Weeknight Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes

Introduction

This Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes and Broccoli is the kind of meal that ticks all the boxes: simple, healthy, bursting with flavor, and ready in under 40 minutes. Think crispy baby potatoestender roasted broccoli, and pan-seared salmon drenched in a buttery lemon garlic sauce.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or want to impress guests without the stress, this one-pan dinner brings restaurant vibes to your kitchen—no fancy techniques required.


Why I Love This Recipe

Here’s why this dish is a go-to in my weeknight dinner rotation:

  • Perfect balance of flavor – zesty lemon, rich butter, savory salmon
  • One-pan friendly – less cleanup, more flavor
  • A complete meal with healthy fats, protein, and fiber
  • Simple ingredients, big results
  • Easily adaptable—swap veggies or add a side of rice or quinoa

It’s wholesome comfort with a touch of elegance.


Ingredients

Serves 4

  • 4 salmon fillets 🐟
  • 1 lb baby potatoes, halved 🥔
  • 2 cups broccoli florets 🥦
  • 3 tbsp butter 🧈
  • 2 tbsp olive oil 🛢️
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon 🍋
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste 🧂
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish 🌿

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Roast the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss halved baby potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, cut side down for max crispiness.

2️⃣ Add the Broccoli

After 20 minutes, remove the sheet and add broccoli florets, tossed with the remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Roast for another 10 minutes, or until both the potatoes and broccoli are crispy and golden.

3️⃣ Cook the Salmon

While the veggies roast, heat butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Add garliclemon zest, and lemon juice, and let simmer for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Add salmon fillets, skin-side down if applicable, and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, basting with the lemon-butter sauce until cooked to your liking.

4️⃣ Plate and Serve

Divide the roasted potatoes and broccoli between plates.
Top with salmon and drizzle the remaining lemon-butter sauce from the skillet.

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.


Tips for Success

  • Use fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture.
  • For extra crispiness, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet.
  • Want it spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter sauce.
  • Swap in asparagus, green beans, or zucchini for the broccoli.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This dish is hearty on its own but also pairs beautifully with:

  • A chilled glass of sauvignon blanc or citrus-infused sparkling water
  • A side of quinoa or lemon rice
  • Warm bread or dinner rolls to mop up the sauce

Pair it with:


Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
  • Reheat gently in the oven or skillet to maintain texture
  • The lemon-butter sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days

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Final Thoughts

This Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes and Broccoli is a fresh, satisfying meal that comes together effortlessly. With its zesty, buttery sauce and golden roasted sides, it’s a dinner that proves healthy food can also be crave-worthy.

Tried it? Tag @chefmaniac and show off your perfectly seared salmon plate! Follow for more easy meals that taste like you spent hours—but didn’t.