If you’re on the lookout for a meal that feels both fresh and indulgent without fussy prep, you have to try this Sheet Pan Blueberry Salmon Recipe. It’s a beautiful harmony of tender, flaky salmon mingling with the juicy burst of blueberries and crisp Brussels sprouts, all baked together in one pan with fragrant basil and zesty lemon. This recipe is pure magic — it brings vibrant colors, bright flavors, and effortless elegance to your dinner table in about 25 minutes. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll wonder how you ever made salmon any other way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Sheet Pan Blueberry Salmon Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding freshness, texture, or a complex flavor twist that elevates the entire dish.
- Salmon fillets: Choose 3 to 4 fillets, ideally fresh, for tender, flaky results packed with omega-3 goodness.
- Brussels sprouts: 2 cups, quartered, to bring a satisfying crunch and earthy balance to the sweet berries and rich fish.
- Kosher salt: Used generously but divided, it seasons the salmon and veggies perfectly without overpowering.
- Fresh blueberries: 1 cup, mashed slightly to release their juice and lend a natural sweetness that’s unexpected but delicious.
- Light olive oil: 1/4 to 1/3 cup, divided, providing smoothness and helping everything crisp and caramelize beautifully.
- Fresh basil: About 1/4 to 1/3 cup chopped, adding a pop of herbal brightness that mingles with the balsamic and lemon.
- Balsamic vinegar: 3 tablespoons, for a sweet-tart depth that complements the blueberries and salmon flawlessly.
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced or 1 teaspoon pre-minced, for a touch of savory warmth.
- Black pepper: A pinch or two creates subtle spice contrast and layers of flavor.
- Lemons: 2 total — one juiced for fresh acidity and one sliced to roast with the veggies for extra citrus aroma.
How to Make Sheet Pan Blueberry Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Salmon and Brussels Sprouts
Start by preheating your oven to 400F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper for an easy clean-up. Place your salmon fillets on the pan, spacing them nicely to allow even cooking. Arrange the quartered Brussels sprouts around the salmon like little green gems waiting to roast. Sprinkle kosher salt over the fish and sprouts; this initial seasoning helps to bring out their natural flavors beautifully.
Step 2: Mix the Blueberry Sauce
In a medium bowl, add the fresh blueberries and lightly mash them with a fork — not completely pureed, just enough so their juices start to flow. Stir in the olive oil, chopped fresh basil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, black pepper, and a small pinch of salt. This sauce is the star of the dish, packing a punch of sweet, tangy, and herbaceous flavors that seep into the salmon while it bakes.
Step 3: Dress and Assemble
Drizzle 2 to 3 tablespoons of olive oil directly over the salmon and Brussels sprouts to encourage crispiness and enhance richness. Then, generously spoon the vibrant blueberry mixture over the salmon fillets, letting some sauce settle onto the sprouts for added flavor. The contrast between juicy blueberries and savory fish is a delightful surprise.
Step 4: Add Lemon and Bake
Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the entire sheet pan for a burst of fresh acidity. Lay the sliced lemon pieces over the Brussels sprouts — these will roast and caramelize, releasing fragrant oils that lift the entire meal. Place the sheet pan in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. For those who love crispy veggies, switch to broil for 1 to 2 minutes at the end, but watch carefully to avoid overcooking the salmon.
Step 5: Serve Right Away
Once out of the oven, your Sheet Pan Blueberry Salmon Recipe is best enjoyed immediately while the salmon is juicy and tender, and the Brussels sprouts still have a bit of bite. The aromas and flavors will be at their peak!
