As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sizzling butter and fresh garlic filled the air, transporting me to a sunlit bistro by the sea. This Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes and Broccoli has become one of my absolute go-to weeknight dinners. Not only is it incredibly quick to whip up—ready in under an hour—but it’s also a delightful, healthy feast the whole family will love. With flaky salmon coated in a luscious lemon sauce, perfectly roasted crispy potatoes, and bright green broccoli, this dish is a satisfying combination of textures and flavors. Plus, it balances wellness and indulgence effortlessly. Curious how to recreate this vibrant plate at home? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is this Salmon Dinner a Must-Try?
Quick Preparation: This Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes and Broccoli can be ready in under an hour, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights.
Vibrant Flavor: The rich combination of buttery lemon sauce and garlicky salmon elevates your dinner experience.
Health-Conscious: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and nutrients from fresh broccoli, this dish promotes a wholesome lifestyle.
Crowd-Pleasing: It’s a hit with both family and friends, appealing to everyone’s palate. Pairs beautifully with light dishes like a fresh salad or rice!
Versatile Veggies: Feel free to swap broccoli for asparagus or green beans to customize it to your taste. So, get ready to elevate your dinner game with this delightful recipe!
Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes and Broccoli Ingredients
For the Salmon
• Salmon fillets (4 x 6 oz) – A rich and flaky protein; feel free to use frozen salmon if needed.
• Unsalted butter (1/4 cup) – Adds a luxurious, silky texture to the lemon sauce.
• Fresh lemon juice (2 tbsp) – Brightens the dish, enhancing the flavor of the salmon.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Infuses the buttery sauce with aromatic goodness.
• Salt and pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning both the salmon and veggies.
For the Crispy Potatoes
• Baby potatoes (1.5 lbs, halved) – Provide a satisfying crunch and heartiness to the meal.
• Olive oil (3 tbsp) – Helps achieve that perfect roasted flavor and texture.
• Garlic powder (1 tsp) – Elevates the flavor of the potatoes with its savory touch.
• Paprika (1 tsp) – Adds a subtle warmth and depth to the potatoes.
For the Broccoli
• Broccoli florets (1 lb) – Nutrient-rich, vibrant green vegetable to brighten the plate.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp) – Coats the broccoli for roasting, ensuring tenderness.
• Lemon zest (1 tsp, optional) – Extra zing to enhance the lemon flavor in this dish.
Get ready to savor the delightful experience of this Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes and Broccoli on your dinner table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes and Broccoli
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature will ensure crispy potatoes and perfectly roasted broccoli. While the oven heats up, prepare the ingredients, so you’re ready to go once things start cooking!
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Toss the halved baby potatoes in a bowl with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure each potato is thoroughly coated in the seasoning mix. Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and get ready to roast them to crispy perfection!
Step 3: Roast the Potatoes
Place the baking sheet with the baby potatoes in the preheated oven and roast for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should start to turn a beautiful golden brown and become tender. The aroma will be irresistible, setting the stage for the rest of your Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes and Broccoli!
Step 4: Add the Broccoli
After the potatoes have roasted for 20 minutes, it’s time to prepare the broccoli. Toss the broccoli florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. Carefully add the broccoli to the baking sheet with the potatoes, spreading them out evenly. Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes.
Step 5: Roast the Vegetables
Continue roasting the potatoes and broccoli together for another 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are crispy and the broccoli is tender. You’ll want the potatoes to be golden brown and the broccoli vibrant green, indicating they’re perfectly cooked—just the way you want for your lemon butter dinner!
Step 6: Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce
While the veggies roast, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, stir in the fresh lemon juice, along with salt and pepper to taste, creating a rich, zesty sauce.
Step 7: Cook the Salmon
Next, place your salmon fillets skin-side down into the skillet with the lemon butter sauce. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Gently flip the salmon and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork—signals that it’s perfectly done!
Step 8: Plate and Serve
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Plate the crispy potatoes and tender broccoli alongside the seasoned salmon. Drizzle the luscious lemon butter sauce generously over the salmon, and garnish with lemon slices and chopped parsley for a beautiful presentation. Your Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes and Broccoli is ready to be enjoyed!
Expert Tips for Lemon Butter Salmon
Marinating Magic: Marinate the salmon in lemon juice and minced garlic for 30 minutes before cooking to enhance flavor and tenderness.
Check for Doneness: Ensure the salmon is cooked through by checking for flakiness with a fork—internal temperature should be 145°F (63°C).
Avoid Soggy Potatoes: Spread the potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet to achieve that perfect crispy texture, avoiding overcrowding.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and real lemon juice for the best flavor in your lemon butter sauce—it makes all the difference!
Prep Ahead: To save time on busy nights, prepare the components in advance and refrigerate separately until ready to cook.
Customize Veggies: Feel free to swap out broccoli for other veggies like asparagus or green beans to bring variety to your Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes and Broccoli.
What to Serve with Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes and Broccoli
Transform your delightful dinner into a full meal experience with these perfect pairings!
