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Garlic Parmesan Roasted Salmon & Broccoli is the kind of weeknight hero every busy home cook needs: it’s fast, flavorful, and fits perfectly into your rotation of Quick Healthy Dinner Recipes without feeling repetitive or boring. In one pan, you get crispy-tender broccoli, juicy salmon, and a rich garlic-Parmesan crust that tastes like something from a cozy bistro, yet it’s simple enough for a Monday night and friendly on the budget and cleanup.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe delivers a balanced meal in a single pan: protein, fiber-rich veggies, and satisfying healthy fats.

– Salmon is rich in high-quality protein and omega‑3 fatty acids, which support heart, brain, and joint health.
– Broccoli adds fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and antioxidants to support digestion, immunity, and overall wellness.
– Olive oil and a light sprinkle of Parmesan add satisfying flavor and healthy fats without making the meal heavy.
– Using the oven instead of frying keeps this dish light while still giving it that irresistible roasted flavor.

Nutrition (per serving)	Amount (approx.)
Calories	430
Carbohydrates	10 g
Protein	35 g
Total Fat	26 g
Saturated Fat	6 g
Fiber	4 g
Sugar	3 g
Sodium	420 mg

(Values will vary based on portion size and specific ingredients.)

Ingredients & Substitutions

Here’s what you’ll need to make this cozy, crowd-pleasing dinner.

For the salmon & broccoli

– Salmon fillets
– Fresh broccoli florets
– Olive oil
– Fresh garlic
– Grated Parmesan cheese
– Lemon
– Salt & black pepper
– Optional: Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, fresh parsley

Ingredient	Role	Possible Substitutions
Salmon fillets (about 4 oz each)	Main protein; rich, flaky fish that roasts beautifully	Steelhead trout, Arctic char, or cod fillets
Fresh broccoli florets	High-fiber veggie; roasts to tender-crisp perfection	Broccolini, cauliflower, green beans, or asparagus
Olive oil	Adds moisture, helps browning, carries flavors	Avocado oil, melted ghee, or canola oil
Fresh garlic (minced)	Bold, savory flavor base for the salmon and broccoli	Garlic powder (use 1/2–1 tsp), shallots, or garlic paste
Grated Parmesan cheese	Nutty, salty crust; adds umami and richness	Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano, or a dairy‑free Parmesan-style cheese
Lemon (zest + juice)	Brightens the dish and balances richness	Lime, a splash of white wine vinegar, or a squeeze of bottled lemon juice
Salt & black pepper	Basic seasoning, enhances all flavors	Sea salt, kosher salt, or seasoning blends like garlic salt
Italian seasoning (optional)	Adds herby, Mediterranean notes	Dried oregano, thyme, basil, or a mixed herb blend
Red pepper flakes (optional)	Gives a gentle heat and complexity	Cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili powder
Fresh parsley (optional)	Fresh, green garnish and color contrast	Chives, dill, basil, or cilantro (for a twist)

Equipment Needed

– Large sheet pan (rimmed baking sheet)
– Parchment paper or foil (for easier cleanup)
– Small bowl for mixing the garlic-Parmesan topping
– Knife and cutting board
– Zester or fine grater (for lemon zest)
– Measuring spoons and cup
– Tongs or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

This is one of those Quick Healthy Dinner Recipes you can make almost on autopilot once you’ve tried it a couple of times.

1. Prep your pan and oven

– Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
– Line a large sheet pan with parchment or foil for easy cleanup.
– Lightly brush or spray with oil if your pan tends to stick.

2. Season the broccoli

– Cut broccoli into medium florets (not too small so they don’t burn).
– In a bowl, toss broccoli with olive oil, minced garlic (use about 1/3), salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning if using.
– Spread broccoli on one side of the sheet pan in a single layer, leaving space for the salmon.

3. Prepare the garlic-Parmesan topping

– In a small bowl, combine the remaining minced garlic, grated Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, lemon zest, a pinch of salt, and black pepper.
– Mix until it forms a slightly thick, spoonable paste. Add a bit more oil if it looks dry.

