Looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy dinner idea? This One-Pan Garlic Butter Salmon checks all the boxes. Succulent salmon fillets, roasted to perfection, are paired with tender veggies and a rich garlic butter sauce—all in just one pan! Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is a breeze to prepare and easy to clean up. Plus, it’s packed with omega-3s, protein, and fresh ingredients to keep your meal as wholesome as it is tasty.
Jump to RecipeA Brief History of Salmon in Cuisine
Salmon has been a prized ingredient in culinary traditions for centuries, thanks to its rich flavor, versatility, and nutritional value. Tracing its origins, salmon was a staple for Indigenous peoples in the Pacific Northwest of North America, where it was smoked, dried, or grilled. These communities revered salmon as a symbol of abundance, and its seasonal migration was celebrated in cultural rituals.
In Scandinavia and Northern Europe, salmon became synonymous with dishes like gravlax, a delicacy made by curing the fish with salt, sugar, and dill. Over time, salmon spread to global cuisines, finding its place in everything from sushi in Japan to hearty chowders in New England.
The modern culinary spotlight on salmon often highlights its health benefits. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins, salmon became a favorite ingredient during the rise of health-conscious cooking in the 20th century. Today, one-pan recipes like Garlic Butter Salmon reflect a shift toward quick, nutrient-rich meals that fit into busy lifestyles while maintaining the timeless appeal of this beloved fish.
how do you make One-Pan Garlic Butter Salmon
One-Pan Garlic Butter Salmon: Easy, Healthy Recipes for Busy Nights
Cuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes20
minutes350
kcalIngredients
- For the Salmon
4 salmon fillets (skin-on, about 6 oz each)
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Garlic Butter Sauce
4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp honey
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- For the Vegetables
1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Pan: In a large, oven-safe skillet or sheet pan, drizzle olive oil. Arrange the salmon fillets skin-side down on one side of the pan.
- Season the Salmon: Sprinkle the salmon with salt and pepper.
- Arrange the Vegetables: Add the asparagus and cherry tomatoes to the other side of the pan. Drizzle them with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss gently.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, honey, and parsley.
- Brush with Sauce: Generously brush the garlic butter sauce over the salmon fillets. Reserve some sauce for serving.
- Roast: Place the pan in the oven and roast for 15-18 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the veggies are tender.
- Serve:Remove the pan from the oven and drizzle the remaining garlic butter sauce over the salmon and vegetables. Serve warm.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Salmon
Choose Fresh Salmon: Opt for wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and nutrition.
Don’t Overcook: Salmon should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Customize Your Veggies: Swap asparagus and tomatoes for zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli if you prefer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: Ready in 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Healthy and Balanced: Packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh veggies.
Flavorful: The garlic butter sauce elevates the dish with a rich, savory taste.
Pairing Suggestions
This one-pan meal is complete on its own, but if you’re entertaining, consider adding:
- A side of crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
- A light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
- A simple green salad for an extra dose of freshness.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pan Garlic Butter Salmon is the perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing dinner guests, this dish delivers on flavor, nutrition, and ease of preparation. Try it tonight and make your weeknight dinner a breeze!
Would you like more healthy recipe ideas? Let me know! 😊