Garlic Butter Salmon with Roasted Vegetables: A Delicious & Easy Weeknight Dinner!
Garlic Butter Salmon with Roasted Vegetables
If there’s one recipe that screams comfort, elegance, and simplicity, it’s Garlic Butter Salmon with Roasted Vegetables. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights but also fancy enough to impress guests at a dinner party.
The tender, flaky salmon is infused with a garlicky, buttery goodness, while the roasted vegetables offer a healthy balance with charred, caramelized edges. The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its taste but in how effortlessly it comes together on a single sheet pan.
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Recipe Timings:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Marinating Time: 15 minutes (optional but recommended)
- Total Time: 45 minutes
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Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
(Please note these values may vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.)
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Ingredients:
For the Salmon:
– 4 salmon fillets (about 5-6 ounces each, skin-on or skinless)
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt & pepper to taste
For the Roasted Vegetables:
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes
– 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
– 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, pepper, and ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Instructions:
1.Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Marinate the Salmon (optional, but highly recommended): In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush the salmon with this mixture and let it rest for 15 minutes in the fridge.
3. Prepare Vegetables: While the salmon marinates, toss the broccoli, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers with olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Spread the vegetables evenly on the baking sheet.
4. Add Salmon to the Sheet Pan: Push the vegetables to the sides of the baking sheet, making room in the middle for your salmon fillets. Place the salmon skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets).
5. Roast: Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Broil (Optional): For a crispy top, broil on high for 2-3 minutes at the end, keeping an eye on it to avoid burning.
7. Serve & Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley or an extra squeeze of lemon, and serve immediately.
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Helpful Tips:
1. Pat the Salmon Dry: Before marinating, ensure the salmon is patted dry with a paper towel. This helps it absorb the garlic butter better.
2. Don’t Overcrowd: Space out the salmon and veggies on the tray to ensure even cooking and perfect caramelization.
3. Use a Meat Thermometer: The salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for optimal doneness.
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Variations of This Recipe:
1. Cajun Spice Twist: Swap the paprika for a Cajun seasoning blend for a spicy kick.
2. Asian-Inspired: Use soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of honey in place of butter and lemon for a sweet-savory flavor profile.
3. Veggie Swaps: Use asparagus, brussels sprouts, or even sweet potato cubes depending on your preferences or what’s in season.
4. Dairy-Free: Replace butter with olive oil or a non-dairy butter substitute like vegan ghee.
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FAQ:
1. Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating or cooking.
2. Do I have to use salmon?
Not at all! You can substitute salmon with another fish like cod, trout, or even shrimp for similar results. Cooking times may vary slightly.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the veggies and marinate the salmon a few hours in advance. Store in the fridge and pop everything on the sheet pan when ready to roast.
4. Can I use an air fryer for this recipe?
Yes, simply cook the salmon and vegetables in batches in your air fryer at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes.
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Chef Tips:
1. Butter + Garlic Equals Magic: Don’t skimp on the garlic butter! It’s what brings everything together in this recipe. Adjust the garlic to your taste.
2. Lemon is Your Best Friend: Serve the dish with extra lemon wedges – the acidity cuts through the richness of the butter, enhancing the flavors beautifully.
3. Sheet Pan = Minimal Cleanup: Line your pan with parchment or foil for an easy cleanup process.
4. Garnish Elegantly: Sprinkle with some freshly chopped parsley, chives, or even dill for a pop of freshness and color.
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Garlic Butter Salmon with Roasted Vegetables is truly an all-star meal. It’s not just wonderfully flavorful but also full of nutrients, easy to customize, and perfect for anyone looking to keep their weeknight dinners exciting yet stress-free. Give it a shot this week, and don’t be surprised when it becomes your new favorite!
