Flaky, golden, and ready in 15 minutes!
This one-pan baked salmon recipe transforms your weeknight dinner into a restaurant-quality meal in record time. With just one pan, you'll get a perfectly cooked fillet topped with a golden crust, served alongside roasted asparagus and lemon-garlic flavor bursts.
Whether you're feeding a family or hosting guests, this 15-minute salmon dinner delivers big flavor with minimal effort. The sheet pan method ensures even cooking, while the lemon-dill glaze adds brightness without overpowering the salmon's natural taste.
What makes this recipe special? No need to preheat a separate oven for sides - everything roasts together in one pan. The result? Flaky, moist salmon paired with perfectly charred asparagus and a tangy lemon finish that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
With only 400 calories per serving and 28g of heart-healthy omega-3s, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious. The best part? Just one pan to clean up - no more multiple dishes after dinner.
Ready to elevate your weeknight meals? Let's get cooking!
Why This Recipe Works
Lightning-Fast
From oven to table in 15 minutes, this recipe fits even the busiest schedules. No marinating or prepping required!
Heart-Healthy
Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and low in saturated fat, this salmon recipe supports cardiovascular health.
Family-Friendly
Kids love the crispy skin and adults appreciate the sophisticated lemon-dill flavor. Everyone gets a complete protein boost.
Zero Cleanup
All-in-one pan cooking means fewer dishes. Just one pan to clean after dinner!
One-Pan Baked Salmon
Healthy, fast, and restaurant-quality!
Ingredients
- - 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin-on)
- - 1 lemon, sliced into rounds
- - 8 asparagus spears
- - 4 cloves garlic, minced
- - 2 tbsp olive oil
- - 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- - Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prep Pan: Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
💡 Use parchment for easy cleanup and even cooking
Arrange Veggies: Place asparagus in single layer on pan. Drizzle with 1 tbsp oil, season with salt and pepper.
💡 Toss asparagus gently to coat evenly
Season Salmon: Place salmon skin-side down. Brush with remaining oil, season with salt, pepper, and dill.
💡 For extra flavor, add minced garlic to the seasoning mix
Add Lemon: Place lemon slices around salmon. Add minced garlic to the pan.
💡 The lemon adds moisture and helps prevent overcooking
Bake: Roast for 12-15 minutes, until salmon is flaky and asparagus is tender-crisp.
💡 Check doneness by gently pressing salmon - it should flake easily
Rest & Serve: Let rest 5 minutes. Garnish with additional dill before serving.
💡 Serve with lemon wedges for extra zing
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Salmon Fillets
Choose skin-on fillets for best flavor and texture. Sockeye or coho work well. For a sustainable option, look for MSC-certified salmon.
Substitutions: Substitute with cod, halibut, or trout for similar results.
Asparagus
Add a touch of sweetness and earthiness to balance the salmon. Trim woody ends before roasting.
Substitutions: Try green beans, sugar snap peas, or broccoli florets.
Lemon
Provides essential acidity to cut through the richness of the salmon. Use organic lemons for best flavor.
Substitutions: Substitute lime or orange for a different citrus profile.
Dill
Fresh dill adds a bright, grassy flavor that complements seafood beautifully. If unavailable, use 1 tsp dried dill.
Substitutions: Substitute with parsley or chives for a milder flavor.
Pro Tips for Perfect Salmon
Flavor Boost
Add 1 tbsp white wine or capers to the pan for extra depth. The wine evaporates quickly, leaving behind rich flavor.
Cooking Hack
For extra crispy skin, pat salmon dry before cooking. The moisture prevents the skin from crisping properly.
Doneness Check
Use a meat thermometer - salmon is done at 125°F for medium-rare, 135°F for medium. The internal temperature will rise as it rests.
Make-Ahead Tip
Prep ingredients up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Variations & Customizations
Asian-Inspired Salmon
Replace dill with 2 tsp soy sauce and 1 tsp ginger. Add 1 tbsp sesame oil to the pan and serve with rice noodles.
Herb-Crusted Salmon
Mix 1/4 cup breadcrumbs with 1 tbsp fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, oregano). Press onto salmon before baking for a crispy crust.
Cheesy Comfort
Top with 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy, bubbly finish.
Vegetarian Option
Omit salmon and use 2 cups of roasted mushrooms instead. Add 1 tbsp nutritional yeast for a savory umami flavor.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Garlic herb mashed potatoes - The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the flaky salmon
- Steamed broccoli - Adds a healthy, colorful side that complements the dish
- Crusty sourdough bread - Perfect for soaking up any remaining lemon juices
🍷 Drink Pairings:
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or dry Pinot Gris pairs beautifully with the lemon-dill flavors. For red wine lovers, a light Pinot Noir works well.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prep all ingredients up to 24 hours in advance. Store assembled pan, covered, in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The asparagus will keep best if stored separately.
Freezer Storage
Freeze cooked salmon for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes. For best results, add a splash of water to the pan to keep the salmon moist.
Troubleshooting & FAQs
Q: How do I prevent the salmon from sticking?
A: Use parchment paper and ensure the pan is at room temperature before adding the salmon. Avoid moving the fillets while cooking.
Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: Yes, but thaw completely first. Add 2-3 minutes to the cooking time as frozen salmon takes longer to heat through.
Q: How do I know when it's done?
A: The salmon should be opaque throughout and flake easily with a fork. Use a thermometer - 125°F for medium-rare, 135°F for medium.
Q: Can I cook this on a grill?
A: Yes! Use a grill pan or sheet. Cook over medium heat for 12-15 minutes, turning once. Add lemon slices during the last 5 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This one-pan baked salmon recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. With its restaurant-quality flavor and minimal effort, it's sure to become a family favorite. The combination of flaky salmon, charred asparagus, and zesty lemon-dill makes this dish feel both healthy and indulgent.
Whether you're feeding four or just two, this recipe scales easily and delivers consistent results. The one-pan approach means less cleanup, and the vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Don't miss the chance to add this quick, nutritious, and delicious dish to your regular rotation!
