One-Pan Salmon Tray Bake

If you're looking for an easy dinner that's full of flavour and doesn't leave a mountain of dishes behind, this traybake is the answer. Perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a relaxed weekend supper; and you only need one dish!

Salmon tray bake with colourful roasted vegetables, fresh herbs, and lemon slices

Recipe at a Glance:

• Serves: 3-4 people

• Preparation: 5 minutes

• Cooking: 20-30 minutes

• Total time: Approximately 40 minutes

• Difficulty: Very easy

• Washing up: One baking dish, one saucepan and a few utensils

Ingredients You Will Need

• 250 g tagliatelle pasta (any pasta will do)

• 250-300 g salmon

• 200 g feta

• Cherry tomatoes

• 3-4 garlic cloves

• Spinach

• Olive oil

• 1 tbsp of dill

• 1 tbsp of parsley

• 1 tsp of lemon juice

• Salt & pepper

• Chili flakes

  
  

Tools You Will Need

• Large roasting tray

• Chopping board

• Colander (to drain your pasta)

• Sharp knife

• Measuring spoons

• Saucepan

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / Gas Mark 6. While the oven heats up, grab your large ovenproof baking dish and place it on your worktop. There's no need to preheat the dish or grease it beforehand, as we'll be adding olive oil shortly.

   
   

2. Add everything to the a baking dish of your choice. Wash your 250g cherry tomatoes under cold water and add them to your baking dish. You can leave them whole. Peel 3–4 garlic cloves and finely chop or crush them. Sprinkle the garlic over your tomatoes. Unwrap your 200g block of feta cheese and place it in the middle of the dish, surrounded by the tomatoes. Take your 250–300g salmon fillets, check for any remaining bones and place them in the dish alongside the feta. If your salmon has skin, leave it on for cooking if you prefer. Don't worry about making everything look perfect. The ingredients are all going to be mixed together at the end anyway!

3. Now we're going to season everything before it goes into the oven. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil evenly over the salmon, feta and cherry tomatoes. Next, sprinkle over, 1 tablespoon dried dill, 1 tablespoon dried parsley, ¼ teaspoon chilli flakes (optional, if you like a little heat), a pinch of salt, a few grinds of black pepper and finally, drizzle 1 teaspoon of lemon juice over the salmon. Using a spoon, gently move the tomatoes around to coat them in the oil and herbs. Leave the feta in the centre of the dish so it can soften as it bakes.

   
   

4. Roast for 20-25 minutes in the oven. While it's cooking, the tomatoes will soften and release their juices, the feta will become warm and creamy, and the salmon will cook through.

   
   

5. When your salmon has around 12 minutes left in the oven, it's time to get your pasta cooking. Add your 250g tagliatelle pasta to the boiling water, stir gently so the pasta doesn't stick together. Cook according to the packet instructions, usually around 8–12 minutes, depending on the pasta you're using. Don't rinse your pasta after draining! The starch left on the pasta helps the creamy sauce stick to it.

   
   

6. Using a fork, gently break the salmon into bite-sized pieces. Remove and discard the skin if you don't want it in your pasta. Next, use a spoon or spatula to break apart the softened 200g feta and gently squash some of the roasted 250g cherry tomatoes. The sauce doesn't need to be perfectly smooth. Those little pieces of roasted tomato and feta are what make it delicious!

7. Add your cooked 250g tagliatelle to the baking dish. Using a large spoon or pasta tongs, gently toss everything together until the pasta is coated in your creamy salmon, feta and tomato sauce.

   
   

8. Serve straight from the tray. Divide your creamy salmon pasta between 3 or 4 bowls, or just eat the whole thing. If you're feeling fancy, finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, a squeeze of lemon or a little grated Parmesan.

   
   

FAQs

1. Using frozen salmon? Defrost it thoroughly in the fridge before cooking, and follow the same method once thawed.

   
   

2. Want to save some for tomorrow? Cool any leftovers promptly and refrigerate them in an airtight container within two hours. Eat within 24 hours and reheat thoroughly until piping hot throughout.

   
   

3. Can I make this without feta? Yes! You could try a soft garlic-and-herb cream cheese instead, although the flavour and texture will be different.

   
   

4. Can I use a different type of fish? You can use another firm fish, but cooking times may vary depending on the thickness and type. Always check that it's properly cooked before serving.

   
   

Tips for the Best Salmon Tray Bake

• Use fresh salmon for the best taste and texture.

• If you prefer a crispy skin, place the salmon skin-side down and avoid moving it during cooking.

• Feel free to swap or add vegetables based on seasonality or preference. Asparagus, green beans, or baby potatoes work well.

• Swap pasta for a side of quinoa, couscous, or a simple green salad for a healthier meal.

  
  

Health Benefits of This Meal

Salmon is known for its high omega-3 fatty acid content, which supports heart and brain health. The vegetables provide antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals essential for overall wellness. Cooking everything on one tray with olive oil keeps the dish light but satisfying. This recipe fits well into a balanced diet and supports healthy eating habits, and is only 565 calories per serving, if split into four once cooked.