Effortless Lemon Tarragon Sheet Pan Salmon Dinner with Roasted Green Beans & Cauliflower
Prepare to transform your weeknight dinners with this incredibly simple yet extraordinarily flavorful Sheet Pan Salmon Dinner. Infused with the bright zest of lemon and the delicate aroma of tarragon, this dish is perfectly complemented by savory roasted green beans and tender cauliflower. What makes this recipe a true game-changer? Its minimal preparation, effortless cleanup, and a promise to deliver a wholesome, satisfying meal in just 30 minutes! Designed to serve 2-4 people, this recipe is a testament to how quick and healthy cooking can be undeniably delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Sheet Pan Salmon Dinner
Hi everyone! I’m absolutely thrilled to share this fantastic Sheet Pan Salmon Dinner recipe with you. As the seasons change and life gets busier, finding a meal that’s both quick to prepare and deeply satisfying can be a challenge. That’s precisely where sheet pan dinners shine. They are the ultimate solution for busy weeknights, allowing you to combine your protein and vegetables onto a single pan, cooking everything simultaneously for maximum flavor and minimal fuss. Just like our popular sheet pan chicken fajitas, these all-in-one meals are a lifesaver in the kitchen. We simply can’t get enough of these convenient and delicious recipes!
The beauty of a sheet pan meal lies in its simplicity and efficiency. Imagine spending less time chopping and stirring, and more time enjoying a nourishing meal with your family. This lemon tarragon salmon dinner exemplifies that ease, bringing together vibrant flavors and textures in one harmonious bake. It’s the perfect answer for when you crave a homemade, healthy meal but are short on time.
The Star Ingredients: Salmon, Lemon, and Tarragon
Salmon is not only a delight to the palate but also a powerhouse of nutrition, rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins. It’s a versatile fish that pairs beautifully with a wide array of flavors. I’ve explored various salmon recipes recently, including a delightful Lemon Rosemary Salmon and a vibrant Fresh Herb Baked Salmon. This particular recipe takes inspiration from my thriving herb garden, where I love cultivating fresh herbs to elevate my cooking. Incorporating fresh herbs truly transforms the cooking and eating experience, adding depth and brightness that dried herbs simply can’t replicate.
Tarragon, in particular, is an herb that complements fish and chicken dishes exceptionally well. Its unique flavor profile, often described as a delicate blend of anise and vanilla with a hint of pepper, creates an exquisite synergy with garlic and lemon. While it might remind you of fennel or anise, tarragon offers a slightly milder, more refined essence. When paired with the bright acidity of lemon, it cuts through the richness of the salmon, creating a balanced and incredibly appetizing meal.
Ingredients for This Healthy Sheet Pan Salmon Dinner
This recipe calls for fresh, high-quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to create this fantastic meal:
- 1 pound salmon (can be one large piece or individual filets)
For the Zesty Salmon Marinade:
The marinade is key to infusing the salmon with incredible flavor. It’s a simple blend that works wonders.
- 1/4 cup good quality olive oil
- 1 medium lemon, thinly sliced (some for the marinade, some for topping)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar for a touch of sweetness and depth
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh chopped tarragon (the star herb!)
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley for freshness
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt (adjust to your taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper, plus extra for serving
- Optional: 1-2 cloves garlic, peeled, crushed, and finely chopped for an aromatic kick
- Optional: dot with 2 tablespoons unsalted butter on top of the salmon for extra richness
For the Perfectly Roasted Side Vegetables:
Green beans and cauliflower are robust enough to roast alongside the salmon, absorbing flavors and achieving a delightful texture.
- 1/2 head of cauliflower, thoroughly washed and chopped into 1/2-3/4 inch width florets
- 12 ounces fresh green beans, washed and ends snipped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for roasting
- 1-2 teaspoons kosher salt (season generously)
Helpful Kitchen Tools for Your Sheet Pan Salmon Dinner Success
To make this recipe as smooth and enjoyable as possible, here are a few kitchen essentials that will come in handy:
- A sturdy cutting board for preparing your salmon and vegetables.
- Accurate measuring spoons and cups to ensure proper ingredient ratios.
- A reliable wet measure for liquids like olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- A sharp chef’s knife for efficient chopping.
- At least one rimmed baking sheet – essential for sheet pan cooking! A large one is ideal, or two if you prefer more space for veggies.
- Aluminum foil (or parchment paper) for easy cleanup.
- 3 large mixing bowls for marinating the salmon and seasoning the vegetables separately.
Having the right tools makes all the difference when you’re aiming for a quick and seamless cooking experience.
Elevating Your Dish with Fresh Herbs: A Gardener’s Tip
One of the most rewarding aspects of growing your own herbs is discovering their full potential, including their edible flowers. For instance, the Mexican tarragon I cultivate produces beautiful yellow flowers, as you can see in some of the photos. I often use these delicate springs with their flowers to elegantly garnish plates when serving, adding both visual appeal and a subtle, fresh flavor. While I used both regular and Mexican tarragon in this recipe, their flavors are quite similar, so don’t fret if you can’t find the Mexican variety – regular tarragon will deliver equally fantastic results. Fresh herbs are truly the secret ingredient that elevates a good meal to a great one, especially when their subtle nuances can be enjoyed in every bite.
