Introduction
Treat yourself to a balanced and flavorful dinner with this Lemon Butter Salmon recipe. It pairs flaky, tender salmon with crispy roasted potatoes and vibrant broccoli, all enhanced by a zesty lemon-butter sauce. Simple to prepare yet elegant enough for special occasions, this dish is a must-try!
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 3 tbsp butter, unsalted
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 20 minutes until they start to crisp up.
Step 2: Add the Broccoli
- After 20 minutes, add the broccoli florets to the baking sheet.
- Toss lightly with the potatoes, ensuring even coating.
- Roast together for an additional 10 minutes until the vegetables are golden and tender.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon
- While the vegetables roast, heat 3 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the lemon zest and juice.
- Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable.
- Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked to your desired doneness.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
- Arrange the roasted potatoes and broccoli on a plate.
- Place a salmon fillet on top of the vegetables.
- Drizzle the lemon-butter sauce from the skillet over the salmon and vegetables.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
- Serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the extra lemon-butter sauce.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh salmon and vegetables will make this dish shine.
- Avoid Overcooking: Check the salmon’s doneness with a fork— it should flake easily but still be moist.
- Extra Flavor: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the butter sauce for a spicy kick.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Thaw frozen salmon in the refrigerator overnight and pat it dry before cooking for the best results.
What if I don’t have broccoli?
You can substitute broccoli with green beans, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or vegan butter.
Conclusion
Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes and Broccoli is a simple yet elegant meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. The zesty lemon butter sauce ties everything together, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish. Try it tonight and impress your loved ones!