Healthy Dinner Baked Salmon with Veggies

Name: Healthy Dinner Baked Salmon with Veggies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh dill or parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making healthy dinners, and this baked salmon with veggies has become one of my favorites. The combination of tender salmon fillets and vibrant seasonal vegetables creates a deliciously colorful plate that is as nutritious as it is satisfying. The best part is that this dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, the oven does most of the work while the flavors meld together, ensuring a delightful meal that I can feel good about serving my family.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:04:06.392Z

Through trial and error, I’ve discovered that seasoning salmon simply with olive oil, lemon, and herbs can elevate the dish without overpowering its natural flavors. On one occasion, I forgot to add salt and realized the freshness of the garlic and lemon zest was so vibrant that we didn’t miss it at all. This taught me that sometimes less is more, especially when using quality ingredients.

I also love experimenting with whatever vegetables are in season. Recently, I used asparagus and bell peppers, and their natural sweetness complemented the savory salmon beautifully. This adaptability keeps our family meals exciting, and I often hear compliments when I serve this dish!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Simple preparation with fresh ingredients
Loaded with healthy omega-3 fatty acids
Versatile vegetables make it colorful and nutritious

      

Choosing the Right Salmon

For this recipe, selecting the right salmon is key to achieving a flavorful and moist dish. I recommend using wild-caught salmon when available, as it typically has a richer taste and firmer texture compared to farmed varieties. Look for fillets that are bright pink with a moist sheen. If you opt for frozen salmon, make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours prior to cooking to ensure even cooking and tenderness.

The type of salmon can also affect the cooking time. If you choose thinner fillets, they may only need 15 minutes in the oven instead of the full 20 minutes. Check for doneness by looking for an opaque color throughout and using a fork to see if it flakes easily. If the flesh is still translucent at the thickest part, give it a few more minutes in the oven.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the baked salmon and veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps retain moisture, preventing the salmon from becoming tough. Avoid the microwave, as it tends to dry out the fish.

For meal prep enthusiasts, you can chop vegetables and marinate the salmon a day in advance. Keep them separate until ready to bake to maintain the freshness of the salmon. This allows for a quick cook time for busy evenings, ensuring a healthy dinner is just a few minutes away.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers create a vibrant and balanced dish, feel free to get creative with your vegetable choices. Asparagus, zucchini, or even cauliflower can work wonderfully. Just be mindful of varying cooking times; for instance, asparagus cooks quicker, so add it halfway through baking to prevent overcooking.

To elevate the dish further, consider serving the salmon over a bed of quinoa or brown rice. These grains add a satisfying chew and absorb the delicious lemon and olive oil flavors. You can also offer a side salad with a light vinaigrette to complement the meal and add freshness.

Ingredients

For the Salmon and Veggies

4 salmon fillets
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 bell pepper, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh dill or parsley for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the salmon and veggies.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and bell pepper. Drizzle with olive oil, add minced garlic, and season with salt and pepper. Toss until the vegetables are evenly coated.

Arrange in Baking Dish

In a large baking dish, place the seasoned vegetables around the edges. In the center, add the salmon fillets skin-side down, drizzle with lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The veggies should be crisp-tender.

Serve

Garnish with fresh dill or parsley before serving. Enjoy your healthy dinner!

Pro Tips

For a little extra flavor, try adding a dollop of pesto on top of the salmon before baking. It's a delightful twist!

The Role of Olive Oil

In this recipe, olive oil is not only a flavor enhancer but also a crucial component for achieving the desired texture both for the salmon and vegetables. It allows the salmon to form a beautiful, slightly crisp outer layer while keeping the interior moist. When drizzling olive oil over your vegetables, aim for a glossy coating rather than pooling at the bottom of the bowl; this ensures every piece is evenly seasoned and cooked.

If you're looking to switch up the flavor, try a flavored olive oil, such as garlic or lemon-infused. Just keep in mind that it can intensify the taste, so use it sparingly until you find the balance that you enjoy the most.

Add a Touch of Spice

If you want to add a bit more flavor to your baked salmon and veggies, consider incorporating some spices. A sprinkle of smoked paprika can give the salmon a lovely color and a hint of smokiness. Alternatively, a dash of red pepper flakes can introduce a gentle heat without overpowering the dish’s delicate taste. Just be cautious with the amount; start small and adjust according to your preference.

Another option is to mix a spoonful of Dijon mustard into the olive oil before applying it to the salmon. This not only adds depth to the flavor but also helps to create a lovely crust during baking, making the dish even more appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or green beans for variety.

→ How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients the night before and bake them when ready to eat.