Name: Garlic Butter Salmon and Broccoli Recipe
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 18 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 oz salmon fillet; ½ cup butter; 3 cloves garlic; ½ lemon; salt; pepper; 4 cups broccoli floret; olive oil; ¼ cup parmesan cheese; parsley

This dish brings together the delicate flavors of salmon and broccoli with a rich garlic butter sauce. It's a delightful and healthy meal perfect for any occasion.

Photos of Garlic Butter Salmon and Broccoli Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this recipe are everyday kitchen staples, you might need to pick up fresh salmon fillets and parmesan cheese if they are not commonly found in your pantry. The freshly grated parmesan cheese adds a nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Ingredients For Garlic Butter Salmon And Broccoli

Salmon fillet: A flavorful and healthy fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

Butter: Adds richness and a creamy texture to the garlic sauce.

Garlic: Provides a robust and aromatic flavor.

Lemon: Adds a refreshing citrus tang to balance the richness.

Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.

Pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.

Broccoli floret: A nutritious vegetable that pairs well with salmon.

Olive oil: Used for drizzling over the broccoli to add flavor and help it roast.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, nutty taste to the broccoli.

Parsley: A fresh herb for garnish, adding color and a slight herbal note.

One reader, Brietta Bannister says:

This garlic butter salmon and broccoli recipe is a game-changer! The salmon is perfectly tender, and the broccoli is deliciously crisp with a hint of parmesan. The garlic butter sauce ties everything together beautifully. A must-try for a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal!

Brietta Bannister

Cooking Techniques for Garlic Butter Salmon and Broccoli Recipe

How to mix butter, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper: Combine softened butter with minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper in a bowl until well blended. How to lay salmon fillets on a pan: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on a baking sheet or oven-safe pan. How to drizzle olive oil: Pour a thin stream of olive oil over the broccoli florets to ensure they are lightly coated. How to garnish with parsley: Chop fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the cooked salmon and broccoli before serving.

How To Make Garlic Butter Salmon and Broccoli Recipe

Garlic butter salmon and broccoli cooked together in a pan and finishes in just 18 minutes! No hassle making a dish that is both quick and delish!

Preparation:

Cooking: 18 minutes

Total: 18 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

6ozsalmon fillet,4 fillets
½cupbutter,melted
3clovesgarlic
½lemon,juiced
salt,to taste
pepper,to taste
4cupsbroccoli floret
olive oil
¼cupparmesan cheese
parsley,fresh to garnish

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
In a bowl, mix butter, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Lay salmon fillets on a pan, and evenly distribute the marinade.
Place broccoli on both sides of the salmon, and drizzle on olive oil, salt, pepper, and parmesan.
Bake 18 minutes.
Serve and garnish with parsley.

Nutrition

Calories: 374.78kcal
Fat: 33.62g
Saturated Fat: 17.75g
Trans Fat: 0.93g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.89g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.94g
Carbohydrates: 5.87g
Fiber: 0.43g
Sugar: 0.31g
Protein: 14.68g
Cholesterol: 90.71mg
Sodium: 383.63mg
Calcium: 165.22mg
Potassium: 434.88mg
Iron: 1.09mg
Vitamin A: 326.79µg
Vitamin C: 74.51mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Garlic Butter Salmon and Broccoli

To ensure your salmon stays moist and flavorful, make sure to pat the fillets dry with a paper towel before applying the marinade. This helps the butter mixture adhere better to the fish. Additionally, when drizzling olive oil over the broccoli, toss the florets lightly to ensure even coating, which will help them roast more uniformly and develop a delicious, crispy texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Garlic Butter Salmon and Broccoli

Pre-chop ingredients: Chop garlic and broccoli in advance to save time during cooking.

Use pre-melted butter: Melt the butter in the microwave to quickly mix with other ingredients.

Line the baking sheet: Use parchment paper to line the pan for easy cleanup.