4. Season the salmon

– Pat salmon fillets dry with a paper towel (this helps them roast instead of steam).
– Place them skin-side down (if skin-on) on the empty side of the sheet pan.
– Drizzle lightly with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
– Spoon the garlic-Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each fillet, pressing gently so it adheres.

5. Roast everything together

– Place the pan in the preheated oven.
– Roast for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness, until:
– The salmon flakes easily with a fork and is just opaque in the center.
– The broccoli edges are browned and slightly crisp, but the stems are tender.

If your salmon fillets are very thin, check them at 10–11 minutes so they don’t overcook.

6. Finish with lemon and serve

– Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon and broccoli right after they come out of the oven.
– Garnish with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan, if you like.
– Serve as is, or add a side of quinoa, brown rice, couscous, or crusty bread for a more filling meal.

Troubleshooting & Pro Tips

– Salmon came out dry:
– Reduce cooking time by 2–3 minutes next time or lower the oven to 400°F.
– Choose center-cut fillets that are evenly thick for more consistent cooking.

– Broccoli too soft or too crunchy:
– For softer broccoli, cut florets a bit smaller and add 2–3 extra minutes.
– For crisp-tender with more char, keep florets a bit larger and spread well so they roast, not steam.

– Parmesan topping not browning:
– Move the pan to the top rack for the last 2–3 minutes.
– If needed, broil on high for 1–2 minutes, watching closely.

– Pan feels crowded:
– Use an extra sheet pan if doubling the recipe. Overcrowding traps steam and prevents browning.

– Want more sauce?
– Whisk together 2–3 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan.
– Drizzle over everything right before serving for extra richness.

– Make it kid-friendly:
– Go lighter on the garlic and pepper.
– Serve with a familiar side (mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles) to make it more approachable.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

– Refrigerator:
– Store leftover salmon and broccoli in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

– Reheating:
– Reheat gently in a 275–300°F oven for 8–10 minutes, just until warmed through.
– Or use a covered skillet on low heat with a splash of water or broth to avoid drying out the fish.

– Meal prep:
– You can cut the broccoli and mix the garlic-Parmesan topping up to 24 hours in advance.
– Keep salmon fillets covered in the fridge; add the topping just before roasting.

– Freezing:
– Cooked salmon can be frozen up to 2 months, but texture is best fresh. Broccoli tends to get softer after freezing, so this dish is ideal enjoyed the day it’s made.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Salmon & Broccoli is a go-to recipe when you want dinner to feel special but still fit the reality of a busy schedule, and it slides effortlessly into your list of Quick Healthy Dinner Recipes that the whole family can enjoy on a regular weeknight. With one pan, minimal chopping, and mostly hands-off cook time, you get a satisfying, protein-packed, veggie-forward meal that works just as well for a simple family dinner as it does for a cozy date night at home. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll probably find yourself coming back to this combination again and again whenever you need something reliable, comforting, and good for you.

FAQ

Can I make this with frozen salmon?
Yes. Thaw the salmon completely in the refrigerator, then pat very dry before seasoning. If the fillets are still a bit icy, you may need to add 2–3 minutes to the cook time.

What can I serve with this to make it more filling?
Great options include brown rice, quinoa, couscous, roasted potatoes, or whole‑grain pasta. A simple green salad or garlic bread also works nicely.

Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan from a bag?
You can, but freshly grated Parmesan melts and browns more evenly and usually has better flavor. If using pre-shredded, press it firmly onto the salmon so it sticks.

How do I know when the salmon is done without overcooking?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and be just opaque in the center. If you use a thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 125–130°F for moist, tender salmon (it will rise slightly as it rests).

Is this recipe good for meal prep lunches?
Absolutely. Portion salmon and broccoli into containers with a grain like quinoa or rice. Reheat gently and squeeze fresh lemon over just before eating for the best flavor.

If you enjoy recipes like this, where everything comes together on one pan with minimal fuss, you might also love exploring more Quick Healthy Dinner Recipes such as this fun game-day style Quick And Easy Dinner Recipes twist to add to your rotation. Follow me on Pinterest for more Garlic Parmesan Roasted Salmon & Broccoli.