Sheet Pan Salmon and Bell Pepper Dinner Recipe

Name: Sheet Pan Salmon and Bell Pepper Dinner
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 (3 ounce) fillets salmon fillets; 2 red bell peppers, chopped; 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, sliced; 6 tablespoons lemon juice; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons water; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; 5 cloves garlic; 1.5 teaspoons salt; 1.5 teaspoons red pepper flakes; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 0.5 bunch fresh parsley, chopped; 1 lemon, sliced

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Salmon with Lemon Maple Sauce

Ingredients (4 servings)

2 tablespoons olive oil
4 (3 ounce) salmon fillets
2 red bell peppers, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, sliced

Sauce:

6 tablespoons lemon juice
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon maple syrup
5 cloves garlic
1 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoons red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon ground cumin
bunch fresh parsley, chopped
1 lemon, sliced

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 400F (200C).
Grease a sheet pan with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
Place the salmon fillets, red and yellow bell peppers, and onion onto the prepared sheet pan.
In a small bowl, combine lemon juice, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, water, maple syrup, garlic, salt, red pepper flakes, cumin, and parsley.
Drizzle about two-thirds of the sauce over the ingredients on the sheet pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve the dish with lemon slices and the remaining sauce.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 337
Fat: 23g (29% DV)
Saturated Fat: 3g (17% DV)
Cholesterol: 47mg (16% DV)
Sodium: 921mg (40% DV)
Total Carbohydrates: 17g (6% DV)
Dietary Fiber: 4g (13% DV)
Total Sugars: 7g
Protein: 19g (38% DV)
Vitamin C: 121mg (135% DV)
Calcium: 66mg (5% DV)
Iron: 2mg (13% DV)
Potassium: 748mg (16% DV)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your needs. Nutritional information is based on available data and may not include all ingredients.

This easy-to-make dish is a perfect weeknight dinner option. Combining succulent salmon with vibrant bell peppers, sweet onions, and a tangy maple-cumin sauce, this Sheet Pan Salmon and Bell Pepper Dinner is a healthy and flavorful choice for busy families. Here's more about the dish, its history, regional variations, and interesting facts.

Origin and History of the Dish

The concept of baking salmon with vegetables has been around for centuries, especially in coastal cultures where fresh fish is abundant. However, the modern version of the sheet pan meal, a quick and easy dinner method, became popular in the 2010s. It emphasizes simplicity and minimal cleanup, making it ideal for families and busy individuals. The use of bell peppers and onions complements the salmon perfectly, creating a satisfying dish with just a few ingredients.

Regional Variations and Influences

This dish can be found in various forms across the world, particularly in Mediterranean and North American cuisine. In Mediterranean regions, similar recipes often feature fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, and dill. In North America, the combination of salmon and vegetables is often paired with ingredients such as maple syrup, which adds a touch of sweetness. The use of cumin, red pepper flakes, and parsley in this recipe gives it a subtle spiciness, which is characteristic of many Southern and Southwestern U.S. dishes.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

What sets this recipe apart from other salmon dishes is its simplicity and the way its prepared all on one sheet pan. Unlike grilled or pan-fried salmon, which requires more attention to cooking time and technique, this sheet pan method bakes the ingredients at once, ensuring a moist, flaky salmon fillet with roasted vegetables. Additionally, the drizzle of maple syrup and the unique combination of cumin and red pepper flakes offer a distinctive flavor profile that differentiates this dish from other baked fish recipes.

Where Is It Usually Served?

This dish is ideal for casual dinners and weeknight meals. It's frequently served in homes across the United States and Canada, especially where salmon is a common ingredient. It can also be found in meal prep services and restaurants focusing on quick, healthy meals. The sheet pan approach makes it a perfect choice for family dinners, as it requires little preparation and cleanup. Many people serve it with a side of rice, quinoa, or a light salad to round out the meal.

Interesting Facts

Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function.
The use of maple syrup in savory dishes like this one is a unique North American twist, adding depth and a slight sweetness to the overall flavor.
Bell peppers, which are used in this dish, come in a variety of colors, each offering a different taste. Red peppers are the sweetest, while green peppers have a more bitter taste.
The sheet pan dinner method has gained popularity for its convenience and efficiency, allowing for easy clean-up after meals.

This Sheet Pan Salmon and Bell Pepper Dinner is more than just a meal; its an embodiment of convenience, flavor, and nutrition. The ease of preparation combined with the delightful combination of ingredients makes it a go-to recipe for those seeking a healthy, delicious dinner on busy nights.

FAQ about Sheet Pan Salmon and Bell Pepper Dinner Recipe

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, but note that reheating salmon can sometimes affect its texture.

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Store the salmon and vegetables in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

Yes, you can substitute the salmon with other fish like cod, tilapia, or trout. Adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the fish you choose.

You can substitute bell peppers with other vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or broccoli. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.

To make the dish spicier, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a chopped fresh chili, such as jalapeño or serrano. You can also add a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

You can prep the vegetables and the sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to bake the salmon fresh to ensure the best texture.

To prevent the salmon from drying out, bake it until just cooked through, around 10-15 minutes depending on the thickness. You can also check with a fork to see if it flakes easily. Avoid overbaking.

Yes, you can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave syrup. Adjust the amount depending on your sweetness preference.

This salmon dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or roasted potatoes. You can also serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a lighter meal.

Yes, you can omit the red pepper flakes. The dish will still be flavorful thanks to the garlic, lemon, and cumin, but it will be milder in taste.

Comments

Ruth Roberts

04/18/2024 08:18:06 PM

I didn't have red pepper flakes, so I substituted with Chipotle spice. I used dried parsley flakes instead of fresh and skipped the onion, but added zucchini slices. Cooking at an altitude of 9700 ft, it only took about 20 minutes. The dish turned out beautifully and I will definitely make it again, although it was a bit too salty - perhaps due to the added spice. The zucchini was a wonderful addition.

