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Lemon Garlic Salmon Bake

Posted by Owen Murphy on 30-03-2026

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This Lemon Garlic Salmon Tray Bake is a must-try for anyone looking for an easy, healthy, and flavorful dinner.

The salmon is coated in a bold lemon-garlic paste, which not only adds flavor but also ensures a tender, flaky result in just 11 minutes.

Perfect for a busy weeknight, this dish cooks alongside parmesan asparagus and blistered cherry tomatoes, all on a single tray, minimizing cleanup!

Ingredients

To make this tray bake, you'll need the following ingredients:

For the Salmon & Marinade

- Salmon – Skinless or with skin, this recipe works with both, though the skin won't crisp. It's best to use fillets of around 180g/6 oz. You can also substitute trout if you prefer.

- Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy kick while helping the marinade stick to the salmon.

- Garlic – Fresh garlic, finely grated for a smooth paste that won’t burn.

- Lemon – Use both zest and juice to bring fresh citrus flavor to the marinade.

- Olive Oil – For richness and to help the salmon cook to a perfect color.

- Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning the fish to perfection.

For the Vegetables

- Asparagus – Choose thicker spears for the best texture, snapping off the ends by hand.

- Cherry Tomatoes – Use grape tomatoes if preferred.

- Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper – To season the veggies before roasting.

- Parmesan – Finely grated for a tasty finish over the vegetables.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Salmon Tray Bake

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Marinade

Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Coat the top and sides of the salmon fillets. Optional: Marinate for 1 hour for deeper flavor. Even without marinating, the salmon will be delicious.

Step 2: Toss the Vegetables

Toss asparagus and tomatoes in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking tray, leaving space for the salmon.

Step 3: Cook the Salmon & Veggies

Place salmon on the tray with vegetables. Lightly spray the salmon with oil. Cook under a grill or broiler at 280°C/525°F for 11 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily and asparagus is tender with slightly charred tomatoes.

Step 4: Serve

Transfer salmon and vegetables to plates. Grate parmesan over the vegetables, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon, and sprinkle with parsley if desired. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the juices.

Why This Recipe Works

This tray bake is an easy, healthy, and satisfying dinner solution. Salmon is juicy, flaky, and infused with lemon and garlic. Vegetables cook alongside the salmon, absorbing flavor while staying crisp-tender. Plus, only one tray to clean!

Tips for Perfection

- For Crispy Salmon Skin: If you prefer crispy skin, cook the salmon skin-side down in a pan instead of using the oven.

- Vegetable Variations: You can substitute the asparagus and tomatoes with other vegetables that cook quickly, such as green beans or broccolini.

- Don't Overcook the Salmon: To ensure juicy salmon, aim for an internal temperature of 50°C/122°F, which will rise slightly while resting.

This Lemon Garlic Salmon Tray Bake is the perfect example of a dinner that’s quick, healthy, and packed with flavor. With minimal preparation, one tray, and just 11 minutes in the oven, you get a deliciously tender salmon paired with crisp-tender vegetables that everyone will love. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent juggling schedules, or just someone craving a tasty, nutritious meal, this recipe is a reliable go-to. Try it tonight and enjoy a stress-free, satisfying dinner that proves healthy eating can also be effortless and delicious.