Buttery Baked Salmon with Baby Broccoli is the perfect dish for those who want a meal that’s light yet rich in flavor. The succulent salmon fillet is baked to perfection, allowing the buttery goodness to soak into every flake of the fish, while the baby broccoli adds a lovely crunch and a pop of color to the plate. The rich, tender salmon pairs beautifully with the slightly bitter, crispy baby broccoli, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. A simple seasoning of lemon, garlic, and herbs brings out the natural freshness of the fish, while the butter adds an indulgent richness that elevates the dish.
This recipe was inspired by the simplicity and elegance of combining two ingredients that naturally complement each other. It’s a dish that allows the salmon to shine without overwhelming it with heavy seasonings. The buttery coating is key to keeping the fish moist and tender, while the baby broccoli provides a light, healthy contrast that adds depth to the meal.
What I love most about this dish is how easy it is to prepare. With minimal prep work, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or even a special occasion. The flavors are clean and vibrant, yet rich and satisfying—making this a go-to recipe that’s sure to impress everyone at the table. You can serve it with a side of rice, quinoa, or simply enjoy it on its own for a low-carb, flavorful meal.
Perfect for:
- Weeknight dinners
- Healthy meals
- Special occasions
- Seafood lovers
- Light, fresh meals
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why Buttery Baked Salmon with Baby Broccoli will become your go-to meal:
- Simple and Flavorful: The garlic, lemon, and herbs infuse the salmon with bright, fresh flavors.
- Easy to Prepare: This dish requires minimal ingredients and just a few simple steps for a quick dinner.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins, this meal is great for heart health.
- Perfectly Tender Salmon: The baking method keeps the salmon moist, tender, and flaky.
- Crisp Baby Broccoli: The broccoli retains its crunch while absorbing the savory flavors from the salmon.
- Versatile Meal: Pair it with rice, quinoa, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: The salmon and broccoli can be prepped in advance, making it a great option for busy nights.
- Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: This meal is naturally low in carbs, perfect for those on a keto or low-carb diet.
- One-Pan Wonder: With everything baked in one dish, cleanup is a breeze.
- Gluten-Free: No need to worry about gluten in this naturally gluten-free meal.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 28g
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Baby Broccoli:
- 2 cups baby broccoli, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Ingredient Highlights
- Salmon: High in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a heart-healthy choice.
- Baby Broccoli: A nutrient-dense vegetable, rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Lemon and Herbs: Add fresh, zesty flavor to the dish without overpowering the natural taste of the salmon.
- Butter and Garlic: Provide a rich, savory coating for the salmon, enhancing its flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Salmon:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the salmon with melted butter and drizzle with lemon juice. Sprinkle with minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Bake the Salmon: Bake the salmon for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Prepare the Baby Broccoli:
- Toss with Olive Oil: While the salmon is baking, toss the baby broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast the Broccoli: Add the seasoned broccoli to the baking sheet with the salmon during the last 10 minutes of cooking, or until tender and lightly browned.
Serve:
- Serve and Enjoy: Plate the salmon with the roasted baby broccoli and enjoy immediately.
How to Serve
Here are 9 serving suggestions for Buttery Baked Salmon with Baby Broccoli:
- With Rice: Serve alongside steamed rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
- With Mashed Potatoes: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting dish.
- On a Bed of Greens: Serve the salmon and broccoli over a fresh salad for a lighter, refreshing meal.
- With Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of warm, crispy garlic bread to soak up the buttery sauce.
- As Part of a Dinner Party: This dish is perfect for an elegant yet easy-to-make main course.
- With a Side of Roasted Vegetables: Add roasted carrots or sweet potatoes for extra color and nutrition.
- For a Low-Carb Meal: Serve on its own or with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly option.
- As a Leftover Lunch: Enjoy as a protein-packed lunch the next day, either cold in a salad or reheated.
- With a Lemon Butter Sauce: Drizzle extra lemon butter sauce over the salmon for even more richness.
Additional Tips
- Check for Freshness: Choose wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Overcooking the salmon can make it dry, so keep an eye on it as it bakes.
- Serve Immediately: The salmon tastes best when it’s fresh out of the oven.
- Customize the Herbs: Feel free to substitute the dried thyme and rosemary with fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Recipe Variations
- Grilled Salmon: Grill the salmon instead of baking it for a smoky flavor.
- Honey Garlic Salmon: Brush the salmon with a mixture of honey and garlic for a sweet-savory twist.
- Crispy Salmon Skin: Leave the skin on the salmon and roast it for an extra crispy texture.
- Add Parmesan: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli before roasting for a cheesy flavor.
- Lemon Dill Salmon: Swap the rosemary and thyme for fresh dill and a little extra lemon zest.
- Crispy Roasted Broccoli: For extra crunch, roast the broccoli at a higher temperature (425°F/220°C) for a few more minutes.
- Cedar-Planked Salmon: For a unique presentation, grill the salmon on a cedar plank for extra flavor.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the salmon with a plant-based protein like tempeh or tofu, and use a plant-based butter.
- Maple Mustard Salmon: Brush the salmon with a mixture of maple syrup and Dijon mustard for a sweet and tangy glaze.
- Lemon Garlic Butter Broccoli: Toss the broccoli in a garlic butter sauce for an even richer flavor.
Special Equipment
- Baking Sheet: For roasting the salmon and broccoli.
- Parchment Paper: To prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
- Instant-Read Thermometer: To ensure the salmon is cooked to the perfect temperature.
- Pastry Brush: For brushing the butter and lemon juice over the salmon.
- Tongs: To handle the baby broccoli when placing it on the baking sheet.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, frozen salmon can be used, but ensure it’s thawed before cooking. - How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
The salmon and broccoli are best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients in advance and bake when ready. - Can I substitute the baby broccoli?
Yes, you can substitute regular broccoli or asparagus. - How long does the leftovers last?
Leftover salmon and broccoli can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. - Can I use different herbs?
Absolutely! Fresh dill or parsley work well with salmon and provide a fresh, bright flavor. - Can I grill the salmon instead?
Yes, grilling the salmon adds a smoky flavor. Just make sure it’s cooked through. - What’s a good side dish to pair with this?
Serve with roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a side salad for a well-rounded meal. - Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free! - Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to roast with the salmon.
Conclusion
Buttery Baked Salmon with Baby Broccoli is a simple yet elegant dish that combines the richness of perfectly baked salmon with the tender crunch of baby broccoli. The salmon is made even more indulgent by the addition of a rich buttery glaze, which infuses the fish with flavor while keeping it moist and tender. The baby broccoli complements the salmon with its slightly bitter notes and crisp texture, creating a balanced and delicious meal.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Drizzle the salmon with melted butter and season generously with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. You can also add fresh herbs like dill or thyme for extra flavor.
On the same baking sheet, add the baby broccoli and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss to coat evenly.
Bake the salmon and broccoli in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork and the broccoli is tender yet still crisp. You can broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes to get a golden, crispy top.
Serve the buttery salmon with the roasted baby broccoli on the side. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
I can’t wait to see how your buttery baked salmon turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creation!