands or a brush to coat everything. Sprinkle with additional salt and pepper.
  7. Roast for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon and desired doneness. At 12 minutes, the salmon will be medium-rare; at 15 minutes, more well-done. The asparagus should be tender with browned edges.
  8. Check for doneness: an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the salmon should read 125°F to 130°F for medium. The asparagus should be easily pierced with a fork.
  9. Remove the pan from the oven and squeeze the juice from the remaining lemon wedges over everything.
  10. Let rest for 2 minutes, then serve. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Pat the salmon dry before seasoning to ensure a golden exterior. Don’t flip the salmon during cooking. For even cooking, trim asparagus to similar lengths. Let salmon sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking if possible. Always line the pan for easy cleanup. For heartier vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes, roast them for 10 minutes before adding the salmon.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon sheet pan dinner, lemon asparagus salmon, easy salmon recipe, weeknight dinner, healthy salmon, sheet pan meal, 30 minute dinner