Tips for a Perfect Sheet Pan Salmon Dinner Every Time
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: For crispy roasted vegetables and perfectly cooked salmon, ensure there’s enough space on the sheet pan. If necessary, use two baking sheets to avoid steaming the vegetables.
- Line your pan: Always line your sheet pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This is the ultimate secret to easy cleanup!
- Marinating time: While 30 minutes is sufficient for the salmon, letting it marinate overnight in the refrigerator will deepen the flavors significantly.
- Check for doneness: Salmon is cooked when it easily flakes with a fork. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is ideal. Overcooked salmon can become dry.
- Evenly sized veggies: Cut your cauliflower florets into similar sizes to ensure they cook evenly and reach that tender-crisp perfection at the same time as the green beans.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
This Sheet Pan Lemon Tarragon Salmon Dinner is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, bell peppers, or even cherry tomatoes. For a different herb profile, consider swapping tarragon for dill or rosemary, though tarragon truly shines with salmon. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes in the marinade would be a fantastic addition.
Serve this vibrant meal on its own for a light, healthy dinner, or pair it with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or a crusty whole-grain bread to soak up the delicious pan juices. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would also complement the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers of this Sheet Pan Salmon Dinner can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven at a lower temperature (around 275°F / 135°C) until heated through, or briefly in the microwave. Be careful not to overcook the salmon during reheating to maintain its moist texture.
I am confident that you are going to absolutely adore this Sheet Pan Salmon Dinner with lemon and tarragon! It’s quickly become a favorite in my home, and I know it will in yours too.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but ensure it’s completely thawed before marinating and cooking. Pat it dry thoroughly to help it crisp up nicely and absorb the marinade better.
What if I don’t have fresh tarragon?
While fresh tarragon provides the best flavor, you can use dried tarragon as a substitute. Use about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of dried tarragon for every tablespoon of fresh, as dried herbs are more concentrated. However, for truly vibrant results, fresh is highly recommended.
Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
You can chop all the vegetables and prepare the salmon marinade a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Marinate the salmon for at least 30 minutes before cooking, or up to 12 hours for deeper flavor. The entire dish is best cooked fresh to enjoy the crispy vegetables and tender salmon.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely! This sheet pan dinner is excellent for meal prepping. Cook the full recipe, then divide portions into airtight containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. It reheats well.
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
Salmon is done when it changes from translucent to opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) when measured with a meat thermometer at the thickest part.
Explore More Delicious Salmon and Fish Recipes
Searching for more fantastic salmon recipes or other seafood inspirations? Look no further! You will undoubtedly enjoy our Dijon Lemon Caper Salmon recipe, which features delightful roasted dill potatoes and green beans—a guaranteed hit for your weekly rotation. And for something truly extraordinary, these Salmon Tacos are an absolute must-try! Topped with a homemade fresh salsa and a creamy cilantro avocado sauce, they are simply amazing!
More Seafood Delights You’ll Love
If you’re a fan of fish and seafood, be sure to check out these other tried-and-true recipes:
- Hearty Fish Chowder
- Quick Skillet Broiled Cod
- Crispy Beer Battered Fish
- Classic Baked Salmon
- Sweet & Savory Maple Soy Salmon
- Flavorful Cedar Plank Salmon
- Simple Lemon Salmon
Sheet Pan Lemon Tarragon Salmon Dinner
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 1 pound salmon 1 piece or filets
Salmon Marinade:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 medium lemon sliced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh chopped tarragon
- ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon fresh ground pepper plus more for serving
- optional: 1-2 cloves garlic peeled, crushed and chopped
- optional: dot with 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Side Vegetables:
- ½ head cauliflower washed, chopped into 1/2-3/4 width florets
- 12 ounces green beans washed, ends snipped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1-2 teaspoons kosher salt
Instructions
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Prepare Your Sheet Pan: Line a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup, then set it aside.
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Make the Salmon Marinade:
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In a medium-large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon slices, balsamic vinegar, fresh chopped tarragon, fresh chopped parsley, kosher salt, fresh ground pepper, and optional chopped garlic. Add the salmon to this marinade, ensuring it’s well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or for an even deeper flavor, cover and refrigerate overnight.
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Prepare the Side Vegetables:
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In a separate large mixing bowl (or two if you prefer to keep the vegetables spaced out), combine the washed and chopped green beans, cauliflower florets, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1-2 teaspoons of kosher salt. Toss everything until the vegetables are evenly coated. Set aside while the salmon marinates.
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Assemble and Bake: Once the salmon has finished marinating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the marinated salmon in the center of your prepared sheet pan. Pour any remaining marinade over the salmon. Arrange some of the lemon slices directly on top of the salmon. If desired, dot the salmon with 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter for an extra rich flavor. Arrange the seasoned green beans and cauliflower florets around the salmon in a single, even layer. If your pan is too crowded, use a second sheet pan to ensure the vegetables roast rather than steam. Bake for approximately 30 minutes in the preheated oven. To check for doneness, the salmon should easily flake with a fork, or reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) with a meat thermometer. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, healthy meal!
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.
