Effortless Elegance: Sheet Pan Salmon and Potatoes for a Weeknight Feast

Sheet pan dinners are a weeknight savior, and this Sheet Pan Salmon and Potatoes recipe is no exception. It’s a complete meal, bursting with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and requires minimal cleanup. Tender, flaky salmon and perfectly roasted potatoes, seasoned to perfection, all cooked on a single sheet pan – what’s not to love?

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, but it’s also elegant enough to serve to guests. The vibrant colors of the salmon and vegetables make it visually appealing, and the delicious flavors are sure to impress. Plus, it’s easily customizable to your liking, so you can add your favorite vegetables or seasonings.

## Why You’ll Love This Sheet Pan Salmon and Potatoes Recipe

* **Easy Cleanup:** The biggest advantage of a sheet pan dinner is the minimal cleanup. Everything cooks on one pan, so you only have one dish to wash!
* **Quick and Easy:** From prep to table, this meal is ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Healthy and Delicious:** Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein, while potatoes provide essential vitamins and minerals. Roasting the vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, making this a healthy and satisfying meal.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt this recipe to your liking by swapping out vegetables, adding different seasonings, or using different types of potatoes.
* **Impressive Presentation:** The vibrant colors of the salmon and vegetables make this a visually appealing dish, perfect for entertaining.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious sheet pan dinner:

* **Salmon Fillets:** Use skin-on or skinless salmon fillets, about 6-8 ounces each. Look for salmon that is bright in color and firm to the touch.
* **Potatoes:** Yukon Gold or red potatoes are excellent choices for this recipe. They roast well and have a creamy texture. Cut them into 1-inch cubes.
* **Broccoli Florets:** Broccoli adds a nice crunch and nutritional value to the dish. You can substitute with other vegetables like Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or green beans.
* **Olive Oil:** Olive oil helps to coat the vegetables and salmon, allowing them to roast evenly and develop a beautiful golden-brown color.
* **Lemon:** Lemon juice brightens the flavors of the salmon and vegetables. You’ll also want some lemon wedges for serving.
* **Garlic:** Fresh garlic adds a pungent and aromatic flavor to the dish.
* **Dried Herbs:** A combination of dried herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary adds depth of flavor. You can also use an Italian seasoning blend.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste, to enhance the flavors of all the ingredients.
* **Optional:** Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, fresh parsley for garnish.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Sheet Pan Salmon and Potatoes:

**1. Prepare the Potatoes:**

* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
* Wash and dry the potatoes. Cut them into 1-inch cubes. Aim for roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
* In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, dried herbs (oregano, thyme, rosemary), salt, and pepper. Ensure the potatoes are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. This is crucial for achieving that perfect roasted flavor.

**2. Roast the Potatoes:**

* Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a large baking sheet. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan, as this will steam the potatoes instead of roasting them. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
* Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly golden brown. Flip the potatoes halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. This ensures that all sides of the potato achieve that delicious roasted texture.

**3. Prepare the Broccoli and Salmon:**

* While the potatoes are roasting, prepare the broccoli florets. In the same bowl (or a new one), toss the broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
* Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the salmon to develop a nice crust during baking. Drizzle the salmon fillets with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

**4. Add Broccoli and Salmon to the Sheet Pan:**

* Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Carefully arrange the broccoli florets around the potatoes. Make sure there is still enough space for the salmon fillets.
* Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet, spacing them evenly between the potatoes and broccoli. Avoid overcrowding the pan.

**5. Bake to Perfection:**

* Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C). The broccoli should be tender-crisp.
* Keep an eye on the salmon to avoid overcooking. Overcooked salmon can be dry and less flavorful.

**6. Serve and Enjoy:**

* Remove the sheet pan from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
* Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve with lemon wedges. A squeeze of lemon juice over the salmon and vegetables adds a bright and refreshing touch.
* Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious and easy Sheet Pan Salmon and Potatoes!

