Easy Salmon Weeknight Meal

Name: Easy Salmon Weeknight Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, juiced; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes; 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love preparing this Easy Salmon Weeknight Meal because it's a quick and satisfying dish that always impresses. The salmon cooks perfectly, staying juicy and flavorful, while the accompanying veggies add a fresh crunch. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, I can whip this up on a busy weeknight without sacrificing taste. This dish has quickly become a staple in my home, and I often play around with different seasonings to keep it exciting. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you'll want to make it a regular in your dinner rotation.

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-20T03:40:14.247Z

When I first experimented with this Easy Salmon Weeknight Meal, I wanted something that would minimize time in the kitchen without compromising flavor. After trying a few different techniques, I found that baking the salmon and vegetables together creates a flavorful harmony that really enhances the dish. I love to add fresh herbs sprinkled on top right before serving for that extra burst of flavor.

One trick I learned is to marinate the salmon for just 15 minutes in a mix of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. This simple step makes a world of difference. It not only infuses flavors into the salmon but also helps to keep it moist during cooking. Plus, it only requires minimal effort!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick cooking time perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile and easy to customize with different vegetables
Healthy and nutritious without sacrificing flavor

      

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade for this Easy Salmon Weeknight Meal is essential for infusing flavor into the fish. Olive oil not only helps with cooking but also adds richness. The acidity from the lemon juice tenderizes the salmon while providing a bright contrast to the richness of the fish. I find that letting the salmon marinate for at least 15 minutes enhances the flavor significantly, but you can also marinate it for up to an hour in the refrigerator for deeper flavor penetration.

As you prepare the marinade, be sure to adjust the garlic according to your taste. If you enjoy a milder garlic flavor, consider roasting the garlic first. This can add a sweet and nutty taste, which complements the salmon beautifully. On the other hand, if you're a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two for an added kick.

Perfectly Roasted Vegetables

Roasting the vegetables alongside the salmon not only saves time but also allows their flavors to meld together. Broccoli should be cut into smaller florets to ensure even cooking, while the red bell pepper adds a sweet crunch that contrasts nicely with the tenderness of the salmon. Tossing the vegetables with olive oil and oregano before roasting is key; it elevates their flavor and ensures they don't dry out in the oven.

Make sure to spread the vegetables out in a single layer on the baking sheet. This promotes even roasting and helps them develop a nice char. If you notice they're browning too quickly, you can lower the oven temperature slightly or cover them with foil for the remainder of cooking until they're tender yet vibrant in color.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Vegetables

2 cups broccoli florets
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them sit for about 15 minutes.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the salmon marinates, prepare your vegetables. Toss broccoli, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes in a bowl with olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Arrange on a Baking Sheet

On a lined baking sheet, arrange the marinated salmon in the center and spread the vegetables around.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Serve

Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley before serving. You can also swap out the vegetables based on what's in season or your personal preferences.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Easy Salmon Weeknight Meal is perfect for meal prep. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, place the salmon and vegetables in a microwave-safe dish and cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in short increments of 30 seconds until warmed through, ensuring you don't overcook the salmon, which can lead to a dry texture.

If you're looking to freeze this dish, I recommend doing so before cooking. Portion out the marinated salmon and prepped vegetables and place them into freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to three months. For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.

Flavor Variations

To keep this dish exciting, there are countless ways to customize the flavor profiles. For example, try adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the marinade for a tangy twist, or substitute the oregano with fresh dill to introduce an herbaceous note. You can also experiment with different vegetables based on what's in season, such as asparagus, zucchini, or even snap peas for a fresh crunch.

Another tip is to enhance the presentation and flavor by garnishing with additional lemon wedges or fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also elevates the dish's overall freshness, making your Easy Salmon Weeknight Meal 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 marinating.

→ What vegetables can I substitute?

Feel free to substitute with asparagus, zucchini, or any seasonal vegetables you enjoy.

→ How do I know when the salmon is done?

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

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prep the marinade and chop the vegetables in advance for a quicker assembly.