Garlic Butter Salmon with Roasted Sweet Potato & Green Beans Recipe

Imagine coming home after a long day to a warm, comforting dinner that feels indulgent yet wholesome. This Garlic Butter Salmon with Roasted Sweet Potato & Green Beans is the perfect weeknight meal to bring the family together or impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Inspired by the classic flavors of coastal cuisine, this recipe combines buttery, garlicky salmon with naturally sweet roasted potatoes and crisp-tender green beans, offering a balanced plate bursting with flavor and nutrition.

Whether it’s a cozy evening in with your loved ones, a simple but elegant dinner for friends, or a healthy meal prep option for the week, this recipe is versatile enough to fit any occasion. The roasted vegetables add a hearty, homey touch, while the salmon remains flaky and tender, ensuring each bite is satisfying and flavorful.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh sprigs

• ½ teaspoon salt, adjust to taste

• ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, plus extra wedges for serving

• Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that both the salmon and vegetables roast evenly, creating a lightly caramelized exterior while keeping the salmon tender inside. While waiting for the oven to reach the correct temperature, prepare your baking sheet. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This step is essential to prevent the salmon or vegetables from sticking to the pan and makes cleanup a breeze afterward. If you don’t have parchment paper or a silicone mat, lightly greasing the pan with oil will also work, but lining is highly recommended for best results.

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes take longer to cook than green beans or salmon, so it’s best to start with them. Peel and cube two medium sweet potatoes into roughly 1-inch pieces to ensure even roasting. Place the cubed sweet potatoes into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over them, then season with 1 teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Toss thoroughly so each cube is evenly coated with oil and spices. This coating not only adds flavor but also helps the potatoes crisp up in the oven. Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes on one side of the lined baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them for 15 minutes, stirring halfway through the cooking time to ensure even caramelization on all sides.

Prepare the Green Beans

While the sweet potatoes are roasting, it’s time to prep the green beans. Trim the ends and rinse 1 pound of fresh green beans. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps them roast properly rather than steam. Place the green beans in a medium bowl, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season lightly with salt and pepper. Toss until they are evenly coated. Set the green beans aside for now; they will be added to the sheet pan after the sweet potatoes have started cooking. Preparing them while the sweet potatoes roast saves time and ensures everything can go into the oven together efficiently.

Mix Garlic Butter for Salmon

In a small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of melted butter, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme (or 1–2 sprigs of fresh thyme), and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Stir well to combine, creating a fragrant garlic butter mixture. This butter will not only infuse the salmon with rich flavor but also help keep the fillets moist during roasting. If desired, you can add a pinch of black pepper or a dash of smoked paprika for extra depth. Set the garlic butter aside until you are ready to add it to the salmon.

Add Salmon to the Sheet Pan

Once the sweet potatoes have roasted for 15 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Push the sweet potatoes to one side of the pan to make room for the salmon fillets. Place the 4 salmon fillets on the empty side of the pan, skin side down if applicable. Brush the garlic butter generously over the tops of the salmon fillets, making sure to coat each piece evenly. Don’t skimp on the butter—it will melt during roasting, flavor the salmon beautifully, and help it stay tender and juicy.

Add Green Beans to the Sheet Pan

Now, arrange the prepared green beans around the salmon or in the remaining empty spaces on the baking sheet. Drizzle a little additional garlic butter or olive oil over the green beans for extra flavor and to help them roast evenly. Make sure the vegetables are in a single layer and not crowded together. Crowding can cause steaming instead of roasting, which will result in softer, less flavorful vegetables.

Roast Everything Together

Return the sheet pan to the oven and roast for an additional 12–15 minutes. The salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork. The green beans should be crisp-tender, and the sweet potatoes should be golden and caramelized on the edges. Check on the vegetables halfway through to ensure they roast evenly, giving them a gentle stir if needed.

Optional Broil for Extra Crispiness

For a finishing touch, switch your oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes. This step adds a beautiful caramelized finish to both the salmon and vegetables. Keep a close eye during broiling, as things can burn quickly.

Serve and Garnish

Remove the sheet pan from the oven and transfer the salmon fillets, roasted sweet potatoes, and green beans to serving plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for color and a pop of freshness. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over the salmon for added brightness and flavor. This makes a visually stunning and delicious meal that is sure to impress at any dinner table.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

• Yield: 4 servings

Notes

• Salmon Selection: Choose fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best flavor. Wild-caught salmon tends to be richer in taste, while farmed salmon is more affordable and widely available.

• Vegetable Variations: Swap green beans for asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts if preferred. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure even roasting.

• Garlic Butter Substitute: For a lighter option, use olive oil with garlic and herbs instead of butter.

• Make It Ahead: Prepare the garlic butter and chop vegetables ahead of time for a quicker assembly. The recipe is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or a fresh green salad to make it a complete, balanced meal.

