Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini recipe

My family are self-proclaimed salmon aficionados, and we’ve tried countless preparations over the years – grilled, pan-seared, poached, you name it. But there’s something undeniably comforting and utterly delicious about a simple baked salmon. Recently, I stumbled upon a recipe for Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini, and let me tell you, it’s become a weeknight staple in our home. The salmon emerges from the oven flaky, moist, and infused with a delicate buttery richness, perfectly complemented by the slightly charred, tender-crisp broccolini. Even my pickiest eater, who usually shies away from green vegetables, devoured the broccolini alongside the salmon. This dish is not just incredibly flavorful, it’s also remarkably easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. If you’re looking for a healthy, satisfying, and effortlessly elegant meal, you absolutely must try this recipe. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients for Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini

Creating this delectable Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini requires just a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients. The simplicity of the ingredient list is part of the magic of this recipe – each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and contributing to the overall texture of the dish. Let’s break down each ingredient and discuss why it’s essential and what you should look for when selecting them.

• Salmon Fillets: The star of our dish, salmon fillets are not only incredibly flavorful but also packed with health benefits. For this recipe, we recommend using 1.5 pounds of salmon fillets, skin on or skin off, about 1-inch thick. The choice between skin-on or skin-off is largely personal preference. Skin-on salmon will become beautifully crispy during baking and provides extra flavor and healthy fats. If you opt for skin-off, the salmon will still be wonderfully tender and buttery. When selecting your salmon, look for fillets that are vibrant in color, moist-looking, and have a fresh, ocean-like scent, not fishy. Consider the type of salmon as well. Sockeye or King salmon will be richer in flavor and higher in fat content, resulting in an even more decadent dish. Coho or Atlantic salmon are milder and still delicious options. For sustainability, look for wild-caught Alaskan salmon or responsibly farmed options.
• Broccolini: Broccolini, sometimes called baby broccoli, is a hybrid vegetable that’s a cross between broccoli and Chinese broccoli. It has longer, thinner stalks and smaller florets than broccoli and a slightly sweeter, milder flavor. For this recipe, you’ll need 1 pound of broccolini, trimmed. Trimming means removing the tougher, woody ends of the stalks. Broccolini cooks quickly and becomes beautifully tender-crisp in the oven, making it the perfect vegetable pairing for the salmon. If you can’t find broccolini, you can substitute with broccoli florets, asparagus spears, or green beans. However, broccolini’s delicate texture and slightly sweet flavor really complement the richness of the salmon.
• Butter: Butter is the key to the “buttery” in Buttery Baked Salmon. We’ll be using 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, cut into small pats. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish precisely. The butter will melt in the oven, creating a luscious sauce that coats both the salmon and the broccolini, adding richness and depth of flavor. For an even richer flavor, consider using European-style butter, which has a higher fat content. If you are dairy-free, you can substitute with a good quality olive oil, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.
• Garlic: Garlic is a flavor powerhouse, and it adds a wonderful aromatic dimension to this dish. You’ll need 2 cloves of garlic, minced. Freshly minced garlic is always best for flavor. Garlic enhances the savory notes of the salmon and complements the buttery sauce beautifully. If you are a big garlic fan, feel free to add an extra clove or two!
• Lemon: Lemon is essential for brightening the flavors and adding a touch of acidity to balance the richness of the butter and salmon. You’ll need 1 lemon, thinly sliced, plus lemon wedges for serving. The lemon slices will be placed over the salmon during baking, infusing it with their citrusy aroma and flavor. Fresh lemon juice is also crucial for serving, as a squeeze of lemon at the end really elevates the dish.
• Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add a layer of freshness and aromatic complexity. We recommend using 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, dill, or thyme. Parsley adds a clean, fresh flavor, dill brings a bright, slightly citrusy note that pairs wonderfully with salmon, and thyme offers a more earthy, savory touch. You can use a single herb or a combination of your favorites. Fresh herbs are always preferred for their vibrant flavor, but in a pinch, you can use dried herbs, using about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs in place of 1 tablespoon of fresh.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps to prevent the broccolini from drying out in the oven and adds a touch of healthy fat. You’ll need 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors. You’ll need Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Season generously, as salt and pepper are crucial for bringing out the best in all the ingredients. Freshly ground black pepper is always recommended for its bolder flavor.

By using these carefully selected, high-quality ingredients, you’re setting the stage for a truly exceptional Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini. The combination of fresh salmon, tender broccolini, rich butter, fragrant garlic, bright lemon, and aromatic herbs creates a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and sophisticated.

