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Sheet Pan Maple Salmon with Roasted Asparagus Recipe

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4 from 36 reviews

This Sheet Pan Maple Salmon with Roasted Asparagus is a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights. The salmon is coated in a sweet and tangy maple syrup glaze enhanced with Dijon mustard, garlic, and smoked paprika, then baked alongside tender asparagus. Finished with fresh lemon juice and parsley, this dish offers a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors all cooked effortlessly on one pan.

Ingredients

Salmon and Glaze

  • 2 pounds salmon slab (skin-on preferred, or 4-5 salmon filets, 6-8 ounces each)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or whole grain mustard)
  • 2 cloves garlic (finely minced or grated)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Asparagus

  • 2 pounds asparagus (washed and trimmed)
  • 1 ½ tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ medium lemon (freshly squeezed juice)

To Serve

  • Cooked rice, noodles, or your favorite starchy side
  • Parsley (roughly chopped)
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Salmon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Place the salmon slab on the baking sheet, season it generously with salt and pepper, and set aside.
  2. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the pure maple syrup, low sodium soy sauce, Dijon mustard, finely minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
  3. Coat the Salmon: Pour half of the prepared glaze over the salmon, using a brush to spread it evenly and thoroughly coat the surface. Reserve the remaining glaze for later use.
  4. Toss the Asparagus: In a medium bowl, combine the trimmed asparagus with olive oil, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Toss until the asparagus is evenly coated with the seasoning.
  5. Arrange on Sheet Pan: Place the prepared asparagus alongside the salmon on the baking sheet. It’s fine if the asparagus overlaps slightly with the salmon to maximize space.
  6. Bake the Salmon and Asparagus: Bake in the preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes until the salmon flakes easily at the thickest part and reaches an internal temperature of about 130-135°F for medium doneness. The asparagus should be tender as well.
  7. Optional Broil for Char: Remove the sheet pan briefly from the oven, switch your oven setting to broil, and return the pan to broil for 1 to 2 minutes. This step will lightly char the salmon and asparagus to add extra flavor. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
  8. Rest and Finish: Allow the salmon and asparagus to rest for 2 to 3 minutes after removing from the oven. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish, then drizzle the reserved glaze over the entire salmon or serve it on individual plates.
  9. Serve: Slice the salmon into portions and serve it with the roasted asparagus alongside your preferred starchy side such as cooked rice, noodles, or potatoes. Garnish with lemon wedges and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top if desired for a bright finish.
  10. Enjoy! This simple yet elegant dish combines sweet maple syrup and smoky paprika with fresh herbs and citrus for a wholesome, satisfying meal made in just one pan.

Notes

  • Skin-on salmon is recommended as it helps keep the fish moist and adds flavor, but skinless filets can also be used.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to your spice preference, omitting if you want a completely mild glaze.
  • Be careful during the broiling step to prevent burning; watch the oven closely as broilers can vary greatly.
  • Leftover glaze can be refrigerated and used as a dipping sauce or drizzled over other dishes.
  • This recipe is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides including quinoa, couscous, or roasted potatoes.
  • Use foil or parchment for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking on the sheet pan.