Preheat the oven: Start preheating the oven while you prepare the salmon and broccoli.

Batch prep: Prepare multiple salmon fillets and store them in the fridge for quick meals later.

Use a garlic press: A garlic press can quickly mince garlic without the need for fine chopping.

Substitute Ingredients For Garlic Butter Salmon and Broccoli Recipe

salmon fillet - Substitute with trout fillet: Trout has a similar texture and flavor profile to salmon, making it a great alternative.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee has a rich, buttery flavor and can withstand high cooking temperatures.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor that complements the dish well.
lemon - Substitute with lime: Lime offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, adding brightness to the dish.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty umami flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and spice, giving the dish an extra kick.
broccoli floret - Substitute with cauliflower floret: Cauliflower has a similar texture and can be roasted or steamed like broccoli.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it suitable for cooking.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar salty, nutty flavor and can be used in the same way.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro offers a fresh, slightly citrusy flavor that can brighten up the dish.

Plating Ideas for Garlic Butter Salmon and Broccoli

Choose the right plate: Select a large, white, rectangular plate to provide a clean canvas for your dish. This will allow the vibrant colors of the salmon and broccoli to stand out.
Create a base layer: Place a thin layer of lemon butter sauce on the plate where the salmon will sit. This not only adds flavor but also helps keep the salmon in place.
Position the salmon: Lay the salmon fillet slightly off-center on the plate, allowing room for the broccoli and garnishes. Ensure the salmon is cooked to perfection with a golden-brown crust.
Arrange the broccoli: Place the broccoli florets around the salmon, creating a natural, garden-like appearance. Ensure the broccoli is evenly roasted with a slight char for added texture.
Drizzle with olive oil: Lightly drizzle olive oil over the broccoli to give it a glossy finish and enhance its flavor.
Add parmesan cheese: Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the broccoli while it’s still hot, allowing it to melt slightly and add a creamy, savory element to the dish.
Garnish with parsley: Finely chop fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the salmon and broccoli for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Finish with lemon zest: Grate a small amount of lemon zest over the entire dish to add a bright, citrusy aroma that complements the lemon butter sauce.
Serve with elegance: Ensure the plate is clean and free of any smudges or spills. Serve the dish immediately to maintain the perfect temperature and texture.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Garlic Butter Salmon and Broccoli

Oven: Used to bake the salmon and broccoli at a consistent temperature of 375 degrees F.
Mixing bowl: Utilized to mix the butter, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper into a marinade.
Baking pan: A flat surface to lay the salmon fillets and arrange the broccoli around them.
Knife: Essential for chopping the garlic cloves and cutting the lemon.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping garlic and slicing the lemon.
Measuring cups: Needed to measure out the butter and parmesan cheese accurately.
Measuring spoons: Useful for measuring smaller quantities of salt and pepper.
Garlic press: Optional but handy for mincing the garlic cloves quickly.
Spatula: Helps in evenly spreading the marinade over the salmon fillets.
Tongs: Useful for arranging the broccoli around the salmon on the baking pan.
Serving platter: To elegantly present the finished dish with parsley garnish.

Storing and Freezing Instructions for Garlic Butter Salmon and Broccoli

Let the garlic butter salmon and broccoli cool down to room temperature before storing or freezing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can lead to soggy or mushy textures.
For short-term storage, place the cooled salmon and broccoli in separate airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When reheating, place the salmon and broccoli on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the texture may not be as good.
For longer storage, freeze the garlic butter salmon and broccoli separately:
- Place the salmon in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
- For the broccoli, blanch it first by boiling for 2-3 minutes, then immediately placing it in an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 6 months.
To reheat frozen garlic butter salmon, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven as described above. For frozen broccoli, you can reheat it directly from frozen in the microwave or by steaming until heated through.
When reheating, keep in mind that the texture of the salmon and broccoli may be slightly different than when freshly cooked, but the flavors will still be delicious.