Instructions: Baking Buttery Salmon with Broccolini

Baking salmon and broccolini together is surprisingly straightforward, making it an ideal weeknight meal. This recipe is designed to be simple and efficient, yet deliver maximum flavor. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create perfectly baked Buttery Salmon with Broccolini every time.

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for baking both salmon and broccolini to perfection – ensuring the salmon is cooked through and flaky while the broccolini becomes tender-crisp without burning. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Parchment paper is great for easy cleanup and prevents sticking, while foil is also effective and readily available. Using a large baking sheet is important as it allows you to spread out the salmon and broccolini in a single layer, which promotes even cooking.
2. Prepare the Broccolini: While the oven is preheating, prepare the broccolini. Place the 1 pound of trimmed broccolini in a large bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss the broccolini with your hands to ensure it’s evenly coated with olive oil and seasonings. This step is crucial for preventing the broccolini from drying out in the oven and for enhancing its flavor. Spreading the broccolini in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet is important for even roasting.
3. Prepare the Salmon: Next, prepare the salmon fillets. Pat the 1.5 pounds of salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Patting the salmon dry helps to ensure a nice sear (or in this case, browning in the oven) and removes any excess moisture. Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet with the broccolini, leaving some space between them. If using skin-on salmon, you can place them skin-side down for crispier skin, or skin-side up if you prefer softer skin.
4. Make the Buttery Garlic Topping: In a small bowl, combine the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, cut into small pats, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Mix them together slightly. Distribute the butter and garlic mixture evenly over the salmon fillets. Place the thinly sliced lemon over the salmon fillets as well. The butter will melt and infuse the salmon with rich, buttery flavor, while the garlic and lemon will add aromatic complexity and brightness. Ensure each salmon fillet gets a fair share of the butter and lemon.
5. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the broccolini is tender-crisp and slightly browned. The cooking time can vary slightly depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets and your oven. To check if the salmon is done, gently flake it with a fork at the thickest part. If it flakes easily and is no longer translucent, it’s cooked. The broccolini should be bright green and slightly tender with some browning around the edges. Avoid overbaking the salmon, as it can become dry.
6. Garnish and Serve: Once the salmon and broccolini are cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or thyme) over the salmon and broccolini. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing fresh lemon juice over the dish just before eating. The fresh herbs add a final touch of freshness and flavor, while the lemon wedges allow everyone to customize their dish with a squeeze of bright citrus.

Following these simple instructions will result in perfectly baked Buttery Salmon with Broccolini every time. The combination of flaky, flavorful salmon and tender-crisp broccolini, infused with buttery garlic and bright lemon, makes for a truly satisfying and healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Nutrition Facts for Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini

This Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s also a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with lean protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, this dish is a fantastic choice for a balanced and wholesome meal. Let’s break down the estimated nutrition facts per serving.

Serving Size: 1 serving

Servings Per Recipe: Approximately 4 servings

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.)

Approximate Nutrition Facts Per Serving:

• Calories: 450-550 calories
• Protein: 40-50 grams
• Fat: 25-35 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 8-12 grams
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 10-15 grams
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 5-8 grams (including Omega-3 fatty acids)
• Cholesterol: 120-150 mg
• Sodium: 300-400 mg (can vary based on added salt)
• Carbohydrates: 5-7 grams
  • Fiber: 2-3 grams
  • Sugar: 2-3 grams
• Vitamin D: High (Salmon is an excellent source)
• Vitamin B12: High (Salmon is an excellent source)
• Potassium: Good source
• Iron: Good source
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Excellent source (EPA and DHA)

Nutritional Highlights and Benefits:

• Excellent Source of Lean Protein: Salmon is a fantastic source of high-quality protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and promoting satiety. Protein is also crucial for enzyme and hormone production.
• Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon is renowned for its high content of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA. These essential fats are vital for heart health, brain function, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall well-being. Regular consumption of omega-3s is linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, improved cognitive function, and mood regulation.
• Good Source of Vitamins and Minerals: This dish is packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Salmon is an excellent source of Vitamin D, crucial for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. It’s also rich in Vitamin B12, essential for nerve function and red blood cell formation. Broccolini contributes vitamins like Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and folate, as well as minerals like potassium and iron.
• Low in Carbohydrates and Moderate in Healthy Fats: This recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following lower-carb diets or managing blood sugar levels. The fats in this dish are primarily healthy fats from salmon and olive oil, contributing to satiety and overall health.
• Fiber-Rich Broccolini: Broccolini provides dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health, regulating blood sugar levels, and promoting feelings of fullness. Fiber also contributes to a healthy gut microbiome.
• Antioxidant-Rich: Both salmon and broccolini are sources of antioxidants. Salmon contains astaxanthin, an antioxidant that gives it its pink color and may have anti-inflammatory and protective effects. Broccolini is rich in various antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.

