If there’s one dinner that perfectly balances comfort food satisfaction with clean, wholesome ingredients, it’s Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes & Broccoli. This dish brings together tender, flaky salmon coated in a rich lemon butter sauce, golden oven-roasted potatoes with irresistible crunch, and vibrant broccoli that adds freshness and color to the plate.

This recipe is designed for busy home cooks who still want something impressive on the table. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but elegant enough to serve guests. Best of all, everything comes together with familiar ingredients and minimal prep, making it a reliable go-to meal you’ll want to repeat again and again.

Salmon has long been celebrated for its nutritional value, especially its omega-3 fatty acids, but pairing it with crispy potatoes and roasted broccoli transforms it into a full, balanced meal that feels indulgent without being heavy. The lemon butter sauce is the real hero here — bright, silky, and packed with flavor, it enhances the natural richness of the salmon without overpowering it.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes & Broccoli delivers restaurant-quality results straight from your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish checks all the boxes:

One meal, complete balance — protein, vegetables, and carbs in one plate
Simple ingredients you probably already have
Crispy textures and buttery richness without deep frying
Healthy yet satisfying, perfect for clean eating
Customizable with different veggies or seasonings

It’s also incredibly forgiving. Even if you’re new to cooking salmon, this recipe guides you toward perfectly cooked fish every time.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Paprika (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Crispy Potatoes

1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Broccoli

2 cups broccoli florets
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: chili flakes or lemon zest

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Prepare the potatoes by tossing them in olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them cut-side down on the baking sheet.
Roast the potatoes for 20 minutes, until they begin to turn golden and crispy.
Add the broccoli to the baking sheet, tossing lightly with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Push potatoes to one side if needed.
Return to the oven and roast for another 10–12 minutes, until broccoli is tender with slightly crispy edges.
Season the salmon with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add lemon juice and zest, stirring gently to combine into a glossy sauce.
Sear the salmon in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable, for 3–4 minutes per side until cooked through and flaky.
Spoon lemon butter sauce over the salmon generously.
Serve immediately, plating salmon alongside crispy potatoes and broccoli. Garnish with parsley and extra lemon if desired.

Pro Tips for Perfect Salmon

Let salmon sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking
Don’t overcrowd the pan — it helps achieve a better sear
Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor
Avoid overcooking; salmon should flake easily but stay moist

Variations & Substitutions

Swap broccoli for asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts
Use sweet potatoes instead of baby potatoes for a sweeter twist
Add herbs like thyme or dill to the lemon butter sauce
Make it dairy-free using olive oil instead of butter

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with:

A light green salad
Garlic yogurt sauce or tzatziki
Crusty bread to soak up extra lemon butter

It’s perfect for dinner, meal prep, or even a healthy date-night meal at home.

Fun Food Fact

Salmon has been a staple food for thousands of years, especially in coastal regions. The combination of lemon and butter became popular in European cooking as a way to balance rich fish flavors — a tradition that still shines today.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Butter Salmon with Crispy Potatoes & Broccoli is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. It’s comforting, nourishing, and packed with flavor — the kind of meal that makes home cooking feel rewarding.

Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular on your dinner rotation.