Lemon Butter Salmon with Roasted Potatoes & Broccoli Recipe
This Lemon Butter Salmon recipe paired with Roasted Potatoes and Broccoli is a flavorful and balanced meal that’s quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender salmon, crispy roasted potatoes, and crisp broccoli creates a wholesome, satisfying dinner that is not only delicious but also nutritious. In this article, we’ll dive into the recipe in detail, highlighting key techniques, ingredients, and tips to make this meal a success every time.
Why You’ll Love Lemon Butter Salmon with Roasted Potatoes & Broccoli
This meal offers a harmonious balance of protein, healthy fats, and vegetables. The salmon fillets are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and brain function. The roasted potatoes bring a comforting element with their crispy edges and soft interior, while the broccoli is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making this dinner both flavorful and nutrient-dense.
Moreover, the lemon butter sauce adds a tangy, creamy richness to the salmon, making it a perfect complement to the other ingredients. This is a complete, satisfying dinner that you can whip up quickly without compromising on taste or health.
Ingredients for Lemon Butter Salmon with Roasted Potatoes & Broccoli
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Roasted Potatoes:
- 1 pound baby potatoes (or Yukon gold potatoes, cut into wedges)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or rosemary)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Roasted Broccoli:
- 1 bunch broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Roasted Potatoes:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is the ideal temperature for crispy roasted potatoes.
- Cut the Potatoes: Wash and cut the baby potatoes in half or quarters, depending on their size. For larger potatoes like Yukon Gold, cut them into 1-inch wedges.
- Toss with Seasonings: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Ensure the potatoes are evenly coated in the seasoning mixture.
- Roast the Potatoes: Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the potatoes are golden and crispy on the outside, tender on the inside.
2. Prepare the Broccoli:
- Prepare the Broccoli: While the potatoes are roasting, cut the broccoli into florets and rinse them under cold water. Pat dry with a towel.
- Season the Broccoli: Toss the broccoli florets in 1 tablespoon olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (optional).
- Roast the Broccoli: Add the seasoned broccoli to the baking sheet with the potatoes about 15 minutes before the potatoes are done. Roasting the broccoli alongside the potatoes ensures both will finish cooking at the same time. Roast for about 15-18 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and slightly charred.
3. Cook the Lemon Butter Salmon:
- Prep the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt and pepper. You can also squeeze a little lemon juice on top for added flavor.
- Sear the Salmon: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the salmon fillets skin-side down (if your fillets have skin). Sear the salmon for 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving it. This ensures a crispy, golden exterior.
- Flip and Cook: Flip the fillets over gently and reduce the heat to medium. Cook for another 3-4 minutes or until the salmon reaches your desired level of doneness. The salmon should be cooked through but still moist and flaky in the center.
4. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- Melt the Butter: While the salmon is cooking, prepare the lemon butter sauce. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter.
- Add Garlic and Lemon: Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Then add the freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley. Stir to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water to achieve your desired consistency.
5. Assemble the Dish:
- Serve the Salmon: Place each salmon fillet on a plate. Spoon the lemon butter sauce generously over the top of the salmon.
- Plate the Roasted Potatoes and Broccoli: Arrange the crispy roasted potatoes and roasted broccoli around the salmon on the plate. Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
Tips for Success:
- Salmon Freshness: When buying salmon, opt for fresh or frozen wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and texture. Make sure the fillets are vibrant and free from any off-putting smells.
- Choosing Potatoes: Baby potatoes are great for roasting, but you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just adjust the roasting time based on the size of the potato pieces.
- Broccoli Crispiness: To get perfectly roasted broccoli, make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet. The florets need space to roast and caramelize, so use two sheets if necessary.
- Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the broccoli or salmon before serving.
- Substitute Herbs: If you don’t have parsley, dill is a great alternative to complement the lemony flavors of the salmon.
Nutritional Benefits:
This meal is incredibly nutrient-dense. Salmon provides healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support brain function, lower inflammation, and improve heart health. Potatoes offer a good source of potassium, fiber, and vitamin C, while broccoli is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, and contains antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress.
Final Thoughts:
This Lemon Butter Salmon with Roasted Potatoes and Broccoli is a beautifully balanced meal that’s full of flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. The salmon is tender, flaky, and drenched in a rich, citrusy butter sauce, while the roasted potatoes and broccoli add the perfect textures and flavors to complete the plate. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is healthy enough to make on a regular basis. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, heart-healthy dinner in just under an hour!