Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Why Make This Recipe

Sheet pan meals are a lifesaver for busy weeknights. They are easy to prepare, quick to cook, and cleanup is a breeze. This Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Salmon is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health, and the fresh lemon and garlic add a zesty flavor and a boost of nutrients. The use of honey balances the dish, making it perfect for those who enjoy a sweet and savory mix.

How to Make Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Making Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is simple and doesn’t require any special kitchen skills. Here’s how to prepare this delightful dish:

Ingredients:

• 1.5 to 1.75 pounds skin-on salmon fillet
• 1 lemon (sliced into thin rounds)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
• 2 to 3 tablespoons honey
• 5 cloves garlic (finely pressed or minced; or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
• 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnishing)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Start by setting your oven to the right temperature to ensure even cooking. This is an important step to create that perfectly cooked salmon.

2. Prepare the salmon on a sheet of foil with skin-side down. Lay out a long piece of aluminum foil on a baking sheet. Place the salmon on top of the foil, ensuring that the skin is facing down.

3. Create a foil barrier by raising the edges of the foil. Gently fold up the edges of the foil to create a little boat around the salmon. This will help keep the butter and juices concentrated around the fish while it cooks.

4. Nestle lemon slices around the salmon. Take the thin slices of lemon and place them around the salmon on the foil. This not only adds flavor but also makes a beautiful presentation.

5. Melt the butter and mix with lemon juice, honey, and garlic. In a small bowl, melt the unsalted butter. After it’s melted, stir in fresh lemon juice, honey, and minced garlic. This mixture will be the star of your dish, so make sure it’s well combined.

6. Pour three-quarters of the butter mixture over the salmon and season with salt and pepper. Pour most of your butter mix on top of the salmon, making sure it’s well coated. Then, sprinkle kosher salt and black pepper to taste.

7. Seal the foil and let marinate if time allows. This isn’t necessary, but if you have time, sealing the foil and letting everything marinate for 15 to 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

8. Bake for about 17 minutes. Place your salmon in the preheated oven and bake for about 17 minutes. Cooking time may vary based on the thickness of your salmon, so keep an eye on it.

9. Broil for 5 to 10 minutes until the top is golden. Switch the oven setting to broil after baking and broil the salmon for 5 to 10 minutes until the top becomes golden brown and the edges are slightly crispy.

10. Garnish with parsley before serving. Before serving, sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. You can serve your salmon with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a light salad. The fresh lemon flavor complements green beans or asparagus wonderfully. If you’re feeling fancy, serve it with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious lemon-garlic butter sauce.

How to Store Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure the salmon has cooled down before sealing it properly. When you’re ready to eat it again, reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Tips to Make Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

• Choose Fresh Salmon: Always go for the freshest salmon available. This dish depends heavily on the quality of the fish, so don’t skimp here.
• Layer Flavors: Feel free to add extra herbs like dill or thyme for additional flavor.
• Don’t Overcook: Salmon is best if it’s cooked to medium doneness. It should flake easily but still be moist.
• Use a Thermometer: If you’re unsure about cooking times, use an instant-read thermometer. Salmon is perfectly cooked at an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the salmon with the butter mixture in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

Variation

If you want to switch things up, consider using different proteins like chicken or shrimp, which can also be delicious when prepared with the same lemon garlic butter mixture. For a more Mediterranean flavor, add cherry tomatoes and bell peppers to the sheet pan as they will roast beautifully alongside the seafood.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Cooking times may need slight adjustments if it’s not fully thawed.

Can I make this dish without honey?

Absolutely! If you want a non-sweet version, you can either reduce the honey or skip it altogether. You could also substitute maple syrup for a different flavor profile.

What can I do with leftover garlic butter?

If you have leftover garlic butter, store it in a small container in the fridge. You can use it on bread, veggies, or even as a drizzle over popcorn for a tasty snack.

Can I add vegetables to the sheet pan?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes so they cook evenly alongside the salmon.

What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder instead. Use about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove of garlic. Just remember that the flavor will be milder than fresh garlic.

Now you are all set to enjoy a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon dish. Happy cooking!

Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

---

• Author: zoubirlahcen
• Total Time: 42
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Paleo

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A delicious and healthy sheet pan meal featuring salmon, lemon, garlic, and butter, perfect for busy weeknights.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 to 1.75 pounds skin-on salmon fillet
• 1 lemon (sliced into thin rounds)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
• 2 to 3 tablespoons honey
• 5 cloves garlic (finely pressed or minced)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
• 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnishing)

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the salmon on a sheet of foil with skin-side down.
3. Create a foil barrier by raising the edges of the foil.
4. Nestle lemon slices around the salmon.
5. Melt the butter and mix with lemon juice, honey, and garlic.
6. Pour three-quarters of the butter mixture over the salmon and season with salt and pepper.
7. Seal the foil and let marinate if time allows.
8. Bake for about 17 minutes.
9. Broil for 5 to 10 minutes until the top is golden.
10. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Notes

For best results, use the freshest salmon available and consider adding vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers to the sheet pan.

• Prep Time: 15
• Cook Time: 27
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: salmon, sheet pan meal, lemon, garlic, healthy dinner