Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice

Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice is a delicious, healthy option for any meal. This dish combines flaky salmon with vibrant broccoli and aromatic rice, creating a well-rounded plate that’s not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it’s an easy recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious and Balanced: Packed with protein from the salmon and fiber from the broccoli, it supports a healthy diet.
• Versatile Flavors: The lemon-garlic seasoning enhances the salmon while the herbed rice adds a delightful aroma.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Great for planning ahead; this dish can be easily stored and enjoyed later.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the herbs or add your favorite vegetables to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice, you’ll need a few essential tools to simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick skillet
• Steamer or microwave-safe bowl
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick skillet: Ensures easy cooking and cleanup, preventing the salmon from sticking.
• Steamer or microwave-safe bowl: Helps in quickly cooking the broccoli while keeping it bright and tender.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining the herbed rice ingredients easily.
• Spatula: Useful for flipping the salmon without breaking it apart.

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Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 1 salmon fillet (56 oz)
• 1 tsp olive oil or butter
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika (to taste)
• 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)

For the Rice

• 1 cup cooked basmati or jasmine rice
• 1 tsp dried parsley or dill
• Pinch of salt

For the Vegetable

• 1 cup broccoli florets
• Salt, to taste
• Optional: drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon

How to Make Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice

Step 1: Cook the Salmon

1. Season the salmon fillet with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil or butter in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
3. Place the salmon skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
4. Flip the salmon carefully and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fully cooked through. Squeeze lemon juice on top if desired.

Step 2: Steam the Broccoli

1. While the salmon cooks, steam or microwave broccoli florets until tender but still bright green (about 3-5 minutes).
2. Season with salt and drizzle olive oil or a squeeze of lemon if you prefer.

Step 3: Flavor the Rice

1. In a mixing bowl, toss hot cooked rice with dried parsley or dill along with a pinch of salt.
2. Mix until evenly combined.

Step 4: Plate and Serve

1. Serve the pan-seared salmon alongside herbed rice and steamed broccoli.
2. Enjoy your wholesome meal that is both simple and nourishing!

How to Serve Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice

This Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice is a delightful meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Serve it on a Bed of Greens

• Use fresh spinach or mixed greens as a base for the salmon and rice. The greens add a refreshing crunch and extra nutrients.

Pair with a Light Salad

• A simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice complements the dish well. The acidity balances the richness of the salmon.

Add a Squeeze of Fresh Lemon

• Drizzling fresh lemon juice over the dish just before serving brightens the flavors, making each bite more vibrant.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkling chopped parsley or dill on top adds a pop of color and an aromatic finish that enhances the overall taste.

How to Perfect Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice

For an even better meal, consider these helpful tips to perfect your Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice.

• Choose fresh salmon: Fresh salmon fillets will yield a more flavorful and tender result compared to frozen options, ensuring a delightful meal.

• Use high-quality olive oil: A good quality olive oil enhances both the cooking process and flavor profile, making your dish richer and more satisfying.

• Don’t overcook the salmon: Keep an eye on cooking times; overcooked salmon can become dry. It should flake easily but remain moist.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to modify salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference for the perfect balance of flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice

When planning your meal, consider these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice.

1. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with diced vegetables makes for a nutritious side rich in protein and fiber.

2. Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned roasted asparagus adds both flavor and texture, enhancing your plate’s presentation.

3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort while complementing the salmon beautifully.

4. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini drizzled with olive oil offers a smoky flavor that pairs well with this dish.

5. Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch, creating a delightful contrast to the savory salmon.

6. Mixed Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful stir-fry of bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots brings brightness to your meal while being quick to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and presentation. Here are some tips to ensure your meal turns out perfectly.

• Ignoring the seasoning: Not adding enough salt or spices can lead to bland salmon. Always season generously to enhance the flavors.
• Overcooking the salmon: Cooking salmon for too long can make it dry. Keep an eye on the cooking time; aim for a golden brown crust and a tender center.
• Steaming broccoli improperly: Overcooked broccoli loses its vibrant color and nutrients. Steam until just tender and bright green for the best results.
• Using cold rice: Adding cold rice can make the dish less enjoyable. Ensure your rice is hot when tossing with herbs to enhance flavor absorption.
• Skipping lemon juice: Omitting lemon can reduce brightness in flavor. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving adds a refreshing zing.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2–3 days for best quality.

Freezing Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even cooking results.

What can I substitute for rice?

Quinoa or cauliflower rice makes great alternatives if you’re looking for something different while maintaining similar flavors.

Is Lemon-Garlic Salmon healthy?

Absolutely! This dish is high in protein and packed with nutrients from broccoli and herbs, making it a wholesome choice.

How can I customize my herbed rice?

Feel free to add different herbs like cilantro or chives, or mix in some vegetables like peas or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare. This recipe offers versatility; you can customize it with various herbs, vegetables, or grains according to your preference. Give it a try, and enjoy a nutritious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!

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Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice

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• Author: Florence
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 1

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Description

Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice is a vibrant and nutritious dish that brings together flaky salmon, tender broccoli, and aromatic herbed rice for a delightful meal. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. The zesty lemon and garlic elevate the flavor of the salmon while the herbed rice adds a fragrant touch. Not only is it quick to make, but it’s also packed with protein and fiber, making it a wholesome choice for any dinner table. Enjoy a satisfying plate that’s as delicious as it is healthy!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 salmon fillet (6 oz)
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Garlic powder, to taste
• Paprika, to taste
• 1 cup cooked basmati or jasmine rice
• 1 tsp dried parsley or dill
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• Optional: drizzle of olive oil or squeeze of lemon

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Instructions

1. 1. Season the salmon fillet with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. 2. Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook the salmon skin-side down for 3-4 minutes until golden brown; flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until done.
3. 3. While the salmon cooks, steam or microwave broccoli florets until bright green and tender (about 3-5 minutes); season with salt and optional olive oil or lemon juice.
4. 4. In a mixing bowl, toss hot cooked rice with dried parsley or dill and a pinch of salt until evenly combined.
5. 5. Plate the salmon alongside herbed rice and steamed broccoli.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Healthy

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor. Adjust seasoning according to your preference. Try adding different herbs like cilantro or chives to the rice for variety.