How to Reheat Leftover Garlic Butter Salmon and Broccoli

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover salmon and broccoli in an oven-safe dish, and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through and the broccoli is tender-crisp. This method helps to retain the moisture in the fish and prevents it from drying out.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the salmon and broccoli in a microwave-safe dish, and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through and the broccoli is tender-crisp. Be careful not to overheat the salmon, as it can quickly become dry and rubbery in the microwave.
If you prefer a crispy texture, you can reheat the salmon and broccoli in a skillet. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the salmon and broccoli, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is heated through and the broccoli is tender-crisp. This method will give the salmon a nice crispy exterior while keeping the interior moist and flaky.
For a flavorful twist, you can create a quick garlic butter sauce to reheat the salmon and broccoli. In a small saucepan, melt some butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Add the salmon and broccoli to the saucepan, and toss to coat with the garlic butter sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through and the broccoli is tender-crisp.
If you have leftover garlic butter marinade, you can use it to reheat the salmon and broccoli. Place the salmon and broccoli in an oven-safe dish, and pour the leftover marinade over the top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil, and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through and the broccoli is tender-crisp.

Interesting Trivia About Garlic Butter Salmon and Broccoli

A random fact about this recipe is that salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. Additionally, broccoli is a great source of vitamins C and K, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious.

Budget-Friendly: Making Garlic Butter Salmon and Broccoli at Home

This garlic butter salmon and broccoli recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main expense is the salmon, but the other ingredients like broccoli, butter, and garlic are relatively inexpensive. The use of olive oil and parmesan cheese adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $25-$30. Considering the nutritional value and delicious taste, I would rate this recipe a solid 8 out of 10.

Is Garlic Butter Salmon and Broccoli Healthy?

This garlic butter salmon and broccoli recipe is a healthy and nutritious meal option. Here's why:

Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart and brain health
Broccoli is packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a nutrient-dense vegetable choice
Garlic and lemon provide antioxidants and immune-boosting properties
The recipe uses minimal added salt and relies on natural flavors from the ingredients

However, there is room for improvement in terms of the amount of butter used, which can add significant amounts of saturated fat to the dish.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of butter used, or replace it with a healthier alternative like olive oil or avocado oil
Use a low-fat parmesan cheese or omit it altogether to reduce the overall fat content
Add more vegetables to the dish, such as cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Serve the salmon and broccoli with a side of quinoa or brown rice for a complete, balanced meal
Experiment with different herbs and spices, like dill, basil, or red pepper flakes, to add flavor without relying on salt

Editor's Opinion on This Delicious Salmon and Broccoli Dish

This garlic butter salmon and broccoli recipe is a delightful, balanced dish that combines rich flavors with simplicity. The butter and garlic marinade infuses the salmon with a luscious, savory taste, while the lemon adds a refreshing zest. The broccoli, seasoned with olive oil, salt, pepper, and parmesan, complements the salmon perfectly, offering a nutritious and flavorful side. Baking at 375 degrees ensures the salmon remains tender and moist. Garnishing with parsley adds a fresh, vibrant touch. Overall, it's an easy yet elegant meal suitable for any occasion.

Enhance Your Garlic Butter Salmon and Broccoli Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Imagine the caramelized edges of sweet potatoes mingling with the savory notes of garlic butter salmon. The natural sweetness of the potatoes will create a delightful contrast, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors.

Quinoa Salad: A vibrant quinoa salad with bursts of cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a hint of feta cheese can add a refreshing crunch to your meal. The lightness of the salad will balance the richness of the salmon and broccoli.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Indulge in the velvety smoothness of creamy mashed potatoes. The buttery texture will complement the garlic butter marinade on the salmon, creating a luxurious dining experience.

Buttered Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears, lightly sautéed in butter and sprinkled with a touch of lemon zest, can add a sophisticated touch to your plate. The crispness of the asparagus will provide a delightful contrast to the tender salmon.

