Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes & Broccoli
Some dinners feel fancy without actually being complicated — and this Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes & Broccoli is exactly that kind of meal. It’s the dinner you make when you want something comforting yet fresh, indulgent yet nourishing, impressive yet totally doable on a busy weeknight.
Tender, flaky salmon bathed in rich lemon butter sauce. Crispy roasted potatoes with golden edges and fluffy centers. Bright green broccoli roasted just until tender with slightly charred tips. Everything comes together on one pan, with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
This is the kind of recipe that proves healthy food doesn’t have to be boring — and elegant food doesn’t have to be stressful.
Why This Salmon Dinner Works So Well
This recipe balances flavor, texture, and nutrition in every bite.
- Salmon provides rich flavor, healthy fats, and satisfying protein.
- Potatoes add comfort and crunch, soaking up lemon butter goodness.
- Broccoli brings freshness, color, and a subtle bitterness that balances the richness.
The lemon butter ties everything together, adding brightness without overpowering the salmon’s natural flavor.
Best of all, this meal feels restaurant-quality while still being approachable for home cooks of all skill levels.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
- Baby potatoes (halved)
- Broccoli florets
- Unsalted butter
- Olive oil
- Fresh garlic
- Lemon (juice and zest)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Every ingredient has a purpose — nothing fancy, nothing unnecessary, just clean flavors that work beautifully together.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss halved baby potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them cut-side down on the baking sheet.
- Roast potatoes for 20 minutes until they begin to turn golden and crispy.
- While potatoes roast, melt butter in a small saucepan. Add minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and zest.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and push potatoes to one side. Add salmon fillets and broccoli florets.
- Drizzle broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spoon lemon butter sauce generously over the salmon.
- Return the pan to the oven and roast for 12–15 minutes, until salmon flakes easily and broccoli is tender.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with extra lemon butter if desired.
Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes & Broccoli
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast 20 minutes.
- Melt butter and sauté garlic briefly. Stir in lemon juice and zest.
- Add salmon and broccoli to the pan. Season broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon lemon butter over salmon and return to oven.
- Roast 12–15 minutes until salmon flakes easily.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Texture & Flavor Breakdown
This dish is all about contrast done right.
- The salmon is buttery, flaky, and moist.
- The potatoes are crispy on the outside and soft inside.
- The broccoli is tender with lightly roasted edges.
- The lemon butter sauce adds richness and brightness without heaviness.
Every bite feels balanced — comforting yet fresh.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Butter Salmon
- Don’t overcook the salmon: Pull it as soon as it flakes easily.
- Use high heat: This ensures crispy potatoes and roasted broccoli.
- Pat salmon dry: Helps the butter sauce cling better.
- Zest before juicing the lemon: It’s easier and gives maximum flavor.
Easy Variations
Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
Sprinkle potatoes with grated parmesan during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
Honey Lemon Salmon
Add a teaspoon of honey to the lemon butter for subtle sweetness.
Spicy Kick
Add chili flakes or cayenne to the butter sauce.
Mediterranean Style
Finish with olives, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta.
What to Serve with This Dish
This meal is already complete, but you can pair it with:
- A light green salad
- Steamed asparagus
- Cauliflower rice
- Crusty bread for soaking up sauce
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently in the oven or skillet to avoid drying out the salmon.
- Not freezer-friendly: Best enjoyed fresh.
Why This Recipe Is a Weeknight Winner
It’s fast, flavorful, and satisfying without being heavy. You get protein, vegetables, and carbs all in one balanced plate — and it looks beautiful enough to serve to guests.
This is the kind of recipe that quickly becomes part of your regular rotation.
