Baked Lemon Paprika One Pan Salmon Dinner: A Salmon Dinner The Family Will Love
When the day’s been long, loud, and layered with chaos, there’s something comforting about a simple, easy baked salmon dinner that doesn’t ask too much of you—but still delivers everything you need. This baked lemon salmon recipe is the kind of go-to meal that busy moms can count on. It’s wholesome, flavorful, and fast—plus cleanup is a dream thanks to the magic of a foil-lined baking pan.
Tonight’s dinner is brought to you by one sheet pan, one lemon, a sprinkle of paprika, and one quiet victory. No stove, no mess, no stress.
Why This Is My Go-To Easy Baked Salmon Recipe
The heart of this recipe is fresh salmon fillets, lightly coated in olive oil, dusted with smoked paprika, and topped with lemon zest and butter. Alongside it, you’ll find tender asparagus spears roasting to perfection—no fuss, no hovering. Just an easy baked salmon dinner that works every single time.
While the oven hums and dinner roasts, I take back 15–20 minutes for myself. It’s just enough time to exhale, wipe the counters, or sneak in a moment of quiet (a true luxury in my house!).
And when that timer dings? Dinner is done. The lemon salmon is juicy, flaky, and kissed with flavor, and the veggies are tender with a perfect little crisp. It’s healthy, satisfying, and best of all—the whole meal is made in one pan.
Let’s Talk Substitutions and Veggie Swaps
The beauty of this one pan salmon dinner is how flexible it is. No asparagus? Try:
- Broccoli florets
- Zucchini slices
- Bell peppers
- Cherry tomatoes
No lemon? A splash of balsamic vinegar or a drizzle of honey mustard glaze makes a great stand-in.
No smoked paprika? Use regular paprika, garlic powder, or a touch of cumin for warmth.
Equipment I Use (Affiliate Links Included – this post contains affiliate links)
- 11-inch Copper Chef Titan Fry Pan: I use this for searing salmon when I’m not baking it.
- ASETY Chef Knife: Perfect for prepping veggies and portioning salmon.
- Vinyl Disposable Food Prep Gloves: Great for seasoning and mess-free handling.
Affiliate disclosure: When you click these links, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thank you for helping inspire the cook behind Camille’s Comforting Cuisine!
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
Meal prep hack: Season your salmon in the morning or even the night before. Store it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Leftovers: Store baked salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Reheat gently in the oven or flake it cold over salads or wraps.
- Leftover asparagus pairs beautifully with scrambled eggs the next morning.
What To Serve With This Easy Baked Salmon
I served mine with asparagus, but this one pan salmon pairs well with:
- Cilantro Lime Rice
- Bok Choy
- Or even our delicious Ratatouille (Coming soon)
Craving a full seafood spread? Pair this with my:
- Creamy Rasta Pasta with Shrimp
- Easy Crusted Lime Snapper (Coming Soon)
The Ultimate Tropical Ham Glaze Recipe for Island VibesAnd if you’re feeling bold, brush a little of my Tropical Ham Glaze over the salmon before baking—it caramelizes beautifully and adds an island twist.
A Final Note From My Kitchen to Yours
Dinner doesn’t have to be dramatic—it just has to work. This lemon salmon recipe is one of those quiet wins that reminds you: You’ve got this. Whether you’re feeding toddlers, teens, or just yourself, this baked salmon recipe brings peace, flavor, and simplicity to the table.
If this recipe brought a little calm to your chaos, help inspire the cook and support the blog!
Until next time—stay golden, keep it saucy, and always season with love.
With flavor and fewer dishes,
Camille
Lemon Paprika Salmon and Asparagus
2
servings5
minutes15
minutes20
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
1 large salmon fillet (about 12 oz, serves 2)
1 bunch asparagus, ends trimmed
1 ½ tbsp olive oil (divided)
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt (or to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
1 tsp dried parsley (or fresh, finely chopped)
2 tbsp melted butter
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim 2 inches off the ends of the asparagus and spread them on one side of a foil-lined pan.
- Drizzle the asparagus with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place the salmon fillet next to the asparagus on the same pan.
- Season the salmon with garlic powder, smoked paprika, parsley, and lemon zest.
- Drizzle melted butter over the salmon and asparagus, then squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything.
- Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from the oven, serve, and enjoy your perfectly cooked salmon and tender asparagus!
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