Wild Rice Pilaf: A wild rice pilaf infused with herbs and dried cranberries can bring an earthy and slightly sweet dimension to your meal. The nutty flavor of the wild rice will pair beautifully with the garlic butter salmon.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Garlic Butter Salmon and Broccoli

Lemon Herb Chicken and Asparagus: Dive into a zesty delight with lemon herb chicken paired with tender asparagus. This dish is a symphony of flavors, featuring a succulent chicken breast marinated in a blend of fresh lemon juice, garlic, and aromatic herbs. Roasted to perfection alongside crisp asparagus, this meal is both nutritious and delicious.

Honey Glazed Salmon with Brussels Sprouts: Indulge in the sweet and savory notes of honey glazed salmon served with roasted Brussels sprouts. The salmon is coated in a luscious honey and soy sauce mixture, then baked until flaky. The Brussels sprouts, seasoned with olive oil and garlic, complement the dish with their crispy texture and rich flavor.

Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry: Experience the vibrant flavors of teriyaki chicken stir-fried with fresh broccoli. This quick and easy dish features tender chicken pieces cooked in a homemade teriyaki sauce, made from soy sauce, ginger, and a touch of honey. The broccoli adds a delightful crunch, making this a perfect weeknight meal.

Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops with Roasted Vegetables: Savor the rich taste of balsamic glazed pork chops accompanied by a medley of roasted vegetables. The pork chops are seared to perfection and then glazed with a tangy balsamic reduction. Paired with a colorful array of roasted carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers, this dish is a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Garlic Butter Salmon and Broccoli

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these Stuffed Mushrooms that are packed with a savory blend of cream cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. The mushroom caps are baked to perfection, offering a crispy exterior and a creamy, flavorful filling. A touch of parmesan on top adds a delightful crunch and a burst of umami. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering and are sure to impress with their rich, earthy flavors.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic Bruschetta. Fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic are combined with a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar. This mixture is then generously spooned onto toasted baguette slices, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The crispness of the bread contrasts beautifully with the juicy, aromatic topping, making it an irresistible start to any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, molten center of a Chocolate Lava Cake. This decadent treat features a warm, gooey core that oozes out as you take your first bite. The exterior is perfectly baked to a slight crisp, creating a delightful contrast with the luscious interior. Enhance the experience by pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, allowing the cold and creamy texture to balance the warm, chocolatey goodness. A sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries add a touch of elegance and a burst of freshness, making this dessert a true showstopper.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Savor the tangy and sweet flavors of a Lemon Meringue Pie. This classic dessert features a buttery, flaky crust filled with a zesty lemon curd that strikes the perfect balance between tart and sweet. The crowning glory is a layer of fluffy, golden-brown meringue, lightly toasted to perfection. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, from the crisp crust to the smooth lemon filling and the airy meringue. Serve it chilled for a refreshing finish to any meal, and garnish with a twist of lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus aroma.

Why trust this Garlic Butter Salmon and Broccoli Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic and butter with the freshness of salmon and broccoli. The lemon juice adds a zesty touch, while the parmesan cheese brings a savory depth. It's a balanced meal that's both nutritious and delicious. The simplicity of the ingredients and the straightforward cooking method make it accessible for home cooks of all levels. Trust this recipe for a wholesome, flavorful dish that's sure to impress.

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FAQ:

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

I usually check if the salmon flakes easily with a fork. It should be opaque and not translucent. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should be around 145°F.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it and pat it dry before adding it to the pan. This helps it roast better and not get too soggy.

What can I use instead of butter for a healthier option?

You can substitute the butter with olive oil or a mix of olive oil and a bit of chicken broth. It won't be as rich, but it will still be delicious.

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with other types of fish like cod, halibut, or trout. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.

How can I make this dish more flavorful?

You can add some extra herbs like thyme or rosemary to the butter mixture. Also, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick.