Craving a delicious, healthy meal that practically cooks itself? This Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Salmon and Broccoli recipe delivers vibrant flavors with minimal cleanup, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. You’ll love how easy it is to create a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Salmon fillets: Use fresh or thawed frozen salmon. Cod or halibut can be a great alternative.
- Broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli works best. You can also use cauliflower florets.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest are essential. Bottled juice isn’t recommended for this recipe.
- Olive oil: Any neutral oil like avocado oil will work.
- Dried herbs: A mix of dried dill, parsley, and garlic powder creates a lovely flavor. Fresh herbs can be used; double the amount.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
- 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced, plus 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Large baking sheet, parchment paper, small mixing bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This step ensures your food cooks evenly and prevents sticking.
2. Season the Vegetables
In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, half of the salt, and half of the pepper. Spread them in a single layer on one side of the prepared baking sheet. Roasting broccoli is a cornerstone of many healthy broccoli recipes.
3. Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, dried dill, dried parsley, garlic powder, and the rest of the salt and pepper. Place the salmon fillets on the other side of the baking sheet.
4. Flavor the Salmon
Drizzle the herb and lemon mixture evenly over each salmon fillet. Top each fillet with a few lemon slices. This infuses the salmon with bright, zesty flavor.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the broccoli is tender-crisp. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your salmon.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Serve immediately, perhaps with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you have some on hand. This is one of the most satisfying healthy broccoli recipes you’ll make!
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
- Different Veggies: Include bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus alongside the broccoli.
- Herb Twist: Experiment with other dried herbs like oregano or thyme.
- Citrus Boost: Garnish with fresh lemon zest before serving for extra zing.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Salmon and Broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook the salmon when reheating to maintain its tender texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning.
Q: How do I know when the salmon is cooked?
A: Salmon is cooked when it easily flakes with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Q: Can I use different vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Asparagus, bell peppers, or even cauliflower are great alternatives or additions. They make for excellent healthy broccoli recipes.
Q: What if I don’t have parchment paper?
A: You can oil the baking sheet directly, but parchment paper makes cleanup much easier.
Q: Is this recipe good for meal prep?
A: Yes, it’s a fantastic option for meal prep. Just store individual portions for quick, healthy meals throughout the week.
Q: How can I make the broccoli crispier?
A: Ensure your broccoli is dry before tossing with oil, don’t overcrowd the pan, and you can roast it for a few extra minutes if needed.
