Let me tell you about my go-to weeknight dinner that never fails to impress—my one pan lemon herb salmon and zucchini! Seriously, it’s like a hug on a plate. I love how simple and fresh this dish is, and it’s packed with healthy ingredients that make me feel good about what I’m eating. The vibrant flavors of lemon and herbs mingle beautifully with the tender salmon and crisp zucchini, creating a meal that feels gourmet but takes hardly any time to prepare.
What’s even better? It all cooks together on one pan, which means less cleanup! I’m all about keeping things easy in the kitchen, and trust me, this dish delivers. Whether you’re trying to eat healthier or just want something quick and delicious, this recipe checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it perfect for almost any dietary need. Let’s dive into this delightful dish—you’re going to love it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’re going to adore this one pan lemon herb salmon and zucchini for so many reasons! First off, it’s incredibly quick to prepare—seriously, you can whip this up in about 30 minutes flat, perfect for those busy weeknights. The fresh ingredients not only taste amazing but also make you feel like you’re doing something great for your body. Plus, the bright lemon and fragrant herbs take the flavor to a whole new level! And did I mention the cleanup? Just one pan means you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes. It’s a win-win!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making my one pan lemon herb salmon and zucchini a delicious success! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 salmon fillets: Fresh or thawed, about 6 ounces each. Look for vibrant color and a fresh smell.
- 2 medium zucchinis: Sliced into half-moons for even cooking. They should be bright green and firm.
- 1 lemon: Juiced, preferably organic for the best flavor. You’ll want that zesty brightness!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Extra virgin is my favorite for its rich taste. This helps keep everything moist.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced. Fresh garlic adds that beautiful aromatic quality!
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: This herb complements the salmon perfectly, but feel free to experiment!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t skimp on seasoning; it really brings the dish to life.
How to Prepare One Pan Lemon Herb Salmon and Zucchini
Alright, let’s get cooking! Preparing my one pan lemon herb salmon and zucchini is a breeze, and I promise you’ll love how everything comes together. Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have a gorgeous meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: First things first, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Getting it nice and hot is key for that perfect salmon sear!
- Mix the marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Give it a good whisk until it’s all blended together. You’ll love the fragrant aroma!
- Prepare the pan: Grab a baking sheet and lay out your salmon fillets and sliced zucchinis. Make sure they’re spaced out a bit to allow everything to cook evenly.
- Pour the marinade: Drizzle that delicious herb mixture all over the salmon and zucchini. Make sure everything is well-coated—this is where the flavor magic happens!
- Bake it: Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on the salmon; it should flake easily with a fork when it’s done!
- Serve: Once it’s cooked through, remove it from the oven and serve immediately. You can even squeeze a little extra lemon on top for that extra zing!
And there you have it! A beautiful, healthy meal that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Enjoy every bite of this one pan wonder!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to the nutritional benefits of my one pan lemon herb salmon and zucchini, you’re in for a treat! This dish is not only delicious but also packed with goodness. Please keep in mind that nutrition values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Here’s a rough estimate per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fiber: 2g
With all that protein and healthy fats, it’s not just a meal; it’s a nourishing experience!
Tips for Success
To ensure your one pan lemon herb salmon and zucchini turns out perfectly every time, here are a few of my top tips! First, adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your salmon fillets. Thicker pieces may need a couple of extra minutes, so keep an eye on them as they bake. Also, feel free to swap in other veggies like bell peppers or asparagus if you’re in the mood for variety—just make sure they’re cut to similar sizes for even cooking. And don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before baking; a little extra salt or lemon can elevate the flavors beautifully. Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up my one pan lemon herb salmon and zucchini! For a flavor twist, try swapping the thyme for dill or rosemary—both pair wonderfully with salmon. You can also toss in other veggies like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or asparagus for added color and nutrients. Feeling zesty? Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat! Or, if you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors, consider adding olives and feta cheese after baking. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect combo!
Serving Suggestions
To make your one pan lemon herb salmon and zucchini truly shine, I love serving it with a light and refreshing side salad. A mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a simple vinaigrette perfectly complements the flavors of the dish. You could also pair it with some fluffy quinoa or brown rice for a heartier meal; the nuttiness of the grains balances out the bright, zesty salmon beautifully. If you’re feeling indulgent, a warm crusty baguette for sopping up those delicious juices is always a hit! Trust me, these sides will elevate your meal to the next level!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
You’ll want to store any leftovers of my one pan lemon herb salmon and zucchini properly to enjoy them later! Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is super simple! Just pop it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. If you prefer, you can also reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Just be careful not to overcook the salmon again; we want it to stay moist and delicious!
FAQ Section
Got questions about my one pan lemon herb salmon and zucchini? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear:
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe? Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
What other vegetables can I add? You can definitely mix it up! Bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli work wonderfully with this dish.
How do I know when the salmon is done? The salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and is no longer translucent in the center.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prep the marinade and veggies in advance, but I recommend baking it fresh for the best texture.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep, as it stores well and reheats nicely for quick lunches or dinners.
Print
One Pan Lemon Herb Salmon and Zucchini: A Cozy Delight!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and healthy one pan meal featuring lemon herb salmon and zucchini.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Place salmon and zucchini on a baking sheet.
- Pour the herb mixture over the salmon and zucchini.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until salmon is cooked through.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the salmon.
- You can add other vegetables if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: one pan lemon herb salmon and zucchini