There’s something utterly delightful about the aroma of salmon baking in the oven, especially when it dances with fresh pesto and the sweet scent of roasted cherry tomatoes. Picture this: you’ve just come home after a long day, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. Grilled Portobellos with Pesto Enter Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Asparagus, a dish that doesn’t just promise flavor but delivers it like a delivery person on a bicycle with your favorite takeout quick, efficient, and oh-so-satisfying.
This recipe evokes memories of warm summer evenings spent outdoors, where laughter fills the air, and the grill is fired up. Imagine gathering around the table with friends or family, each bite bursting with freshness as you savor every morsel. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend feast, this dish shines through as your go-to culinary superstar.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you can whip this up in no time.
- The incredible flavor profile will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
- The vibrant colors make for an Instagram-worthy presentation that impresses everyone.
- Versatile enough to pair with various sides or enjoy on its own!
Ingredients for Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Asparagus
For more inspiration, check out this grilled salmon with chimichurri recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Salmon Fillets: Opt for fresh salmon fillets if possible; they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and provide a tender texture.
- Pesto Sauce: Use store-bought or homemade pesto; it adds a burst of flavor that elevates the salmon.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Choose ripe, vibrant cherry tomatoes to enhance sweetness during roasting.
- Asparagus: Fresh asparagus spears bring crunch and color; look for firm stalks without blemishes.
- Olive Oil: A good drizzle of extra virgin olive oil helps everything crisp up beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Always season to taste; these simple additions can elevate flavors dramatically.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Asparagus
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is your magic number for achieving perfectly cooked salmon while keeping those tomatoes juicy.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with nonstick cooking spray. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easy because let’s be honest, nobody wants to scrub burnt bits off their pans.
Step 3: Arrange Your Ingredients
Place the salmon fillets in the center of the baking sheet. Scatter the cherry tomatoes and asparagus around them like they’re at a fancy party waiting for their moment on stage.
Step 4: Add Pesto and Seasoning
Generously spoon pesto over each salmon fillet as if you were icing a cake after all, fish deserve some love too! Drizzle olive oil over everything, then sprinkle salt and pepper liberally.
Step 5: Bake
Slide your colorful creation into the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and those tomatoes burst into juicy goodness.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer everything onto plates, ensuring each person gets some of those lovely roasted vegetables alongside their fish. Maybe add a wedge of lemon if you’re feeling fancy!
And there you have it a simple yet stunning Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Asparagus that not only looks great but tastes even better! Each bite is filled with an explosion of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds (or maybe even thirds). Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This delightful Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Asparagus not only serves up a burst of flavors but also simplifies your dinner routine.
- The colorful presentation is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family meal.
- Easy cleanup?
- Yes, please!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While it warms up, prepare the cherry tomatoes and asparagus. Then, arrange the salmon on a sheet pan with the veggies, drizzle with pesto, and roast everything together for a perfectly balanced meal in about 20 minutes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the salmon for another fish like trout or even chicken if you’re feeling adventurous. Add some lemon zest for extra zing or toss in other seasonal veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to mix things up.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it back in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or microwave it on medium power until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect pesto salmon, ensure your salmon fillets are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- Always taste your pesto before using; sometimes it just needs a little extra kick!
- Lastly, don’t overcrowd the sheet pan; give each ingredient room to roast beautifully.
Sometimes I make this dish for friends who’ve never tried salmon before. Their surprised faces as they devour every bite always make me chuckle a delightful reminder that good food can convert even the most skeptical palates!
FAQs :
What ingredients are needed for Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Asparagus?
To prepare Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Asparagus, you will need fresh salmon fillets, cherry tomatoes, asparagus, pesto sauce, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. This simple combination allows the flavors to shine through while ensuring a healthy meal. Zesty Salmon with Asparagus You can also add lemon slices for an extra zing. Fresh ingredients are crucial for achieving the best taste and texture in this dish.
How long does it take to cook Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Asparagus?
Cooking Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Asparagus typically takes about 20-25 minutes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for optimal roasting. Sheet Pan Fried Rice The salmon should be flaky and the vegetables tender yet crisp when done. This quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy weeknights or healthy meal prep!
Can I customize my Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon recipe?
Absolutely! You can customize your Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon with various vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers. Additionally, try different pestos like sun-dried tomato or a spicy version if you prefer some heat. Feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your taste preferences as well.
Is Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon a healthy option?
Yes, Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Asparagus is a highly nutritious meal. Salmon provides omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health, while cherry tomatoes and asparagus are rich in vitamins C and K. Using pesto made from fresh basil adds antioxidants to this dish, making it delicious and beneficial for your health.
Conclusion for Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Asparagus :
In conclusion, Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Asparagus is a flavorful dish that combines nutrition and convenience. With minimal prep time and easy cleanup, this recipe is perfect for any home cook looking to whip up something special without the fuss. The vibrant colors and delicious flavors make it not just a meal but an experience worth savoring! For more inspiration, check out this Moroccan spiced salmon recipe recipe.
Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Asparagus
Sheet Pan Pesto Salmon with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Asparagus is a vibrant, hassle-free dish that brings together the rich flavors of salmon, aromatic pesto, and sweet cherry tomatoes with crunchy asparagus. This one-pan meal bakes to perfection in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Each bite bursts with freshness, leaving your family and friends craving more.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 cup fresh pesto sauce
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (about 2 cups)
- 1 bunch asparagus (about 1 lb), trimmed
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange the salmon fillets in the center of the baking sheet and scatter the cherry tomatoes and asparagus around them.
- Spoon pesto generously over each salmon fillet. Drizzle olive oil over all ingredients, then season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and tomatoes are bursting.
- Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with vegetables (approx. 8 oz)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Substitute salmon with trout or chicken for variety. Add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition. For added zest, incorporate lemon zest into the pesto before spreading.
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