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Easy Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Salmon Recipe with Asparagus and Capers

easy sheet pan lemon herb salmon - featured image

A quick and easy sheet pan recipe featuring lemon herb salmon with asparagus and capers, perfect for healthy, flavorful dinners with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets, skin-on (6 oz / 170 g each)
  • 1 bunch asparagus (about 1 lb / 450 g), trimmed and snapped at woody ends
  • 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 tbsp capers, drained
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Snap off woody ends of asparagus and toss in a mixing bowl with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and black pepper until lightly coated.
  3. Arrange asparagus evenly on the baking sheet in a single layer, leaving space for salmon fillets.
  4. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, chopped parsley, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper.
  5. Brush the herb mixture generously over the top of each salmon fillet.
  6. Place salmon fillets skin-side down on the baking sheet next to the asparagus, ensuring space around each fillet.
  7. Scatter capers evenly over the salmon and asparagus.
  8. Roast in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes until salmon is opaque and flakes easily, and asparagus is tender but still crisp.
  9. Remove from oven and immediately squeeze juice of half a lemon over salmon and asparagus.
  10. Serve warm, using a fish spatula to lift salmon fillets onto plates.

Notes

Let salmon sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before cooking for even cooking. Do not overcrowd the pan to allow proper roasting. Pat salmon dry to ensure crispy skin. Capers can be rinsed if too salty. Watch asparagus closely to avoid overcooking. Use fresh herbs for best flavor; reduce dried herbs by half. Substitute asparagus with green beans or broccolini if desired. For a low-sodium version, omit added salt and rinse capers.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon, sheet pan, lemon herb, asparagus, capers, healthy dinner, easy recipe, quick meal, gluten-free, dairy-free, paleo-friendly