A delicious dish that combines the flavors of Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice is perfect for any occasion. This clean, protein-packed meal features flaky pan-seared salmon, tender steamed broccoli, and aromatic herbed rice. It’s light, satisfying, and great for a weeknight dinner or meal prep!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of lemon and garlic enhances the salmon’s natural flavors while keeping it fresh.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and nutrients, this dish is nutritious without sacrificing taste.
• Versatile Sides: Broccoli and herbed rice complement the salmon beautifully but can be swapped for your favorite vegetables or grains.
• Single Serving: Perfectly portioned for one, making it easy to enjoy a wholesome meal without leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to prepare this delightful dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick skillet
• Steamer or microwave-safe bowl
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick skillet: Ensures that the salmon cooks evenly without sticking, making cleanup easier.
• Steamer or microwave-safe bowl: Perfect for quickly steaming broccoli while retaining its bright color and crunch.
• Cooking spoon: Useful for mixing rice with herbs evenly to enhance flavor.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 1 salmon fillet (5-6 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 according to your taste preferences.
2. Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
3. Place the salmon skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
4. Flip the salmon carefully and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until it is cooked through.

Step 2: Steam the Broccoli

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

Step 3: Flavor the Rice

1. In a bowl, toss hot cooked rice with dried parsley or dill along with a pinch of salt to enhance its flavor.

Step 4: Plate and Serve

1. Serve your pan-seared salmon alongside the herbed rice and steamed broccoli on a plate.
2. Enjoy this simple yet nourishing meal that’s bursting with flavor!

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

This delightful dish is not only nutritious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

Enjoy it with a Sauce

• Lemon Butter Sauce: Drizzle a simple lemon butter sauce over the salmon for extra richness.
• Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic aioli can add a zesty kick that complements the flavors.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a refreshing side.
• Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad can add crunch and creaminess to your meal.

Add Whole Grains

• Quinoa: Substitute herbed rice with fluffy quinoa for added protein and texture.
• Farro: This nutty grain adds a chewy contrast that pairs well with salmon.

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

To make your Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice even more delicious, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t be shy with the seasonings. A well-seasoned salmon enhances flavor dramatically.
• Perfect Cooking Time: Cook salmon until it flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking for the best texture.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and herbs for vibrant flavors that elevate your dish.
• Steaming Technique: When steaming broccoli, keep it bright green and tender by not overcooking it.
• Rice Texture: Fluff cooked rice gently; this keeps it airy and prevents clumping.
• Presentation Matters: Arrange the components artfully on the plate for an inviting presentation.

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

For a well-rounded meal, pair your Lemon-Garlic Salmon with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting for a delicious veggie option.
3. Couscous Salad: Light and fluffy couscous mixed with vegetables adds texture and flavor to your plate.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Simple grilled zucchini drizzled with balsamic glaze brings freshness to the meal.
5. Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potato wedges seasoned with paprika provide a sweet contrast to the savory salmon.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds brightness and acidity, balancing out the richness of the fish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice can be straightforward, but some common mistakes may hinder your dish. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Overcooking the Salmon: Overcooked salmon can become dry and tough. Keep an eye on the cooking time and check for flakiness to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.

• Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoned food can lack flavor. Be generous with salt, pepper, and spices to enhance the taste of your salmon and vegetables.

• Not Steaming Broccoli Properly: Overcooking broccoli can lead to a mushy texture and loss of color. Steam until just tender while keeping it bright green for the best presentation.

• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add a vibrant flavor to your rice. Don’t skip this step; they elevate the dish significantly!

• Using Cold Rice: Adding cold rice to your dish can cool down everything else. Make sure your rice is hot when mixing in herbs for better flavor integration.

• Ignoring Presentation: A well-plated meal enhances the dining experience. Take a moment to arrange the salmon, broccoli, and rice neatly on the plate before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place salmon and sides on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Cover food in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth, cover, and heat until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice?

Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice is a nutritious dish featuring flaky salmon seasoned with lemon and garlic, paired with steamed broccoli and herbed rice.

Can I use frozen salmon?

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

How do I customize my herbed rice?

Feel free to experiment by adding different herbs such as basil or cilantro, or incorporating vegetables like peas or bell peppers into your herbed rice.

What other vegetables pair well with this dish?

In addition to broccoli, you could try asparagus, green beans, or zucchini for variety alongside your Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice is not only healthy but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by swapping out vegetables or using different herbs according to your preference. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, making it an excellent choice for any home cook. Give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!

Print

Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice

---

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

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Lemon-Garlic Salmon with Broccoli & Herbed Rice is a vibrant and nutritious dish that brings together the delicate flavors of flaky salmon, crisp broccoli, and aromatic herbed rice. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights, as it can be prepared in just 20 minutes. Bursting with freshness from lemon and garlic, every bite offers a satisfying combination of protein and essential nutrients without compromising on taste. The versatility of this recipe allows you to swap in your favorite vegetables or grains, making it ideal for meal prep or a weeknight dinner.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 salmon fillet (5–6 oz)
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika (to taste)
• 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
• 1 cup cooked basmati or jasmine rice
• 1 tsp dried parsley or dill
• Pinch of salt
• 1 cup broccoli florets

---

Instructions

1. Season the salmon with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook the salmon skin-side down for 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook for 2-3 more minutes until cooked through.
3. Steam or microwave broccoli florets for 3-5 minutes until tender but bright green; season with salt.
4. Toss hot cooked rice with dried herbs and salt to enhance flavor.
5. Plate the salmon alongside broccoli and herbed rice.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: For added richness, drizzle lemon butter sauce over the salmon. Experiment with different herbs like basil or cilantro in your rice for varied flavor profiles.