Looking for a quick and delicious dinner that will impress your taste buds and your dinner guests? Dive into the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with our Lemon Thyme Salmon with Zucchini! This dish not only boasts a delightful combination of zesty lemon and fragrant thyme but also comes together in just 20 minutes. Perfectly baked salmon served on a bed of tender zucchini makes for a healthy, mouthwatering meal that’s as beautiful as it is tasty. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe will elevate your weeknight dinners and leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a better sear and crispy exterior.
- Slice the zucchini into thin, uniform rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick to ensure even cooking.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, fresh lemon juice, chopped thyme, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
- Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, creating a bed for the salmon.
- Place the salmon fillets on top of the zucchini slices, skin-side down if applicable.
- Brush the salmon and zucchini generously with the prepared lemon-thyme marinade, ensuring even coverage.
- Sprinkle additional fresh thyme leaves and a pinch of salt and pepper over the fish and vegetables.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with additional fresh thyme and a lemon wedge before serving.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh thyme and a juicy lemon. Fresh herbs can make a significant difference in the overall taste of the dish.
- Prep Ahead: To save time, slice your zucchini and prepare the marinade in advance. This way, when you’re ready to cook, you can simply assemble and bake.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Make sure the zucchini and salmon have enough space on the baking sheet. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that coveted crispy texture on the salmon.
- Check for Doneness: Salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it in the oven to avoid overcooking.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add a pinch of garlic powder or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra kick.
- Serve with a Side: Pair this dish with a simple salad or some quinoa for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 34g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 95mg