By choosing Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini, you’re not only treating yourself to a delicious meal but also nourishing your body with a wealth of essential nutrients. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that supports your health and well-being.

Preparation Time for Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini

One of the many advantages of this Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini recipe is its quick and easy preparation. Perfect for busy weeknights, you can have this healthy and flavorful meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Let’s break down the estimated time involved:

Total Preparation Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes

Breakdown of Time:

• Prep Time (Including ingredient gathering, washing, trimming, and chopping): 10-15 minutes
  • Gathering ingredients from the refrigerator and pantry.
  • Washing the broccolini and lemon.
  • Trimming the ends of the broccolini.
  • Mincing the garlic.
  • Chopping fresh herbs (if using).
  • Slicing the lemon.
  • Cutting butter into pats.
  • Patting salmon fillets dry.
• Cook Time (Baking in the oven): 12-15 minutes
  • Preheating the oven takes a few minutes, but this can be done while you are prepping the ingredients.
  • Baking the salmon and broccolini in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes.
• Rest Time (Optional, but recommended): 2-3 minutes
  • Allowing the salmon to rest for a couple of minutes after baking helps to redistribute the juices, resulting in even more tender and flavorful salmon.

Time-Saving Tips for Even Faster Preparation:

• Pre-mince Garlic: If you frequently cook with garlic, consider pre-mincing a larger batch and storing it in the refrigerator. This can save you a few minutes during prep time.
• Pre-chop Herbs: Similarly, you can pre-chop fresh herbs and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a day or two.
• Use Pre-cut Broccolini: Some grocery stores sell pre-trimmed broccolini, which can save you the step of trimming the stalks.
• Assemble While Oven Preheats: Maximize your time by prepping the broccolini and salmon while the oven is preheating. This way, you can pop everything into the oven as soon as it reaches temperature.
• One-Pan Meal: This recipe is inherently a one-pan meal, which minimizes cleanup time after cooking.

With its minimal prep time and quick cooking, Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini is an excellent choice for a healthy and delicious meal when you’re short on time. It proves that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish.

How to Serve Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini

Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini is a complete and satisfying meal on its own, but there are many ways to enhance the dining experience and create a more elaborate spread. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

Side Dish Pairings:

• Grains:
  • Quinoa: A fluffy and protein-rich grain that complements the salmon beautifully. Try seasoned quinoa with herbs or lemon zest.
  • Brown Rice: A wholesome and nutty grain that provides a hearty base for the meal.
  • Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous, especially Israeli couscous, is a quick and easy side.
  • Roasted Potatoes: For a more substantial meal, roasted potatoes (sweet potatoes or regular potatoes) are a classic pairing.
  • Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious buttery sauce.
• Salads:
  • Simple Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the salmon.
  • Cucumber and Dill Salad: A cool and crisp salad that complements the flavors of salmon and dill.
  • Caprese Salad: The classic combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil adds a vibrant Italian touch.
  • Lemon Orzo Salad: A light and lemony orzo salad with vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives.
• Vegetables:
  • Roasted Asparagus: If you love roasted vegetables, asparagus is another great choice to bake alongside or serve as a side.
  • Steamed Green Beans: Simple steamed green beans with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice.
  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts: For a more robust vegetable side, roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze are delicious.
  • Avocado: Slices of creamy avocado add healthy fats and a smooth texture to the plate.

Sauce and Topping Enhancements:

• Lemon-Dill Sauce: A classic pairing for salmon. A simple sauce made with Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, fresh dill, and garlic.
• Garlic Aioli: Creamy garlic aioli adds extra richness and flavor.
• Chimichurri Sauce: A vibrant and herbaceous Argentinian sauce made with parsley, cilantro, garlic, oregano, red wine vinegar, and olive oil, for a zesty kick.
• Pesto: A dollop of pesto (basil pesto, sun-dried tomato pesto, or other variations) adds a burst of flavor.
• Salsa Verde: A bright and tangy salsa verde provides a refreshing counterpoint to the buttery salmon.
• Everything Bagel Seasoning: Sprinkle Everything Bagel seasoning over the salmon and broccolini after baking for added texture and flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the dish before serving.

Presentation Tips:

• Arrange Nicely: Plate the salmon fillet alongside a generous portion of broccolini.
• Garnish Freshly: Sprinkle fresh herbs just before serving to enhance aroma and visual appeal.
• Lemon Wedges: Always serve with lemon wedges for squeezing fresh lemon juice over the dish.
• Sauce Drizzle: If using a sauce, drizzle it lightly over the salmon or serve it on the side for dipping.
• Color Contrast: The vibrant green of the broccolini and the pink of the salmon create a visually appealing dish. Use white plates to make the colors pop.