How to Serve Sheet Pan Blueberry Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
A fresh sprinkle of chopped basil or a few whole blueberries scattered on the plate add a beautiful pop of color and freshness. A light drizzle of extra olive oil or a quick twist of black pepper can also elevate the presentation and flavor right before serving.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, complementary sides. Consider serving with fluffy quinoa, a simple wild rice blend, or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious juices. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette also balances the richness of the salmon and the sweetness of the blueberries.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the salmon atop a bed of lightly sautéed spinach or baby arugula tossed in lemon juice for a restaurant-worthy touch. Or plate the Brussels sprouts and salmon with a streak of blueberry sauce from the pan to amplify the visual impact and flavor. For dinner parties, individual portions on slate or wooden boards create a rustic-chic vibe that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sheet Pan Blueberry Salmon Recipe tastes great the next day if stored properly. Place any remaining salmon and Brussels sprouts in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld nicely, but the produce retains enough texture so it’s still enjoyable.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, wrap the salmon and veggies tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 1 month. Just note that the Brussels sprouts might soften a bit more after freezing and thawing, but the salmon will still hold on to its wonderful flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, it’s best to warm the leftovers gently in a 325F oven for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through to keep the salmon moist. Avoid the microwave when possible to prevent the fish from drying out. A quick roast also helps refresh the crispiness of the Brussels sprouts.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries for this Sheet Pan Blueberry Salmon Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them slightly so your sauce doesn’t get too watery.
What type of salmon works best?
Wild-caught salmon is ideal for the best flavor and texture, but farmed salmon fillets work perfectly fine too. Just make sure your fillets are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
Can I substitute the Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! Other sturdy vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli make great alternatives and will roast beautifully alongside the salmon and blueberry sauce.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon flakes easily with a fork and is uniformly opaque in the center when cooked through. The total bake time of about 15 minutes usually results in perfectly tender salmon.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Definitely! It’s nutritious, balanced, and reheats well, making it a great option for preparing lunches or dinners ahead of time.
Final Thoughts
This Sheet Pan Blueberry Salmon Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again, whether for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend meal. It feels fancy without fuss, delivering a vibrant play of flavors that’s surprisingly fresh and satisfying. Give it a try—you’ll love how simple ingredients come together in the most delicious way!
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Sheet Pan Blueberry Salmon Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Sheet Pan Blueberry Salmon recipe is a vibrant and healthy meal featuring tender salmon fillets roasted alongside Brussels sprouts and topped with a fresh blueberry-basil glaze. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, this dish combines the natural sweetness of blueberries with the tang of balsamic vinegar and the zestiness of lemon, making it perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Salmon and Vegetables
- 3 to 4 salmon fillets (4 to 5 ounces each or a 16-ounce fillet)
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, quartered
- Kosher salt, divided
- 2 lemons, one juiced and one sliced
Blueberry Glaze
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup light olive oil, divided
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup chopped fresh basil
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic or 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare sheet pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and arrange the salmon fillets on it. Scatter the quartered Brussels sprouts around the salmon. Season the salmon and Brussels sprouts generously with kosher salt, then set aside while you prepare the glaze.
- Make the blueberry glaze: In a medium bowl, add the fresh blueberries and mash them a few times with a fork to release their juices. Stir in the light olive oil, chopped fresh basil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, black pepper, and a dash of salt until well combined.
- Assemble the dish: Drizzle 2 to 3 tablespoons of olive oil over the salmon and Brussels sprouts to enhance roasting. Spoon the blueberry mixture evenly over the salmon fillets, covering them nicely to infuse flavor during baking.
- Add lemon: Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the salmon and Brussels sprouts for a fresh, citrusy brightness. Place the lemon slices from the second lemon over the Brussels sprouts to roast alongside, adding extra aroma and taste.
- Bake and broil: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. For extra crispy Brussels sprouts, switch to the broil setting for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid overcooking the salmon. Once done, remove from the oven.
- Serve and store: Serve the blueberry salmon immediately, allowing the sweet and savory glaze to complement the tender fish and vegetables. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
- Be careful during broiling; salmon can overcook quickly. Keep a close eye for the final crisping of the Brussels sprouts.
- Use fresh blueberries for the best flavor and texture; frozen blueberries may release too much liquid.
- You can swap Brussels sprouts for other sturdy vegetables like asparagus or green beans if preferred.
- For a dairy-free option, ensure the olive oil used is suitable and avoid adding butter.
- This recipe can be doubled but make sure not to overcrowd the sheet pan for even cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
