Lemon Butter Salmon with Roasted Potatoes and Broccoli

Name: Lemon Butter Salmon with Roasted Potatoes and Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 pound baby potatoes, halved; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Recipes

I love making Lemon Butter Salmon with Roasted Potatoes and Broccoli for a quick weeknight dinner that feels fancy yet effortless. The tender salmon, flavored with zesty lemon and rich butter, pairs perfectly with crispy, golden potatoes and vibrant broccoli. It’s a meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. I appreciate how the combination of flavors and textures makes it a delightful dining experience, and it comes together in just 30 minutes. Everyone at the table always asks for seconds!

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-02-16T15:10:18.841Z

When I first tried this Lemon Butter Salmon recipe, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could create such a gourmet flavor. The key is to baste the salmon with the lemon butter mixture, which caramelizes beautifully in the oven. I’ve found that using fresh lemon juice makes a significant difference in taste, so don’t skimp on that part!

Additionally, I love how the roasted potatoes and broccoli complement the salmon so well. I always season the vegetables with a bit of garlic powder and olive oil before roasting, which adds another layer of flavor. This meal never fails to impress our family and friends.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty lemon flavor brightens the rich salmon
Crispy potatoes and tender broccoli create a balanced meal
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

Techniques for Perfectly Cooked Salmon

To ensure your salmon fillets are perfectly cooked, it's crucial to monitor their internal temperature. The ideal doneness for salmon is 145°F (63°C), which you can check using an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the fillet. When the salmon flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque, it's ready to come out of the oven. If you prefer a slightly less cooked, more tender texture, you can pull the salmon at 130°F (54°C), allowing it to carry over cook while resting.

Another key technique for flavorful salmon is to let the fillets marinate in the lemon butter mixture for at least 10-15 minutes before roasting. This not only allows the flavors to penetrate the fish more deeply but also enhances the overall taste profile of the dish. If you're short on time, even a quick brush on the surface right before cooking will help, but the extra wait pays off in richer flavor.

Perfecting the Roasted Vegetables

When roasting the baby potatoes and broccoli, it's essential to cut the potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking. Halve them into similar sizes, about 1 inch thick, so they roast to golden perfection in the same time as the broccoli cooks through. The oil and seasonings you use are equally important; the olive oil helps achieve that crispy exterior while locking in moisture, so don’t skip it. Aim for a light coating rather than soaking the vegetables.

For broccoli, if you want even more texture contrast, consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese during the last five minutes of roasting. This gives an extra layer of flavor and creates a delicious crust. Monitor the vegetables close to the end of cooking to ensure they’re tender but not overcooked, as you want them to still have a bright green color and a slight bite.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Zest of 1 lemon

For the Roasted Potatoes and Broccoli

1 pound baby potatoes, halved
2 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Vegetables

In a mixing bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes and broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet.

Prepare the Salmon

In a small bowl, combine melted butter, lemon juice, garlic powder, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Place the salmon fillets on the same baking sheet, and brush them generously with the lemon butter mixture.

Roast in the Oven

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and golden.

Serve immediately, garnished with additional lemon zest if desired.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the lemon butter mixture before brushing it on the salmon.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this dish dairy-free, you can swap the unsalted butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. This will change the flavor profile slightly but will still keep the dish rich and satisfying. Additionally, you could try using lemon-infused olive oil for an extra zesty kick that complements the salmon beautifully.

For a healthier option, quinoa or farro can replace the potatoes, providing a nutty flavor while still maintaining the heartiness of the meal. The cooking times may vary, however, so be sure to prepare them according to package directions and adjust the oven timing for the other components accordingly.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftover Lemon Butter Salmon and vegetables can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When storing, ensure the salmon is cooled completely before sealing to avoid condensation buildup, which can lead to sogginess. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, typically about 10-15 minutes, allowing the fish to regain some of its flakiness.

If you prefer to keep it longer, consider freezing the cooked salmon and vegetables separately; they can last up to 2 months in the freezer. To reheat from frozen, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then follow the reheating instructions. Avoid reheating multiple times to preserve the quality and texture of the salmon.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before cooking.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

Asparagus, green beans, or carrots would also work well with this dish.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients a few hours in advance and bake just before serving.

→ What can I serve with this salmon dish?

A side salad or a serving of quinoa would complement this meal nicely.