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If you’re looking for a meal that’s bursting with vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and comes together with almost no fuss, this Easy Salmon Traybake Recipe is going to be your new go-to. It’s the perfect balance of tender, flaky salmon nestled among roasted vegetables that soak up all those lovely herbs and spices. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself, this dish delivers a hearty, healthy dinner with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a star role. Fresh salmon brings rich, buttery flavors; the medley of vegetables offers texture and color; and the herbs and spices tie everything together into a savory, aromatic experience.
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each): Choose fresh, high-quality fillets for the best flavor and texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds moisture and helps bring out the natural flavors of the salmon.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers a subtle hint of garlic without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): Adds a warm, smoky undertone that elevates the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary: These herbs infuse the salmon with an earthy, fragrant touch.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning all components perfectly.
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced: Brightens the dish with a fresh citrus zing.
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal notes.
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds: Provides a tender, slightly sweet vegetable base.
- 1 bell pepper, sliced into strips (any color): Adds crunch and a splash of vibrant color.
- 1 medium red onion, sliced: Imparts a mild sweetness and soft texture when roasted.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Burst with juiciness and balance the dish with their natural acidity.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Coats the vegetables for a perfect roast.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Lends a Mediterranean flair to the veggie mix.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick of heat if you like a little spice.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables.
How to Make Easy Salmon Traybake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by warming your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lining your baking tray with parchment paper or giving it a light brush of olive oil means your salmon and veggies won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Grab a large mixing bowl and toss the zucchini, bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, dried oregano, chili flakes if you’re feeling adventurous, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This helps the vegetables roast evenly and develop that gorgeous caramelized flavor.
Step 3: Spread the Vegetables on the Tray
Arrange your seasoned vegetables evenly in a single layer over the prepared tray. Giving them space means they’ll roast instead of steam, which brings out their natural sweetness and a lovely texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Salmon
Drizzle your salmon fillets with olive oil and rub them with garlic powder, smoked paprika if you’re using it, dried thyme or rosemary, and a good seasoning of salt and pepper. This simple seasoning blend lets the salmon shine while adding depth.
Step 5: Arrange Salmon on the Tray
Place the fillets in the center of your tray, nestling them among the vibrant vegetables, creating a colorful and inviting ensemble ready for roasting.
Step 6: Add Lemon Slices
Top each salmon piece with a couple of thin lemon slices to infuse the fish with a subtle citrus aroma as it bakes, giving each bite a refreshing brightness.
Step 7: Bake the Traybake
Pop the tray into your preheated oven and roast everything for 15 to 20 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). At the same time, your vegetables will turn tender with just the right amount of golden caramelization.
Step 8: Check for Doneness
Make sure the salmon is cooked through but still moist, and peek at your veggies—if they’re soft and have a slightly crisp edge, you’re ready to pull your masterpiece from the oven.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or dill over your salmon and vegetables to add a burst of herbal freshness and vibrant color.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Plate each salmon fillet alongside the roasted vegetables for a delicious, balanced, and comforting meal that’s as easy to make as it is to love.
How to Serve Easy Salmon Traybake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or dill provide a welcome freshness that complements the rich salmon beautifully. Adding a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few more fresh lemon wedges on the side amps up the brightness even further.
Side Dishes
This traybake is wonderful all on its own but also pairs delightfully with a simple green salad, fluffy couscous, or a scoop of herbed quinoa for extra texture and sustenance.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties or casual gatherings, arrange the salmon and roasted vegetables on a large wooden board or rustic platter. Scatter a few extra lemon slices and sprigs of herbs around for an effortlessly elegant presentation that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making for a quick, ready-to-eat meal the next day.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, it’s best to separate the salmon from the vegetables. Wrap each salmon fillet tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; roasted vegetables freeze well too but might lose some texture.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the salmon and vegetables in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) or in a microwave on medium power, covering to retain moisture. Avoid overheating to keep the salmon tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this Easy Salmon Traybake Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the salmon first, pat it dry, and adjust cooking time slightly to ensure it’s cooked through but not overdone.
What if I don’t like spicy food—can I skip the chili flakes?
Yes, definitely! The chili flakes add a subtle heat, but they are entirely optional and can be left out without impacting the overall deliciousness of the dish.
Can I swap the vegetables for others?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with whatever seasonal veggies you have on hand like asparagus, green beans, or carrots. Just adjust the quantities and roasting time accordingly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this Easy Salmon Traybake Recipe works wonderfully for meal prep because it stores and reheats well, making busy weeknights easier without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?
The best signs are that the salmon flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The flesh should be opaque but still moist and tender.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Salmon Traybake Recipe is truly a lifesaver for anyone craving a wholesome, tasty dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s fresh, vibrant, and packed with healthy ingredients all roasted together for effortless harmony on a single tray. Give it a try and watch it become one of your favorite weeknight meals to make and share!
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Print
Easy Salmon Traybake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
Description
This easy salmon traybake recipe features perfectly seasoned salmon fillets baked alongside a colorful medley of fresh vegetables. Ready in just 30 minutes, this wholesome one-pan meal is bursting with flavors from smoked paprika, garlic, and dried herbs, finished with fresh lemon and herbs for a bright and healthy dinner option.
Ingredients
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 olive oil, dried oregano, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange Vegetables: Spread the prepared vegetables evenly on the lined baking tray in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
- Prepare the Salmon: Drizzle the salmon fillets with olive oil and season them thoroughly with garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), dried thyme or rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Place Salmon on Tray: Position the seasoned salmon fillets in the center of the tray, surrounded by the vegetables for even cooking.
- Add Lemon Slices: Top each salmon fillet with a couple of thin lemon slices to add brightness and moisture 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 and have developed a golden, caramelized finish alongside the salmon.
- Garnish: Remove the tray from the oven and sprinkle the salmon with freshly chopped parsley or dill for a fresh herbal note.
- Serve: Serve the salmon fillets alongside the roasted vegetables on each plate for a colorful and nutritious meal.
Notes
- Optional smoked paprika and chili flakes add extra flavor and heat but can be omitted for a milder dish.
- Make sure to slice the lemon thinly to allow its flavor to infuse the salmon gently while baking.
- Use parchment paper or lightly grease the tray to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup.
- Check internal salmon temperature with a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