Janet White

05/03/2025 07:29:08 PM

Salmon Perfection! My husband adored the delicate texture of the baked salmon paired with the crispy onions and bell peppers. I particularly savored the zesty kick from the lemon juice and the vibrant hues that the peppers brought to the dish. Baking the salmon alongside the veggies and sauce created a moist, flaky, and utterly delicious meal that we couldn't get enough of. The garlic flavor is bold, so next time I may opt for less garlic, roasted garlic, or sauté it in butter and/or oil beforehand. I made some slight adjustments: I cooked the dish on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper, included yellow bell peppers, minced the garlic, baked for 11 minutes, then turned off the oven and let it sit for an additional 4-5 minutes.

Kelly King

02/06/2025 06:27:56 AM

We absolutely adore the blend of flavors in this recipe. It has quickly become a go-to favorite due to its simplicity and deliciousness. To make it a more substantial meal, I added asparagus, which paired perfectly with the sauce, peppers, and salmon. Being a fan of spicy food, I increased the red pepper flakes to 2 tsp and opted for spray shortening instead of olive oil for the pan. I skipped the water in the sauce, utilized all of it on the sheet pan ingredients, used over 1 lb of salmon, baked it for 20 minutes, and found that the sauce provided enough lemon flavor, so we didn't need to add extra lemon.

Victoria Martin

08/30/2022 09:16:31 PM

I was a bit worried that the bell peppers might not turn out as tender and perfectly cooked as I prefer, so I decided to parboil them for just 5-6 minutes beforehand. And I must say, they turned out absolutely delicious! The peppers that had slipped off the salmon and mingled with the sauce on the baking sheet were exceptional! Next time I make this dish, I plan to generously coat the peppers in the sauce before placing them on top of the salmon. I did reduce the amount of red pepper flakes, but it turned out to be the most delicious salmon I have ever tasted.

Karen Nelson

08/26/2023 07:21:41 AM

Delicious dish! Quick and simple with a subtle taste that complements the salmon well. I opted for sugar-free syrup and added mushrooms for extra flavor. I briefly roasted the veggies before the fish, and I will definitely be making this again.

Margaret Wright

05/01/2024 04:43:36 AM

Extremely tasty and delightful. The only adjustment I made was reducing the amount of red pepper flakes to just 3/4 teaspoon. I'm glad I did, as it would have been too spicy for our sensitive taste buds. I will definitely be making this recipe again!

Jacob Scott

09/30/2023 09:21:16 AM

Fantastic meal! I didn't have yellow peppers on hand, so I used asparagus instead - Delicious! Definitely planning to make it for my guests!

Elizabeth Hall

04/30/2023 08:54:42 PM

Delicious! We used dill instead of parsley and omitted the water in the sauce. The dish turned out incredibly tasty!

Edward Gomez

08/19/2023 08:28:26 PM

My children and I absolutely adored this recipe - it's definitely a keeper. The only change I would make is to roast the veggies in the oven before baking the fish, as my veggies weren't fully cooked when the fish was done. Still, it was absolutely delicious!

Jeffrey Perez

03/30/2024 04:10:02 PM

I reduced the chili flakes to 1 teaspoon, and it turned out too spicy for my liking. Next time, I'll try using just 1/2 teaspoon or less to better appreciate the flavors. I cooked it for 20 minutes to make sure the vegetables were fully cooked.

Victoria Miller

08/22/2023 06:11:25 AM

Great Salmon recipe! You can customize it with your favorite ingredients. I opted for green bell peppers and onions instead of red or yellow peppers. I skipped the red pepper flakes to keep it mild. Definitely will be making this again!

Ronald Martinez

02/09/2025 07:58:56 PM

I absolutely adore the slight kick in the sauce. It was so delicious and will definitely be my new favorite choice.

Mary Lee

03/07/2025 04:53:42 AM

A delightful surprise! I paired it with pierogies and everyone went back for more.

Jessica Moore

07/19/2023 12:23:00 AM

Great simple and quick recipe! I added a touch of my special 18-year-aged balsamic vinegar after taking it out of the oven, right before serving. It elevated all the flavors perfectly.

Aaron Nelson

10/27/2023 12:35:46 PM

This recipe was simple and flavorful. The roasted peppers were cooked to perfection, enhancing their natural sweetness. I omitted the onion due to lack of availability, but it didn't seem to affect the dish. The salmon was tender and flaky, and the sauce packed a punch with the red pepper flakes. Served over rice, it made for a delightful meal.

Diane Ramirez

03/05/2024 12:21:52 AM

I found it to be bland even with all the sauce ingredients. I sampled it before adding it to the fish and vegetables, and felt it needed more flavor. I tried enhancing it with soy sauce, orange juice, and lime juice, but it was still beyond redemption.

Elizabeth Cruz

05/05/2024 07:06:36 PM

Superb! It was a hit even with the kids!

Mark Ramirez

10/21/2023 02:59:31 AM

This dish was absolutely delightful and incredibly simple to prepare. I paired it with some rice. I will definitely be whipping this up again.

Emma Lee

09/01/2022 12:55:29 PM

Straightforward, effortless, and incredibly delicious. I've prepared this dish multiple times and it never fails to please!

Joyce Baker

01/05/2024 05:23:01 PM

The salmon dish was wonderfully light and nutritious. It was incredibly simple to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner. I incorporated fresh corn kernels and juicy tomatoes, elevating it into a delightful summer meal. I will definitely be making this again.

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Sheet Pan Salmon and Bell Pepper Dinner Recipe