Name: Buttery Baked Salmon with Baby Broccoli in Just 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1.5-2 pounds Wild Salmon Fillet (Choose wild-caught for maximum flavor and health benefits.); Real Butter (Vegan butter can be used for a dairy-free option.); 3 cloves Garlic (Finely chopped; garlic powder (1 tsp) can work in a pinch.); 1 Shallot (Finely chopped (approx. ½ cup); substitute with red onion if needed.); ½ teaspoon Sea Salt (Enhances flavors; adjust according to preference.); 1 teaspoon Dried Basil (Fresh basil could be a flavorful substitute.); Freshly Ground Black Pepper (Season according to your spice preference.); 1 pound Sweet Baby Broccoli/Broccolini (Washed and pat-dried; regular broccoli or asparagus can work as alternatives.); 2-3 tablespoons Olive Oil (Avocado oil is a great substitute as well.); 2-3 sprigs Fresh Rosemary (Feel free to swap with thyme for a different taste profile.)

As I stood in the kitchen, the mouthwatering aroma of garlic and shallots wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to my favorite seaside restaurant. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Buttery Baked Salmon with Baby Broccoli—a dish that’s not only healthy but also a celebration of color and flavor. In just 30 minutes, you can prepare a nutritious, gluten-free meal that feels like a indulgent feast, perfect for impressing friends or simply treating yourself after a long day. This salmon is delightfully buttery and moist, complemented by tender baby broccoli, offering a satisfying bite with every forkful. Curious to learn how to create this easy, guilt-free delight? Let’s dive in together!

Why is this salmon recipe a must-try?

Simplicity at Its Finest: The straightforward preparation means you only need about 30 minutes to whip up this delicious meal.

Buttery Flavor: The rich combination of real butter and garlic creates a mouthwatering sauce that infuses each bite of salmon.

Healthy Choice: Not only is this dish gluten-free, but it also fits perfectly into a low-carb or keto diet, making it both nutritious and satisfying.

Versatile Side: The broccolini adds a pop of color and nutrition, but feel free to swap it with asparagus or serve over quinoa for more variety.

Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or a small gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the garlic and shallots ahead of time to speed up the cooking process, leaving you free to enjoy your meal with loved ones.

Buttery Baked Salmon Ingredients

• Prepare for a delicious experience!

For the Salmon

Wild Salmon Fillet (1 ½ – 2 pounds) – The star of this dish, choose wild-caught for maximum flavor and health benefits.
Real Butter – Provides richness and flavor; vegan butter can be used for a dairy-free option.
Garlic (3 cloves, finely chopped) – Adds aromatic depth; for convenience, garlic powder (1 tsp) can work in a pinch.
Shallot (1, finely chopped – approx. ½ cup) – Offers mild onion flavor; substitute with red onion if needed.
Sea Salt (½ teaspoon, plus more to taste) – Enhances flavors; adjust according to your preference.
Dried Basil (1 teaspoon) – Adds a lovely herbal note; fresh basil could be a flavorful substitute, just use more.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Balances taste; season according to your spice preference.

For the Broccolini

Sweet Baby Broccoli/Broccolini (1 pound, washed, and pat-dried) – A delightful vegetable side that roasts beautifully; regular broccoli or asparagus can work as alternatives.
Olive Oil (2-3 tablespoons) – Adds richness while helping to roast the veggies; avocado oil is a great substitute as well.
Fresh Rosemary (2-3 sprigs) – Imparts an aromatic flavor; feel free to swap with thyme for a different taste profile.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buttery Baked Salmon with Baby Broccoli

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper, ensuring easy cleanup later. This will be the base for your Buttery Baked Salmon with Baby Broccoli, providing a perfect non-stick surface.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a medium skillet, melt a couple of tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped garlic and shallots, sautéing them for about 30 seconds until fragrant and just turning golden. Remove the mixture from heat and set aside, letting the butter absorb those delightful flavors.

Step 3: Prepare the Salmon
Take the wild salmon fillet and gently pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season the skin side generously with sea salt, then place the salmon skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. This step ensures a beautifully seasoned surface for your Buttery Baked Salmon to bake perfectly.

Step 4: Add Butter Mixture
Pour the sautéed butter, garlic, and shallots generously over the top of the salmon fillet. Sprinkle dried basil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste over it, enhancing the flavor profile. The buttery mixture is about to create a deliciously rich crust, so make sure to coat evenly for maximum taste.

Step 5: Prepare the Broccolini
Wash and pat dry the sweet baby broccoli, then arrange it around the salmon on the baking sheet. Drizzle the broccolini with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper as well. This vibrant vegetable will roast beautifully alongside your salmon, adding color and nutrition to your meal.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Carefully place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on the salmon; it’s done when it becomes flaky and opaque, with a slightly translucent center. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the thickness of your salmon fillet.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let it sit for a minute. Garnish your Buttery Baked Salmon with fresh rosemary sprigs placed atop the fish for an added aromatic touch. Serve it warm alongside the tender roasted broccolini, and enjoy the delightful symphony of flavors!

