Mary Berry Salmon Tray Bake Recipe

The Mary Berry Salmon Tray Bake is a beautifully simple and healthy meal, combining tender salmon fillets with a medley of roasted vegetables, all cooked together on one tray. It’s full of color, flavor, and texture—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed family meal. With lemon, herbs, and olive oil adding freshness and depth, this dish captures the best of effortless home cooking in true Mary Berry style.

What Is Mary Berry Salmon Tray Bake?

Mary Berry’s Salmon Tray Bake is a one-pan recipe featuring salmon fillets roasted alongside vegetables such as potatoes, cherry tomatoes, and asparagus. Everything is seasoned with olive oil, herbs, and a splash of lemon for brightness. The result is a complete, well-balanced meal that’s hearty, nourishing, and minimal on cleanup.

Other Mary Berry Salmon Recipes

• Mary Berry Salmon Terrine
• Mary Berry Salmon Mousse
• Mary Berry Salmon Fish Cakes
• Mary Berry Salmon Risotto
• Mary Berry Salmon Fish Cakes
• Mary Berry Salmon en Croûte
• Mary Berry Salmon with Lemon Sauce

Why This Recipe Is Worth Trying

• One-tray convenience – Less washing up, more flavor.
• Nutritious and balanced – Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
• Quick to prepare – Ideal for busy evenings.
• Customizable ingredients – Easily adaptable to your taste.
• Perfectly roasted salmon – Moist and flaky every time.

Essential Ingredients to Make Mary Berry Salmon Tray Bake

• 4 salmon fillets (about 150g each)
• 400g baby potatoes, halved
• 200g cherry tomatoes
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp dried mixed herbs or fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges and fresh parsley, for serving

Handy Kitchen Tools for Best Results

• Large roasting tray or baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs or a spatula
• Knife and chopping board
• Baking parchment (optional for easier cleanup)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mary Berry Salmon Tray Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a large roasting tray with parchment paper if desired to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Place the halved baby potatoes, red onion, and bell pepper onto the tray. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and mixed herbs, then toss to coat evenly. Roast for 20 minutes until slightly golden and tender.

Step 3: Prepare the Salmon Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture adds flavor and helps the salmon stay moist while roasting.

Step 4: Add Salmon and Remaining Vegetables

Remove the tray from the oven and push the roasted vegetables to the sides. Place the salmon fillets in the center and drizzle each with the prepared lemon dressing. Add cherry tomatoes and asparagus around the salmon for extra color and freshness.

Step 5: Roast the Salmon

Return the tray to the oven and roast for another 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking to keep the fish tender and juicy.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, drizzle any leftover dressing or pan juices over the salmon and vegetables. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges.

What I Got Wrong (And How I Fixed It)

• Salmon turned dry: Reduced cooking time and added olive oil for moisture.
• Potatoes undercooked: Pre-roasted them for 20 minutes before adding the fish.
• Uneven browning: Spread ingredients in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
• Too bland: Added Dijon mustard and herbs to lift the flavor.

Healthier Version of Mary Berry Salmon Tray Bake

Use less oil by brushing it lightly on the vegetables instead of drizzling. Replace potatoes with sweet potatoes or cauliflower florets for extra nutrients. Skip honey for a low-sugar version, and use olive oil spray for a lighter meal.

Ingredient Substitutions for Mary Berry Salmon Tray Bake

• Salmon: Substitute with cod, trout, or sea bass.
• Asparagus: Swap for green beans or tenderstem broccoli.
• Potatoes: Use courgettes or butternut squash for a lighter alternative.
• Lemon juice: Replace with lime juice for a tangy twist.
• Honey: Use maple syrup or skip for a sugar-free version.

Pairing Ideas: What to Serve With Mary Berry Salmon Tray Bake

• Green salad – Adds freshness and crunch.
• Garlic bread – Complements the roasted vegetables.
• Steamed rice – Makes it more filling.
• Creamy dill sauce – Enhances the salmon’s flavor.
• White wine – A crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly.

Expert Tips for Perfect Mary Berry Salmon Tray Bake

• Choose even-sized fillets: Ensures even cooking.
• Roast vegetables first: Gives them a head start before adding the salmon.
• Don’t overcrowd the tray: Helps everything roast instead of steaming.
• Add salmon last: Prevents overcooking while keeping it moist.
• Use fresh herbs: Dill, parsley, or thyme lifts the flavor beautifully.
• Add lemon at the end: Keeps it bright and zesty.
• Check doneness early: Salmon cooks quickly; 12–15 minutes is usually enough.

Creative Ways to Customize Mary Berry Salmon Tray Bake

• Add Mediterranean flair: Include olives, artichokes, and cherry tomatoes.
• Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or paprika for extra warmth.
• Add a creamy touch: Stir a dollop of crème fraîche or pesto into the vegetables after roasting.
• Add nuts: Sprinkle pine nuts or almonds before serving for crunch.
• Try Asian-inspired: Replace herbs with soy sauce and ginger.
• Include citrus slices: Roast lemon slices under the salmon for aromatic flavor.

Storing Mary Berry Salmon Tray Bake the Right Way

• Cool completely before storing.
• Refrigerate up to 2 days in an airtight container.
• Separate salmon from vegetables to maintain texture.
• Do not freeze vegetables, as they lose their crispness.

How to Reheat Salmon Tray Bake (If Needed)

• Oven method: Reheat at 180°C (350°F) for 8–10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave method: Heat on low power for 1–2 minutes to avoid drying.
• Air fryer method: Reheat at 160°C (320°F) for 5–6 minutes for a crisp finish.

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 380mg

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FAQs

How do I keep salmon moist in a tray bake?

To keep salmon moist, avoid overcooking and always add a bit of olive oil or marinade before baking. Covering the tray loosely with foil for part of the cooking time also helps trap steam, keeping the fish tender and juicy.

Should I put salmon skin side up or down in a tray bake?

Place the salmon skin side down on the tray. This helps protect the flesh from direct heat, preventing it from drying out while allowing the skin to crisp up slightly.

Can I cook vegetables and salmon together in the same tray?

Yes, but start roasting harder vegetables like potatoes or carrots first for 15–20 minutes before adding the salmon. This ensures everything cooks evenly and the fish stays perfectly tender.

How do I know when the salmon tray bake is done?

Salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque in the center. The internal temperature should reach around 63°C (145°F). Overcooking will make it dry, so check a few minutes early for best results.

Wrapping It Up

The Mary Berry Salmon Tray Bake is a wonderful mix of simplicity, nutrition, and flavor. With perfectly roasted vegetables and flaky, lemony salmon, it’s a wholesome dish that proves weeknight dinners can be both easy and elegant.