Lemon Butter Salmon with Herb Potatoes and Broccoli

Name: Lemon Butter Salmon with Herb Potatoes and Broccoli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 pound baby potatoes, halved; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh & Wholesome Recipes

I love the bright, fresh flavors in my Lemon Butter Salmon with Herb Potatoes and Broccoli. This dish combines succulent salmon fillets, a creamy lemon butter sauce, and perfectly roasted potatoes and broccoli that soak up all the deliciousness. It’s a quick and wholesome meal that showcases how easy it can be to prepare seafood at home, and the colors on the plate are simply inviting. Plus, the lightness of the meal makes it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or entertaining friends.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-16T15:30:19.975Z

My journey with this Lemon Butter Salmon began with a desire to create a dish that felt both indulgent and healthy. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and pairs perfectly with the bright zest of lemon. I discovered that a simple lemon butter sauce enhances the natural flavors of the salmon while making it incredibly moist.

One of my favorite tips for this recipe is using fresh herbs. They bring a depth of aroma and flavor to the herb potatoes and broccoli. I prefer to mix fresh parsley and dill; it elevates the dish and makes the vegetables shine alongside the rich fish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, buttery flavor balanced perfectly with zesty lemon
Loaded with fresh herbs that brighten up the entire dish
Simple to prepare and perfect for any weeknight meal

Perfecting the Lemon Butter Sauce

The lemon butter sauce is the star of this dish, enhancing the salmon with a rich and tangy flavor. To achieve a glossy texture, take care not to overheat the butter while melting it. Medium heat is ideal—this allows the garlic to cook gently without browning too quickly, which can lead to a bitter taste. Keep an eye on the sauce; it should be fragrant and slightly thickened before adding the salmon.

Incorporating both lemon juice and zest is crucial for a vibrant taste. Lemon juice provides acidity that cuts through the richness of the butter, while the zest offers aromatic oils that enhance the overall flavor profile. For a twist, consider adding a spoonful of Dijon mustard or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Choosing the Right Salmon

When selecting salmon fillets, look for bright, firm flesh without any browning or dark spots. Fresh salmon provides the best flavor and texture, but if you're short on time, frozen fillets are a convenient alternative. Just ensure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for optimal results; this will prevent the salmon from becoming mushy when cooked.

For a milder flavor, opt for farmed salmon; if you enjoy a richer taste, wild-caught varieties like sockeye or king salmon can be excellent choices. Remember that the thickness of the fillet can affect cooking time: thinner pieces may require only 4-5 minutes per side, while thicker cuts will need the full 6-7 minutes for perfect flakiness.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Once plated, you can elevate this dish with a sprinkle of additional fresh herbs or a few capers for an added layer of flavor. Pair it with a side of quinoa or a light salad for a refreshing contrast. If you're entertaining, consider serving this dish with a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the zesty notes of the lemon butter.

If you have leftovers, store the salmon and vegetables separately in airtight containers to maintain their textures. The salmon will keep well in the fridge for 1-2 days, while roasted potatoes and broccoli can last up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to avoid drying out the fish.

Ingredients

For the Lemon Butter Salmon

4 salmon fillets
1/4 cup unsalted butter
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Herb Potatoes and Broccoli

1 pound baby potatoes, halved
2 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Herb Potatoes and Broccoli

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes and broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, pepper, parsley, and dill. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until golden and tender.

Cook the Lemon Butter Salmon

While the vegetables roast, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice and zest. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then place them in the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Serve

Once the salmon is cooked and the vegetables are tender, serve them on plates. Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the salmon and enjoy your delicious, healthy meal!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, garnish with extra lemon wedges or fresh herbs before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with a green salad for a complete meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for alternative proteins, chicken breast can be used in place of salmon. Simply follow the same cooking instructions, but be aware that chicken will require a slightly longer cooking time—about 8-10 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Be sure to check for doneness with a meat thermometer, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

For a dairy-free version of the lemon butter sauce, consider using vegan butter or olive oil to keep the dish light and plant-based, all while maintaining that lovely richness. Similarly, you can swap fresh herbs for dried ones, though keep in mind that dried herbs are more concentrated—use about one-third of the amount.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled based on the number of servings needed. If cooking for a crowd, adjust the ingredients proportionately, keeping in mind that larger amounts will require a longer roasting time for vegetables. Use multiple baking sheets if necessary to avoid crowding, ensuring even cooking and a crispy texture.

When scaling, make sure to provide adequate space for the salmon fillets in the pan; overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than searing. If doubling the recipe, consider using a larger skillet or cooking in batches to achieve that desirable golden crust on the fillets.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your salmon isn't cooking evenly, this could be due to its thickness or starting temperature. Always let it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking to help it cook more evenly. If you notice it starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid to trap steam and promote even cooking.

For the roasted vegetables, if they aren't browning as expected, ensure your oven is preheated correctly and consider using a convection setting if available. The movement of hot air will help achieve that lovely golden color. If you find they’ve softened too much before browning, keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of roasting to achieve the desired texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for broccoli?

You can substitute it with asparagus or green beans if that's what you prefer!

→ How can I make this dish lighter?

You can reduce the amount of butter or substitute with a light olive oil to cut down on fat.

→ Can I prepare the lemon butter sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the lemon butter sauce in advance and warm it up before serving.