-
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Complete the comfort with its velvety texture and rich flavor, enhancing the buttery sauce of the salmon.
-
Quinoa Salad: This nutty, fluffy salad brimming with fresh vegetables adds a delightful crunch and complements the meal’s nutritional profile beautifully.
-
Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender and vibrant, these sautéed green beans offer a fresh balancing bite next to the rich flavors of the salmon.
-
Citrusy Coleslaw: A bright and zesty slaw adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the savory notes of the salmon dish.
-
Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach brings a tender, vibrant green element that elevates your plate while enhancing the dish’s healthful aspects.
-
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this crisp white wine beautifully highlights the lemony notes and complements the rich flavors of the salmon.
-
Lemon Sorbet: End your meal on a refreshing note with this zesty dessert, providing a light finish that echoes the main dish’s citrusy undertones.
-
Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice infused with fresh herbs adds a wholesome touch, providing a subtle backdrop that allows the salmon to shine.
Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes and Broccoli Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own by exploring delightful twists and swaps!
- Asparagus Swap: Replace broccoli with asparagus for a fresh, crunchy alternative that pairs beautifully with lemon.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the lemon butter sauce for a kick of heat that balances the dish perfectly.
- Herb-Infused: Stir in fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the sauce for an aromatic touch that elevates the flavors.
- Garlic Lovers: Double the garlic in the butter sauce for an extra aromatic punch that garlic enthusiasts will adore.
- Creamy Addition: Mix in a splash of heavy cream to the lemon butter sauce for a richer, more indulgent flavor.
- Sweet Twist: Drizzle with a bit of honey or maple syrup over the salmon before cooking for a subtle sweet note that contrasts nicely with the lemon.
- Crispy Texture: Toss some breadcrumbs on the salmon before pan-searing for a delightful crunchy topping that adds an extra layer of texture.
- Veggie Medley: Incorporate other seasonal vegetables like sweet bell peppers or zucchini along with your potatoes for added color and health benefits.
Bookmark these variations, and don’t forget to check out our delicious Honey Garlic Butter for another scrumptious recipe idea! You’ll never run out of ways to enjoy your Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes and Broccoli.
How to Store and Freeze Lemon Butter Salmon
Fridge: Store leftover Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes and Broccoli in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the components separately. Wrap salmon fillets tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Reheating: To maintain the quality, reheat the salmon gently on the stovetop or in the oven at a low temperature, and avoid microwaving for too long to prevent drying out the fish.
Airtight Tips: Ensure all components are stored in airtight containers to preserve freshness and flavors, preventing moisture or freezer burn.
Make Ahead Options
These Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes and Broccoli are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the garlic and lemon butter sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The potatoes can be washed, halved, and coated with olive oil the night before, making your morning routine smoother. For best results, don’t prepare the salmon until you’re ready to cook it, as it tastes best fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply roast the potatoes and broccoli as directed, heat the sauce, and cook the salmon for a quick and delicious meal that’s just as flavorful when prepared ahead of time!
Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes and Broccoli Recipe FAQs
How do I choose fresh salmon?
Absolutely! When selecting fresh salmon, look for vibrant, moist fillets with a bright pink or orange hue. The flesh should be firm and spring back when pressed. Avoid any that have dark spots or a strong fishy smell, as these can indicate poor quality.
How can I store leftover Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes and Broccoli?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently in the microwave or oven, ensuring not to overheat to maintain quality.
Can I freeze the Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes and Broccoli?
Very! To freeze, wrap the salmon fillets tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. The roasted potatoes and broccoli should also be cooled and stored in airtight containers. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What should I do if my salmon isn’t cooking evenly?
If you find that your salmon isn’t cooking evenly, ensure that the fillets are of uniform thickness. You can also try reducing the heat to medium-low and cooking for a longer period; this helps to avoid overcooking the outside while the inside remains undercooked.
What are the dietary considerations for Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes and Broccoli?
This dish is not only gluten-free but also highly nutritious, making it suitable for most diets. However, if you have allergies, be mindful of the butter and any seasonings that may contain allergens. As always, consult with a healthcare provider if unsure about particular dietary needs, especially if serving to children or pets, as some ingredients may not be suitable for them.
How can I enhance the flavor of the dish?
Great question! For an extra flavor kick, consider marinating the salmon in lemon juice and minced garlic for 30 minutes before cooking. You can also experiment with adding herbs like dill or parsley into the lemon butter sauce for a fresh twist!
Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes and Broccoli Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss the halved baby potatoes in a bowl with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread the seasoned potatoes on a baking sheet.
- Place the baking sheet with potatoes in the oven and roast for about 20 minutes until golden brown and tender.
- Toss broccoli florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add to the baking sheet with potatoes and roast for an additional 15-20 minutes.
- While the veggies roast, melt 1/4 cup of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Stir in fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet with lemon butter sauce. Cook for 4-5 minutes then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until flaky.
- Plate crispy potatoes and tender broccoli alongside seasoned salmon. Drizzle with lemon butter sauce and garnish.
Leave a Reply