## Tips for the Perfect Sheet Pan Salmon and Potatoes

* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** Overcrowding the sheet pan will steam the vegetables and salmon instead of roasting them. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure everything cooks evenly.
* **Cut the Potatoes into Even Sizes:** Cutting the potatoes into even sizes ensures that they cook at the same rate. This will prevent some potatoes from being undercooked while others are overcooked.
* **Pat the Salmon Dry:** Patting the salmon dry with paper towels before seasoning it helps it to develop a nice crust during baking.
* **Use High Heat:** Roasting at a high temperature (400°F/200°C) helps to caramelize the vegetables and give them a delicious roasted flavor.
* **Season Generously:** Don’t be afraid to season the vegetables and salmon generously with salt, pepper, and other herbs and spices. This is key to creating a flavorful dish.
* **Consider Adding Other Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the sheet pan, such as bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or asparagus. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vegetables or salmon for a touch of heat.
* **Use Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil:** Line the sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil for even easier cleanup.
* **Rest the Salmon:** Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful piece of fish.

## Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted to your liking. Here are a few variations and substitutions to try:

* **Different Potatoes:** Use sweet potatoes, fingerling potatoes, or baby potatoes instead of Yukon Gold or red potatoes.
* **Different Vegetables:** Substitute broccoli with Brussels sprouts, asparagus, green beans, carrots, or cauliflower.
* **Different Salmon:** Use another type of fish, such as cod, halibut, or tuna, instead of salmon. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **Different Seasonings:** Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as dill, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, or lemon pepper.
* **Add a Sauce:** Drizzle the salmon and vegetables with a sauce after baking, such as a lemon-dill sauce, a teriyaki glaze, or a creamy garlic sauce.
* **Mediterranean Twist:** Add cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired dish.
* **Spicy Salmon:** Use a spicy seasoning blend on the salmon, such as Cajun seasoning or chipotle powder, and add some sliced jalapeños to the sheet pan.

## Serving Suggestions

This Sheet Pan Salmon and Potatoes is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or a simple grain like quinoa or rice. Here are a few serving suggestions:

* **Lemon-Dill Sauce:** A classic pairing with salmon. Combine mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
* **Garlic Aioli:** A creamy and flavorful sauce that complements the roasted vegetables and salmon. Combine mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
* **Quinoa or Rice:** A healthy and filling side dish that absorbs the delicious flavors of the sheet pan dinner.
* **Side Salad:** A refreshing and light side dish that balances out the richness of the salmon and potatoes. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a great choice.
* **Crusty Bread:** For soaking up all the delicious juices from the sheet pan.

## Make-Ahead Tips

While this recipe is best served fresh, you can prepare some of the components ahead of time to save time on busy weeknights:

* **Chop the Vegetables:** Chop the potatoes and broccoli florets ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
* **Prepare the Seasoning Mix:** Mix together the dried herbs, salt, and pepper ahead of time and store it in an airtight container.
* **Marinate the Salmon:** Marinate the salmon fillets in lemon juice and olive oil for up to 30 minutes before baking. This will help to keep them moist and flavorful.

## Storage and Reheating Instructions

* **Storage:** Store leftover Sheet Pan Salmon and Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the salmon may become slightly dry. Add a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of water to the baking sheet or microwave-safe dish to help prevent the salmon from drying out during reheating.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 450-550 per serving
* Protein: 35-45 grams
* Fat: 25-35 grams
* Carbohydrates: 20-30 grams

(Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.)

## Recipe Card

**Sheet Pan Salmon and Potatoes**

A quick, easy, and healthy weeknight meal with tender salmon and perfectly roasted potatoes, all cooked on a single sheet pan.

**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 35 minutes
**Total Time:** 50 minutes
**Servings:** 4

**Ingredients:**

* 4 (6-8 ounce) salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless
* 1.5 pounds Yukon Gold or red potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
* 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
* 1 lemon, juiced and cut into wedges
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Red pepper flakes, fresh parsley for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Roast potatoes for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly golden brown, flipping halfway through.
4. While potatoes are roasting, toss broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pat salmon fillets dry and drizzle with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
5. Remove baking sheet from oven and arrange broccoli around potatoes. Place salmon fillets on the baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
6. Return to oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C).
7. Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley (optional), and serve with lemon wedges.

Enjoy!

## Conclusion

This Sheet Pan Salmon and Potatoes recipe is a winner for busy weeknights or a simple yet elegant dinner party. With minimal prep time and easy cleanup, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, seasonings, and sauces to create your own signature version. Happy cooking!