Baked Salmon with Sweet Potato and Asparagus
Baked salmon with sweet potatoes and asparagus—a quick 35-minute, gluten-free meal with about 400 calories per serving, perfect for a balanced weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Salmon Fillets:
- 4 pieces of wild-caught salmon rich in omega-3 fatty acids
- Look for fillets with a vibrant color and firm texture
Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes peeled and cubed
- These add a natural sweetness and are packed with vitamin A and fiber
Asparagus:
- 1 bunch of fresh asparagus trimmed
- Choose spears that are crisp and bright green for the best taste
Olive Oil:
- 3 –4 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
- A healthy fat that helps bring all the flavors together
Lemon:
- 1 fresh lemon juiced (plus extra wedges for serving)
- Adds a zesty kick and helps balance the rich flavors of the salmon
Garlic:
- 3 cloves of garlic finely minced
- Enhances the dish with a subtle aromatic depth
Fresh Herbs:
- A handful of your choice dill or rosemary work wonderfully
- These herbs provide an extra layer of freshness and aroma
Salt & Pepper:
- To taste for simple seasoning that lets the natural flavors shine
Instructions
Preheat & Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure even cooking and easy cleanup.
Season the Salmon:
- Place your salmon fillets in the center of the baking sheet.
- Drizzle each fillet with olive oil and a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
- Lightly season with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
- Top with sprigs of fresh herbs (dill or rosemary work wonderfully) for an aromatic boost.
Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes and trimmed asparagus spears with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange the vegetables evenly around the salmon, ensuring they’re spread out for consistent roasting.
Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the vegetables are tender with a slight crisp around the edges.
- Pro tip: For a slightly caramelized finish, consider broiling for an extra 2 minutes at the end.
Final Touches & Serving:
- Remove the tray from the oven and garnish with additional fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
- Serve immediately, enjoying the harmonious blend of nutrient-packed ingredients and robust flavors.