Coconut Lemon Basil Salmon Sheet‑Pan Dinner
This Coconut Lemon Basil Salmon Sheet‑Pan Dinner delivers silky salmon, crisp vegetables, and a luscious coconut‑lemon sauce—all cooked together in one pan. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, requires minimal cleanup, and packs a protein punch. Get ready for a vibrant, aromatic meal that looks as good as it tastes!
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6‑oz each, skin on)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 cup sliced bell pepper (mixed colors)
- 1 cup sliced zucchini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup coconut milk (full‑fat)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 teaspoon red‑pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
- Pat salmon fillets dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Set aside.
- On the sheet pan, arrange sliced bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt.
- Place the seasoned salmon fillets on top of the vegetables, skin side down.
- In a small saucepan, combine coconut milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, red‑pepper flakes, and half of the fresh basil. Heat over medium until the mixture begins to simmer (1‑2 minutes).
- Using a spoon, pour the warm coconut‑lemon sauce evenly over salmon fillets and vegetables.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until salmon flakes easily with a fork and vegetables are tender but still bright.
- Remove from oven, garnish with the remaining basil and fresh basil leaves, and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Chef's Note
For an extra pop of color, add a handful of arugula or spinach to the sheet pan during the last 5 minutes of cooking. The basil leaves wilt slightly, adding a fresh herbal note.
Make-Ahead Tips
This dish can be assembled 30 minutes ahead and refrigerated. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes before serving; the flavors meld beautifully.
Substitutions
Swap salmon for tilapia, cod, or mahi‑mahi.,Use Greek yogurt instead of coconut milk for a lighter sauce.,Add diced carrots or broccoli for extra veggies.