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Before embarking on the cooking journey for Zesty Lemon Garlic Salmon & Veggies, preheating your oven is a crucial step that should never be overlooked. Setting your oven to the right temperature—typically around 400°F (200°C)—ensures even cooking throughout the dish. When the oven is preheated, the salmon and vegetables will cook uniformly, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. If you skip this step or place the pan in a cold oven, you risk uneven cooking, where the salmon could end up undercooked while the vegetables might become overly soft. Additionally, starting with a hot oven helps to enhance the browning and caramelization of the ingredients, contributing to a more appealing presentation and rich flavor profile.

30-Minute Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon

Discover the perfect weeknight meal with this Zesty Lemon Garlic Salmon & Veggies on a Sheet Pan. This vibrant dish combines succulent salmon with a colorful medley of seasonal vegetables for a nutritious and flavorful dinner. With minimal prep and cleanup, it's designed for busy schedules. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and essential vitamins, this recipe not only delights the taste buds but also supports your health. Prepare, bake, and enjoy a delicious meal in no time!
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Ingredients
  

4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), either skin-on or skinless

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

2 lemons (1 for juice and zest, 1 thinly sliced)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 pound asparagus, trimmed (or substitute with vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers)

Fresh parsley, roughly chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it's hot enough for even cooking.

    Prepare the Marinade: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, the zest of one lemon, the juice of one lemon, dried oregano, paprika, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until the ingredients are fully combined and the marinade is fragrant.

      Marinate the Salmon: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Arrange the salmon fillets on the sheet pan and pour half of the marinade over them. Make sure each fillet is evenly coated. Allow the salmon to marinate while you prepare the vegetables, letting the flavors soak in.

        Toss the Vegetables: In a medium bowl, add the trimmed asparagus and any other vegetables you’re using. Drizzle the remaining marinade over the veggies, tossing thoroughly until everything is well-coated in the zesty mixture.

          Arrange on Sheet Pan: Spread the marinated vegetables around the salmon fillets on the parchment-lined sheet pan. Place the lemon slices on top of the salmon and scatter some among the vegetables to enhance their flavor during baking.

            Bake: Transfer the sheet pan to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The salmon should flake easily when tested with a fork, and the vegetables should be tender yet still slightly crisp.

              Broil for Extra Color (Optional): If you prefer a smoky char on your salmon and vegetables, switch your oven to broil and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning, as the broiler can add color quickly.

                Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the sheet pan from the oven. Garnish the dish generously with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately, enjoying this vibrant and nutritious dish!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4