Buttery Baked Salmon with Variations

Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen as you customize this delightful salmon recipe!

Dairy-Free: Swap real butter with vegan butter, ensuring a rich and delicious flavor without dairy.
Garlic Lovers: Add roasted garlic instead of raw for a mellower, sweeter taste that beautifully enhances the salmon.
Citrus Zest: Grate some fresh lemon or orange zest over the dish before baking to give your salmon a zesty brightness.
Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or parsley in place of dried basil to elevate the freshness.
Spicy Twist: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle sriracha before baking for a kick of heat that livens up the dish.
Creamy Essence: Serve with a tangy yogurt sauce on the side, made with Greek yogurt, dill, and lemon—perfect for dipping!
Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a delightful crunch and extra texture.
Satisfying Base: For a heartier meal, serve your buttery baked salmon over fluffy quinoa or alongside roasted potatoes, pairing perfectly with its buttery notes.

Feel free to explore these variations to create your own special version of this Buttery Baked Salmon with Baby Broccoli. For a different flavor profile, try it with Honey Sriracha Salmon. Enjoy!

Expert Tips for Buttery Baked Salmon

Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest ingredients possible for the best flavor; wild salmon fillet makes a noticeable difference in this buttery baked salmon dish.

Check Thickness: Cooking time varies with the thickness of the salmon. Thicker fillets may need a few extra minutes, so be sure to adjust accordingly.

Avoid Overcooking: Salmon can dry out quickly; always err on the side of caution and check for doneness at the 15-minute mark.

Herb Alternatives: If you don’t have fresh rosemary, consider using thyme or dill for a different flavor profile in your buttery baked salmon.

Storage Tips: Leftover salmon can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven to preserve moisture and flavor without drying out.

Make Ahead Options

These Buttery Baked Salmon with Baby Broccolini are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the garlic and shallots up to 24 hours in advance, sautéing them as directed and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can season the salmon and arrange the broccolini on the baking sheet, covering it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerating it for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, simply preheat your oven and top the salmon with the prepared butter mixture, then bake as instructed. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, high-quality meal with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Buttery Baked Salmon with Broccolini

Looking to complete your meal? Here are some delightful pairings to elevate your dining experience and complement the buttery salmon.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness enhances your dish while providing a smooth contrast to the salmon’s flaky texture.
Garlic Roasted Asparagus: The earthy flavors and slight crunch perfectly balance the buttery salmon, adding a refreshing green element to your plate.
Quinoa Salad: A light, fluffy quinoa salad with herbs, lemon, and cherry tomatoes adds a zesty touch that brightens every bite.
Crisp Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine with creamy dressing and crunchy croutons brings a delightful contrast to the tender salmon and broccolini.
Lemon Sorbet: This light, refreshing dessert cleanses your palate, offering a sweet-sour finish after the rich flavors of the main course.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay enhances the buttery notes while complementing the seafood beautifully.
Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini sautéed lightly with garlic provides a low-carb, fresh side that pairs well with the salmon’s flavors.
Olive Oil Cake: This subtly sweet, moist cake makes a lovely ending to your meal, connecting the buttery essence of the main dish with dessert.

How to Store and Freeze Buttery Baked Salmon

Fridge: Store leftover buttery baked salmon in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Gently reheat in the oven to maintain moisture and flavor.

Freezer: You can freeze the salmon for up to 3 months. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag; this helps prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a 375°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, ensuring it remains moist and flavorful.

Broccolini Storage: If you have leftover broccolini, store it separately in the fridge and consume within 2 days for the best taste and texture.

Buttery Baked Salmon with Tender Broccolini Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting salmon, look for wild-caught options if possible. The flesh should be vibrant in color and not have any dark spots or unpleasant odors. Fresh salmon fillets should feel firm to the touch and should not be overly slimy.

What is the best way to store leftover baked salmon?
Leftover buttery baked salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I recommend gently reheating it in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes to maintain its moist texture, as microwaving may dry it out.

Can I freeze leftover salmon and broccolini?
Yes, you can freeze leftover salmon for up to 3 months! Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. Unfortunately, broccolini doesn’t freeze well, as it can lose its texture. It’s best to enjoy it fresh or store it separately in the fridge for a couple of days.

What should I do if I overcooked the salmon?
Very! If your salmon is overcooked and dry, consider making a creamy sauce (like a yogurt or cream-based sauce) to drizzle over it, which can help add moisture back in. Alternatively, flaking the salmon and mixing it into a salad with vinaigrette can also help mask dryness.

Is this dish suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Yes, this buttery baked salmon with baby broccoli is naturally gluten-free! Ensure that all ingredients, including any sauces or sides you choose to serve, are labeled gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.

Can my pet eat salmon?
Absolutely! Cooked plain salmon is safe for dogs in moderation and can be a nice treat. However, ensure it’s unseasoned and free from any bones. It’s best to consult your veterinarian before introducing a new food like salmon into your pet’s diet.