Description
Lemon Herb Salmon with Roasted Veggies
Ingredients
2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 zucchini, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1/2 red onion, thickly sliced
2 lemon slices (per salmon fillet)
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Veggies:
In a baking dish, toss zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onion with olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly.
Add the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets on top of the vegetables. Season with salt and pepper, then top each fillet with 2 lemon slices.
Bake:
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the salmon is flaky and cooked through, and the veggies are tender.
Finish and Serve:
Sprinkle feta cheese and fresh parsley over the entire dish. Serve immediately for a light and refreshing meal!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 2
Calories: 360 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready. Next, prepare your vegetables: slice the zucchini and red onion, and mince the garlic. In your baking dish, combine the zucchini, cherry tomatoes, red onion, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss thoroughly to coat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on top of the vegetable bed. Season the salmon with a pinch of salt and pepper, then lay two lemon slices directly on each fillet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Finally, remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with crumbled feta and fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but can be easily elevated. For a heartier plate, serve it over a bed of fluffy quinoa, couscous, or orzo pasta to soak up the delicious juices. A simple side of crusty whole-grain bread is perfect for mopping up the plate. To add a fresh, crisp element, pair it with a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. For a more formal presentation, plate the salmon and veggies individually and garnish with extra lemon wedges and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil.
How-to Summary
In short: Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss veggies (zucchini, tomatoes, onion) with oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a baking dish. Place salmon on top, season, and add lemon slices. Bake for 20-25 minutes until salmon is flaky. Top with feta and parsley before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of fish? Yes, firm white fish like cod or halibut work well. Adjust cooking time slightly as thinner fillets may cook faster.
How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked? The salmon should be opaque throughout and flake easily when gently pressed with a fork. An internal temperature of 145°F is ideal.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? You can chop the vegetables and mix the seasoning ahead, but assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture.
What can I substitute for feta cheese? Goat cheese or dairy-free alternatives work, or simply omit it for a dairy-free version. A sprinkle of capers adds a nice salty tang.
My vegetables are not cooking evenly. What happened? Ensure your vegetable pieces are uniformly sized. If some pieces are browning too fast, toss them halfway through the baking time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the baking dish, as this will steam the vegetables instead of roasting them. Do not skip preheating the oven, as a cold start will throw off cooking times. Be cautious not to overcook the salmon, as it will become dry. Remember to pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel before seasoning to help the skin crisp up (if left on). Finally, do not add the feta cheese before baking, as it will melt away instead of providing a creamy, cool contrast.
Conclusion
This Lemon Herb Salmon with Roasted Veggies is more than just a recipe; it’s a reliable template for a nutritious, flavorful, and visually stunning meal that comes together with minimal effort. It perfectly balances lean protein, healthy fats, and vibrant vegetables, all infused with bright Mediterranean flavors. Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish delivers on every front. Its simplicity and versatility make it a keeper for any home cook’s repertoire. Enjoy the process and the delicious, healthy results!