Why This Recipe Works

This Garlic Butter Salmon with Roasted Sweet Potato & Green Beans is the perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and ease. The rich, garlicky butter enhances the natural taste of the salmon, while roasting the vegetables brings out their sweetness and earthy undertones. Using a single sheet pan minimizes cleanup and makes weeknight dinners stress-free.

The combination of protein from the salmon, complex carbs from the sweet potatoes, and fiber from the green beans creates a satisfying, well-rounded meal. Lemon juice adds brightness, cutting through the richness of the butter and salmon. Fresh parsley as a garnish not only enhances presentation but also adds a hint of freshness.

Tips for Perfect Roasted Salmon and Vegetables

1. Even Sizing: Cut sweet potatoes into uniform cubes to ensure even roasting.

2. Pat Salmon Dry: Removing moisture from the fillets helps achieve a golden crust.

3. Space the Ingredients: Avoid overcrowding the sheet pan to allow proper roasting and caramelization.

4. Timing Is Key: Start roasting the denser vegetables like sweet potatoes first, then add the salmon and green beans later to prevent overcooking.

5. Season Generously: Don’t skimp on herbs, salt, and pepper—they elevate every bite.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Garlic Butter Salmon: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a subtle kick.

• Maple-Glazed Sweet Potatoes: Toss the sweet potato cubes in a tablespoon of maple syrup before roasting for added sweetness.

• Mediterranean Twist: Sprinkle olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese over the roasted vegetables for a Mediterranean-inspired plate.

• Herb-Infused Butter: Mix in fresh dill, basil, or tarragon into the butter for a fresh, aromatic flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

• Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential vitamins like B12 and D.

• Sweet Potatoes: Excellent source of fiber, vitamin A, potassium, and antioxidants.

• Green Beans: Low-calorie vegetable packed with vitamin C, K, and folate.

• Garlic and Herbs: Boosts flavor naturally while providing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

This recipe combines indulgence with health benefits, making it an ideal dinner choice for anyone looking to eat well without sacrificing flavor.

Meal Prep and Storage

• Make-Ahead: Chop vegetables and prepare garlic butter up to a day in advance. Keep separate until ready to roast.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain crispness of the vegetables.

• Freezing: Cooked salmon doesn’t freeze well as it can become dry. It’s better to freeze raw, vacuum-sealed fillets and cook fresh when ready.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with quinoa, couscous, or wild rice for a hearty, satisfying meal.

• Serve alongside a light mixed greens salad with a simple vinaigrette for added freshness.

• Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce for a creamy, tangy element.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but ensure it is fully thawed before roasting. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture for a better sear.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free butter and seasonings.

Can I cook everything on separate pans?
Yes, if you prefer, you can roast the vegetables and salmon on separate baking sheets to ensure even cooking. This is particularly helpful if your oven has hot spots.

How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should be opaque in the center and flake easily with a fork. If using a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I use other types of fish?
Yes, thicker fillets of cod, halibut, or trout can be substituted. Adjust cooking times depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Garlic Butter Salmon with Roasted Sweet Potato & Green Beans Recipe

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Garlic Butter Salmon with Roasted Sweet Potato & Green Beans is a simple yet elegant dinner that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Flaky, buttery salmon pairs perfectly with sweet, caramelized potatoes and crisp-tender green beans, creating a wholesome, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and impressive to serve.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh sprigs

• ½ teaspoon salt, adjust to taste

• ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, plus extra wedges for serving

• Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

• In a large bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on one side of the baking sheet. Roast for 15 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.

• While the sweet potatoes begin roasting, toss the green beans with 1 tablespoon olive oil, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Set aside until the initial roasting of the sweet potatoes is complete.

• In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, thyme, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.

• Remove the baking sheet from the oven after the sweet potatoes have roasted for 15 minutes. Push the sweet potatoes to one side and place the salmon fillets on the other side. Brush the garlic butter generously over the salmon fillets.

• Arrange the green beans around the salmon or in the remaining space on the sheet pan. Drizzle with a little more garlic butter or olive oil if desired.

• Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C) and flakes easily with a fork, and the green beans are crisp-tender.

• For a slightly caramelized finish, switch the oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning the vegetables or salmon.

• Remove the sheet pan from the oven. Transfer the salmon, sweet potatoes, and green beans to serving plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

• Choose high-quality salmon fillets for the best flavor; wild-caught salmon has a richer taste, while farmed salmon is more widely available and affordable.

• You can substitute green beans with asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts; adjust roasting time as needed.

• For a lighter option, use olive oil with garlic and herbs instead of butter.

• Make-ahead tip: Prepare garlic butter and chop vegetables in advance to save time.

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to maintain texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes

Michelle Davis