If you’re craving a meal that feels both fresh and fuss-free, this Easy Salmon Traybake Recipe is an absolute game changer. It brings together juicy, tender salmon fillets roasted alongside a colorful medley of vegetables, all infused with vibrant herbs and spices. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a wholesome dinner without a mountain of dishes. The natural flavors mingle beautifully, creating a one-pan wonder that tastes like a homemade gourmet treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to this Easy Salmon Traybake Recipe’s success is its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role, lending freshness, texture, or bright pops of flavor that lift the whole dish. The balance of herbs, spices, and a medley of vegetables makes this a wholesome and visually appealing meal.
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each): Choose fresh, skin-on fillets for best flavor and texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps the salmon cook evenly without drying out.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a gentle savory depth that complements the fish perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): Gives a hint of smokiness and mild warmth for extra flavor complexity.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary: Earthy herbs that elevate the fish with aromatic, woodsy notes.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced: Provides bright, citrusy freshness to balance the richness.
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh herbal finish and color pop when serving.
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds: Offers mild sweetness and tender bite that pairs perfectly with salmon.
- 1 bell pepper, sliced into strips (any color): Brings sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
- 1 medium red onion, sliced: Adds a gentle sharpness that mellows beautifully when roasted.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Pops of juicy, tangy sweetness that brighten every forkful.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Tossed with the vegetables to help them caramelize and soften.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a warm, Mediterranean flair to the veggie mix.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional): Adds a subtle heat for those who love a little kick.
How to Make Easy Salmon Traybake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a large baking tray by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it lightly with olive oil so nothing sticks during roasting.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
In a big bowl, toss together zucchini rounds, bell pepper strips, sliced red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle dried oregano, optional chili flakes, salt, and pepper, then mix until everything is well coated and glossy.
Step 3: Arrange Vegetables on the Tray
Spread the seasoned vegetables evenly across your baking tray in a single layer. This even distribution helps them roast evenly and develop those lovely caramelized edges.
Step 4: Season the Salmon
Drizzle salmon fillets with olive oil and rub them with garlic powder, smoked paprika if using, and your choice of dried thyme or rosemary. Season generously with salt and pepper for maximum flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the Traybake
Place the salmon fillets right in the center of your vegetable bed. Nestle a couple of thin lemon slices on top of each salmon fillet to infuse a bright citrus aroma while baking.
Step 6: Bake
Slide the tray into the oven and roast for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know the salmon is perfect when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The vegetables should be tender, with golden, slightly caramelized spots.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the tray from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or dill over the top for a fresh and colorful finish. Serve straight from the tray for an effortless, rustic charm.
How to Serve Easy Salmon Traybake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or dill provide a lovely contrast to the roasted flavors and add a burst of color to your presentation. You can also squeeze a little extra lemon juice over the top if you love that citrus brightness.
Side Dishes
This traybake is a hearty one-pan meal by itself, but if you’re feeling indulgent, serve it alongside a simple green salad or some crusty bread to mop up the juices. Light quinoa or couscous makes an excellent side that pairs with ease.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, consider plating the salmon fillet on a bed of the roasted veggies with extra herbs scattered on top. Alternatively, serve family-style right on the tray, encouraging everyone to dig into the warm, colorful bounty straight from the oven.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover salmon and roasted vegetables keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keeping everything together preserves flavor and moisture for easy next-day meals.
Freezing
This traybake is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to one month. Freeze portions separately, wrapping them tightly to avoid drying out. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a low oven (around 300°F / 150°C) until warmed through to retain the best texture. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can cause the salmon to dry out and the vegetables to become mushy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this traybake?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely beforehand and pat them dry to ensure even cooking and prevent excess moisture in the tray.
What vegetables work best if I want to substitute?
Feel free to swap in veggies like asparagus, green beans, or baby potatoes. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly depending on what you choose.
Is smoked paprika necessary?
Smoked paprika adds a lovely depth and a mild smoky kick, but the recipe is delicious even without it. You can leave it out or replace it with regular paprika if you prefer.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! The Easy Salmon Traybake Recipe is naturally gluten-free as written, making it a great option for those avoiding gluten.
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). The flesh should be opaque and tender.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Salmon Traybake Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dishes when I want a fuss-free, tasty meal that feels special. The combination of vibrant veggies and perfectly seasoned salmon is just unbeatable for a satisfying dinner any night of the week. I genuinely hope you enjoy making it as much as I do and that it soon earns a spot in your regular recipe rotation too!
Print
Easy Salmon Traybake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Easy Salmon Traybake recipe combines tender, flavorful salmon fillets with a vibrant mix of roasted vegetables. Perfectly seasoned and oven-baked, it’s a wholesome, quick dinner option that is both healthy and delicious, requiring minimal prep and cleanup.
Ingredients
Salmon Fillets
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)
Vegetables
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 bell pepper, sliced into strips (any color)
- 1 medium red onion, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the sliced zucchini, bell pepper strips, sliced red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes. Toss them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, dried oregano, chili flakes if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste. This ensures the vegetables are evenly coated for roasting.
- Arrange Vegetables on Tray: Spread the prepared vegetables evenly on the lined baking tray in a single layer, allowing them to roast uniformly and caramelize.
- Prepare the Salmon: Drizzle the salmon fillets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then season each with garlic powder, smoked paprika if desired, dried thyme or rosemary, and salt and pepper. This adds a flavorful crust to the fish as it bakes.
- Place Salmon on Tray: Position the salmon fillets in the center of the vegetable layer on the tray, making sure they are surrounded by the vegetables for even cooking.
- Add Lemon Slices: Top each salmon fillet with a couple of thin lemon slices. The lemon will infuse the fish with fresh citrus aroma and flavor.
- Bake the Traybake: Transfer the tray into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized.
- Check for Doneness: Verify that the salmon is opaque and flakes with a fork, and that the vegetables are golden and soft, indicating they are fully roasted.
- Garnish the Salmon: Remove the tray from oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or dill over the salmon fillets for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve: Plate the salmon fillets accompanied by the roasted vegetables for a wholesome, balanced meal that’s ready to enjoy.
Notes
- You can swap thyme with rosemary based on personal preference.
- For added crispness, broil the tray for the last 2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Use any seasonal vegetables you like, such as asparagus or cherry peppers.
- If you prefer less spice, omit chili flakes.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
