Name: One-Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Ingredients: ¼ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp salt; 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed; 1 lemon (juice and zest); 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp honey (optional); 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 salmon fillets (4-6 oz each, skin-on); Optional: lemon slices for garnish

Savor One-Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon, a healthy, flavorful dish with tender salmon, zesty lemon, and garlic. This quick, vibrant meal is perfect for weeknight dinners, delivering nutritious, Mediterranean-inspired flavors with minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon is a wholesome, delicious dinner that combines the rich, buttery texture of salmon with the bright, zesty flavors of lemon and garlic, all cooked in a single pan for effortless cleanup. Ready in under 30 minutes, this heart-healthy, protein-packed dish is perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners. Its Mediterranean-inspired flavors are both refreshing and satisfying, while its versatility allows you to swap veggies or seasonings to suit your taste. Budget-friendly and nutrient-rich, this recipe pairs beautifully with a side salad or roasted veggies, making it a family favorite that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Pat Salmon Dry: Dry salmon fillets with paper towels for a crispier, golden sear.
Use Medium Heat: Cook salmon on medium to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
Don’t Overcook: Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork; aim for 145°F internally.
Zest Lemon First: Zest the lemon before juicing for easier prep and maximum flavor.
Foil-Line Pan: Use foil for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking in the oven.
Rest Briefly: Let salmon rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to lock in juices.

Yield: 4 Servings

One-Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon

One-Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon, a healthy, zesty dish with asparagus, perfect for quick, nutritious dinners.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt
1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
1 lemon (juice and zest)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp honey (optional)
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 salmon fillets (4-6 oz each, skin-on)
Optional: lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F to get ready for a quick, flavorful bake.
Prep Salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels; season with salt and pepper.
Trim Asparagus: Snap off woody ends of asparagus and place on a foil-lined baking sheet.
Zest and Juice Lemon: Zest the lemon, then squeeze out the juice for a bright, tangy flavor.
Mix Marinade: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, zest, minced garlic, and honey.
Coat Salmon and Veggies: Brush salmon and asparagus with the lemon-garlic marinade; spread evenly on the pan.
Bake the Dish: Bake for 12-15 minutes until salmon flakes easily and asparagus is tender-crisp.
Check Doneness: Ensure salmon reaches 145°F internally; asparagus should be vibrant and slightly crisp.
Rest Briefly: Let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes to lock in juices and flavor.
Serve with Flair: Plate salmon and asparagus, garnish with parsley and lemon slices, and enjoy this vibrant meal!

Notes

Check salmon doneness with a fork; it should flake easily but remain moist.
Use fresh lemon for the best flavor; bottled juice lacks the same brightness.
Leftovers are great in salads or wraps for a quick next-day meal.
Serve with a side salad, quinoa, or roasted potatoes for a complete dinner.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 834Total Fat 51gSaturated Fat 10gUnsaturated Fat 37gCholesterol 224mgSodium 525mgCarbohydrates 9gFiber 3gSugar 4gProtein 82g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Salmon Fillets: Fresh, skin-on salmon adds flavor and texture; skinless works for easier eating.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide bright, tangy flavor; avoid bottled juice.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic offers bold aroma; garlic powder is a quick substitute.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds crunch and nutrition; trim woody ends before cooking.
Olive Oil: Extra-virgin olive oil enhances Mediterranean flavors; avocado oil is a high-heat alternative.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note; dried parsley works in a pinch.
Salt and Pepper: Use sparingly to enhance natural flavors without overpowering.
Honey: A touch of honey balances lemon’s acidity; optional for subtle sweetness.

Variations and Substitutions

Veggie Swap: Replace asparagus with green beans, zucchini, or broccoli for variety.
Protein Alternatives: Use cod, tilapia, or tofu for a vegetarian option; adjust cook time.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a hint of heat.
Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Dairy-Free: Naturally dairy-free; no substitutions needed for lactose-free diets.
Herb Variations: Swap parsley for dill, basil, or thyme for different flavor profiles.
Low-Carb: Pair with cauliflower rice or extra veggies for a keto-friendly meal.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid drying out.
Freezer: Freeze cooked salmon and veggies for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a 325°F oven or microwave with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Meal Prep: Cook salmon and veggies ahead; store separately for easy reheating.