Lemon Garlic Salmon Tray Bake

This lemon garlic salmon tray bake is the perfect healthy dinner option that’s quick, fuss-free, and full of flavor. The salmon fillets are slathered in a zesty lemon garlic marinade, then cooked in just 11 minutes under the grill or broiler. Served with tender asparagus, blistered cherry tomatoes, and a generous sprinkle of parmesan, this dish is both wholesome and delicious. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal no messy stove splatter!
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 x 180g / 6 oz salmon fillets (skin on or off, either works)
Marinade Slather
- 1 tsp lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 garlic cloves, finely grated
- 1/2 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Vegetables (Optional)
- 3 bunches asparagus, woody ends trimmed
- 200g / 7 oz cherry tomatoes (or grape tomatoes)
- 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Cooking & Serving
- Olive oil spray
- Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- Lemon wedges or slices (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Crusty bread or toast, for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, mix together lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. Slather the paste over the salmon fillets. For best results, marinate for 1 hour — but if short on time, you can proceed immediately.
Preheat the Grill/Broiler
Set your oven grill or broiler to 280°C / 525°F (or as high as possible). Position the oven rack about 20 cm / 8 inches from the heat source.
Prepare the Tray
Toss the asparagus and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out evenly on a large tray, leaving space for the salmon. Place the salmon on the tray with a little room between each fillet. Spray the tops of the salmon lightly with olive oil.
Cook the Salmon
Grill or broil for 11 minutes, or until the salmon is just cooked through. The flesh should flake easily, and the internal temperature should reach 50°C / 122°F for medium rare.
Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the salmon and vegetables onto plates. Sprinkle parmesan generously over the vegetables, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon, and garnish with parsley if desired. Serve alongside crusty bread or toast for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This lemon garlic salmon tray bake is a simple yet elegant dish that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. With tender salmon, roasted vegetables, and a bright lemony finish, it’s a healthy dinner that the whole family will love. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights but impressive enough for entertaining.