Save to Pinterest A vibrant nourishing dish featuring flaky roasted salmon paired with caramelized winter root vegetables and hearty greens all baked together on a single pan for easy preparation and cleanup.
I love making this recipe on chilly nights when I want something comforting but still nutrient-dense. Sheet-pan dinners like this mean less time cleaning up and more time enjoying a flavorful meal with my family.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets: 4 (6 oz / 170 g) skin-on, for rich flavor and tender texture
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon for the salmon, plus 2 tablespoons for vegetables and 2 teaspoons for greens
- Kosher salt: 1/2 teaspoon for salmon, 1/2 teaspoon for vegetables
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon for salmon, 1/4 teaspoon for vegetables
- Lemon: 1, thinly sliced for topping salmon
- Carrots: 2 medium, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- Parsnips: 2, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- Sweet potato: 1 small, peeled and cubed
- Red onion: 1 small, cut into wedges
- Dried or fresh thyme: 1 teaspoon dried or 1 tablespoon fresh for earthy aroma
- Baby kale or spinach: 4 cups (120 g) for a fresh finish
- Lemon juice: 1 teaspoon for dressing greens
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Pan:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Prep and Roast Vegetables:
- Toss carrots, parsnips, sweet potato, and red onion with 2 tablespoons olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Spread on baking sheet and roast 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Season Salmon:
- Pat salmon fillets dry. Rub with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Add Salmon to Pan:
- Push roasted vegetables to edges of pan. Place salmon fillets skin-side down in center. Top with lemon slices.
- Finish Roasting:
- Return pan to oven and roast 10–12 minutes, until salmon is just cooked and vegetables are caramelized.
- Dress Greens:
- Toss baby kale or spinach with 2 teaspoons olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Combine and Serve:
- Scatter greens over hot pan. Let wilt 2 minutes. Serve salmon with vegetables and greens; squeeze extra lemon juice if desired.
Save to Pinterest This became a weeknight favorite at our house when our kids discovered they loved sweet roasted carrots alongside fish. Everyone enjoys piling their favorite vegetables onto their plates straight from the sheet pan.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris for a refreshing contrast. For extra flavor add smoked paprika or a drizzle of maple syrup to your veggies before roasting.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best texture.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 420 calories 21 g fat 27 g carbohydrates and 31 g protein making this a balanced meal suitable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets.
Save to Pinterest This easy sheet-pan salmon is sure to warm up your winter dinner routine. Enjoy every vibrant bite!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What vegetables work best with salmon for roasting?
Root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes complement salmon well due to their sweetness and texture. Adding red onion and fresh herbs like thyme enhances flavor.
- → How can I ensure the salmon stays moist while roasting?
Rubbing salmon with olive oil and seasoning before roasting helps maintain moisture. Placing lemon slices on top adds subtle acidity that keeps the fish tender.
- → Can I substitute the greens used in this dish?
Yes, baby kale or spinach are excellent choices for their quick wilting and fresh taste, but other tender greens can work as well depending on preference.
- → What temperature and time are ideal for roasting the vegetables and salmon?
Roasting at 425°F (220°C) ensures vegetables caramelize nicely. Start roasting vegetables for 20 minutes, then add salmon and roast an additional 10–12 minutes.
- → How can I add extra flavor to the vegetables?
Sprinkling smoked paprika or drizzling maple syrup over the root vegetables before roasting can provide a deeper, layered taste.
- → What tools are recommended for preparing this dish?
A large rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment or foil, a mixing bowl, and a sharp chef's knife make the preparation smooth and efficient.