By considering these serving suggestions and presentation tips, you can transform your Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini into a truly memorable and enjoyable meal for any occasion.

Additional Tips for Perfect Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini

While this recipe is incredibly easy to follow, a few extra tips can help you achieve absolute perfection every time you make Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini. Here are five additional tips to elevate your dish:

1. Don’t Overcook the Salmon: The biggest mistake people make with salmon is overcooking it. Overcooked salmon becomes dry and tough. The key to perfectly cooked salmon is to bake it just until it’s cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Use a fork to gently flake the thickest part of the salmon to check for doneness. It should be opaque and no longer translucent in the center. Remove it from the oven as soon as it’s ready – it will continue to cook slightly as it rests.
2. Ensure Even Cooking of Broccolini: To ensure the broccolini cooks evenly and becomes tender-crisp, spread it in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding the pan will cause the broccolini to steam instead of roast, resulting in soggy vegetables. If you are making a larger batch, use two baking sheets or roast in batches. Tossing the broccolini with olive oil and seasoning before roasting is also crucial for proper cooking and flavor.
3. Adjust Baking Time Based on Salmon Thickness: The recipe calls for salmon fillets that are about 1-inch thick. If your fillets are thinner or thicker, you’ll need to adjust the baking time accordingly. Thinner fillets will cook faster (closer to 10-12 minutes), while thicker fillets may need a few extra minutes (up to 15-18 minutes). Always check for doneness using the flaking test, regardless of the baking time.
4. Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients: The simplicity of this recipe means that the quality of the ingredients really shines through. Use fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture. Look for vibrant, moist-looking fillets with a fresh scent. Fresh garlic, lemon, and herbs will also make a significant difference in the overall taste of the dish compared to older or dried versions.
5. Experiment with Flavor Variations: While the basic recipe is delicious as is, feel free to experiment with flavor variations to suit your taste preferences.
   • Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture or sprinkle some cayenne pepper over the broccolini for a touch of heat.
   • Lemon-Herb Marinade: Marinate the salmon in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before baking for extra flavor infusion.
   • Parmesan Crust: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the salmon and broccolini during the last few minutes of baking.
   • Soy-Ginger Glaze: For an Asian-inspired flavor, brush the salmon with a soy-ginger glaze before baking.

By keeping these additional tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to consistently creating perfectly cooked, flavorful, and impressive Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini that will impress your family and friends every time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini, to help you troubleshoot and ensure your dish is a success:

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but it’s essential to thaw it completely before baking. The best way to thaw frozen salmon is to place it in the refrigerator overnight. For faster thawing, you can place the sealed salmon in a cold water bath for about 30-60 minutes, changing the water every 30 minutes. Ensure the salmon is fully thawed and patted dry before proceeding with the recipe to ensure even cooking.

Q2: Can I substitute broccolini with broccoli or another vegetable?

A: Absolutely! If you can’t find broccolini, you can easily substitute it with broccoli florets. Cut the broccoli florets into similar sizes as broccolini florets. You can also use asparagus spears, green beans, or even Brussels sprouts. Keep in mind that different vegetables may have slightly different cooking times, so adjust accordingly. Broccoli florets might need a few extra minutes compared to broccolini.

Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: While Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini is best served fresh and hot from the oven, you can prep some components ahead of time. You can trim the broccolini, mince the garlic, chop the herbs, and slice the lemon in advance. Store these prepped ingredients separately in the refrigerator. However, it’s not recommended to fully bake the dish ahead of time, as the salmon and broccolini are best when freshly cooked. If you need to reheat leftovers, do so gently in the oven or microwave to prevent the salmon from drying out.

Q4: How do I store leftovers of Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini?

A: Store leftover Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven at a low temperature (around 250°F or 120°C) or in the microwave. Reheating in the oven is preferable for maintaining the texture of the salmon and broccolini. Add a splash of water or lemon juice when reheating in the microwave to help keep the salmon moist.

Q5: Can I grill the salmon and broccolini instead of baking?

A: Yes, you can definitely grill the salmon and broccolini! Grilling will impart a smoky flavor that is delicious. To grill the salmon, preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on) on the grill grates and grill for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. For the broccolini, toss it with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and grill it alongside the salmon in a grill basket or directly on the grates for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender-crisp and slightly charred. You can still use the butter and garlic topping on the grilled salmon – just add it during the last few minutes of grilling so the butter melts without burning.

We hope these FAQs address any questions you might have about making Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini. Enjoy cooking and savoring this delicious and healthy meal!

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