Description
This Easy Salmon Traybake Recipe is a simple, healthy one-pan meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Salmon fillets are seasoned with garlic, smoked paprika, and herbs, then baked alongside a colorful medley of zucchini, bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. The vegetables caramelize beautifully while the salmon stays tender and flaky. Finished with fresh lemon slices and herbs, this dish is not only nutritious but bursting with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)
Vegetables
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 bell pepper, sliced into strips (any color)
- 1 medium red onion, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, toss the zucchini, bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, dried oregano, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange the Vegetables: Spread the prepared vegetables evenly on the baking tray in a single layer to ensure even roasting and caramelization.
- Prepare the Salmon: Drizzle the salmon fillets with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season them with garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), dried thyme or rosemary, salt, and pepper for a flavorful crust.
- Place the Salmon: Position the seasoned salmon fillets in the center of the tray, surrounded by the arranged vegetables, allowing space for heat circulation.
- Add Lemon Slices: Top each salmon fillet with a couple of thin lemon slices to infuse fresh citrus flavor during baking.
- Bake the Traybake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Check Vegetables: Ensure the vegetables are tender, golden, and slightly caramelized for a perfect texture and taste.
- Garnish: Remove the tray from the oven and garnish the salmon with freshly chopped parsley or dill for added color and freshness.
- Serve: Serve the salmon fillets alongside the roasted vegetables on plates for a nutritious and delicious complete meal.
Notes
- If you prefer spicier dishes, increase the chili flakes to taste.
- Using parchment paper on the baking tray makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
- Fresh herbs like dill add a nice bright flavor; substitute with fresh parsley if preferred.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the tray to ensure even cooking of vegetables and salmon.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
