Healthy Dinner Baked Salmon with Veggies
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
I absolutely love making baked salmon with veggies for a healthy dinner option. Not only is it packed with nutrients, but it also impresses with its vibrant colors and flavors. The combination of tender salmon and roasted vegetables creates a delightful meal that's easy to prepare. I often find myself coming back to this dish because it's both nourishing and satisfying, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. Plus, it takes just a few minutes to put together, making it a no-brainer for busy evenings.
When I first experimented with baking salmon, I needed a way to infuse it with flavor while ensuring it remained moist. I decided to combine fresh herbs with a squeeze of lemon juice, and the results were fantastic! This recipe has since become a staple in my kitchen, illustrating how simple ingredients can make a remarkable dish.
One of my favorite tips is to mix various seasonal vegetables like asparagus and bell peppers for texture and color. Not only do they complement the buttery salmon, but they also roast beautifully in the same pan. This method truly enhances the overall flavors and makes cleanup a breeze!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Light yet satisfying, allowing for guilt-free indulgence
- Fresh ingredients that burst with flavor
- Quick to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Perfecting Your Salmon
When preparing salmon, selecting the right fillets is key. Look for fillets that are vibrant in color and feel moist but not slimy. Avoid any that have a strong fishy smell—fresh salmon should have a clean, ocean-like odor. If you prefer, you can use skin-on fillets for added texture, as the skin crisps up nicely during baking, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
The cooking time for salmon can vary based on thickness, but a general rule is to bake it for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you prefer your salmon a bit more tender and rare, you can aim for 130°F (54°C) for a perfect medium. Just be sure to monitor closely to avoid overcooking.
Vegetable Variations
While broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and bell pepper create a fabulous base, feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables. Asparagus, zucchini, or even thinly sliced carrots can also work wonderfully in this dish. Consider the cooking times of each vegetable; for instance, denser vegetables like carrots may need to be sliced thinner or pre-cooked slightly to roast evenly alongside the salmon.
Don’t overlook the importance of seasoning your vegetables. They should be coated generously with olive oil and seasoning to ensure they roast beautifully, developing a slightly caramelized, crispy exterior. Mixing in herbs like rosemary or thyme can elevate the flavor profile. Experimenting with different seasonings can bring new life to the dish, so don’t hesitate to adjust to your taste.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to make your healthy baked salmon with veggies:
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
With these ingredients ready, you're all set to start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your healthy dinner:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Baking Tray
Line a baking tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Arrange the Vegetables
Spread the broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and bell pepper on the baking tray.
Season the Veggies
Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
Add the Salmon
Push the veggies to the sides and place the salmon fillets in the center.
Season the Salmon
Drizzle the salmon with the remaining olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy baked salmon dinner!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, experiment with different herbs like dill or thyme. You can also swap in other vegetables depending on what's in season.
Make Ahead and Storage
If you want to prep this dish in advance, you can cut and marinate the vegetables and salmon up to a day ahead. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you're ready to cook, simply arrange them on the baking tray and bake as directed. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld, giving you a more flavorful meal.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place the salmon and veggies on a baking sheet and cover with foil to maintain moisture. Heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or you can use the microwave for a quicker option, though the texture may not be as optimal.
Serving Suggestions
This baked salmon with veggies is a beautiful standalone dish, but you can easily enhance it with sides. A light quinoa or brown rice salad pairs nicely and can soak up the delicious juices from the salmon and veggies. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette will also add a refreshing contrast.
For a gourmet touch, consider drizzling a balsamic reduction over the dish before serving. Not only does it provide a lovely glossy finish, but its acidity complements the richness of the salmon perfectly. This simple addition can elevate your meal from a casual dinner to something that feels more special.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just ensure to thaw it completely before baking.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
Pair it with a light salad or quinoa for a complete meal.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
→ Can I cook this on a grill instead?
Absolutely! Just use a grill-friendly pan to prevent the salmon from falling through the grates.
Healthy Dinner Baked Salmon with Veggies
I absolutely love making baked salmon with veggies for a healthy dinner option. Not only is it packed with nutrients, but it also impresses with its vibrant colors and flavors. The combination of tender salmon and roasted vegetables creates a delightful meal that's easy to prepare. I often find myself coming back to this dish because it's both nourishing and satisfying, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. Plus, it takes just a few minutes to put together, making it a no-brainer for busy evenings.
Created by: Ariana Brooks
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Spread the broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and bell pepper on the baking tray.
Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
Push the veggies to the sides and place the salmon fillets in the center.
Drizzle the salmon with the remaining olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, experiment with different herbs like dill or thyme. You can also swap in other vegetables depending on what's in season.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g