Garlic-Crusted Salmon with Veggies
This Garlic-Crusted Salmon with Veggies is a flavorful, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish that brings together tender, flaky salmon coated in a golden garlic-parmesan crust, served alongside a medley of roasted vegetables. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a light, elegant dinner. With minimal prep and just one sheet pan, cleanup is easy too—making it a go-to healthy meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Total Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Salmon:
4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko preferred for crunch)
1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges, for serving
For the Veggies:
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup chopped zucchini
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1/2 red onion, sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or chili flakes for extra flavor
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Prepare the Garlic Crust:
In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, parsley, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until crumbly and well combined.
Season and Crust the Salmon:
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Place them skin-side down on one side of the baking sheet.
Drizzle each fillet with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Press the garlic-parmesan mixture onto the top of each fillet to form a crust.
Prep the Vegetables:
In a mixing bowl, toss the chopped veggies with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any optional herbs or spices.
Spread them out on the other side of the baking sheet around the salmon in a single layer.
Bake:
Bake for 18–25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork and the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
Serve:
Serve the salmon hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, alongside the roasted vegetables.
Tips:
Don’t Overbake the Salmon: Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 125–130°F (52–54°C) for medium. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist and tender.
Even Vegetable Sizes: Cut all vegetables into similar sizes to ensure they roast evenly.
Use Parchment Paper: This makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
Let the Garlic Rest: Let minced garlic sit for 5–10 minutes before baking to boost its flavor and health benefits.
Broil at the End (Optional): For an extra crispy crust, broil the salmon for 1–2 minutes at the end—watch it closely so it doesn’t burn.
Variations:
Swap the Veggies: Try asparagus, green beans, carrots, or Brussels sprouts instead of (or along with) the suggested vegetables.
Add Heat: Mix red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne into the crust for a spicy kick.
Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almonds in the crust.
Use Different Fish: This recipe also works well with cod, halibut, or trout.
Herb Swap: Use fresh dill, thyme, or basil in place of parsley for a different flavor profile.
Add a Glaze: Brush the salmon with a touch of Dijon mustard or honey before adding the crust for a sweet-savory layer.
Certainly! Here’s the Q&A, Nutrition, and Conclusion for your Garlic-Crusted Salmon with Veggies recipe:
Q&A:
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can prep the garlic crust and chop the vegetables a day in advance, but for best texture and freshness, bake the salmon just before serving.
Q: Can I cook this in an air fryer?
A: Yes! You can cook the salmon in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes. The veggies can be air-fried in batches or roasted separately.
Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, though the crust may lose some crispiness.
Q: What’s a good sauce to serve with it?
A: A squeeze of lemon is usually enough, but you can also serve with garlic aioli, tzatziki, or a light dill-yogurt sauce.
Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: Yes, just thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding the crust and baking.
Nutrition (per serving – based on 4 servings):
Calories: ~420 kcal
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: ~380mg
Note: Nutrition values will vary based on the exact ingredients used and portion sizes.
Conclusion:
Garlic-Crusted Salmon with Veggies is a balanced and satisfying dish that combines the bold, savory flavors of roasted garlic and Parmesan with the natural richness of salmon and crisp-tender vegetables. It’s an easy one-pan meal that’s both weeknight-friendly and dinner-party worthy. High in protein, low in carbs, and rich in omega-3s and fiber, this dish is a smart and delicious choice for anyone looking to eat well without sacrificing taste or time.