Baked Salmon with Lemon Herb Sauce and Roasted Vegetables Recipe

If you are looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug and delivers a burst of fresh, vibrant flavors, the Baked Salmon with Lemon Herb Sauce and Roasted Vegetables Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe combines perfectly roasted salmon and tender vegetables with a luscious, creamy lemon herb sauce that is both tangy and comforting. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for weeknights yet special enough for guests. You’ll fall in love with every bite as the buttery sauce melds beautifully with the earthy roasted potatoes and crisp broccoli, creating a harmonious plate that’s as pretty as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about simple, quality ingredients that come together to create an amazing flavor profile, texture, and vibrant color. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the golden potatoes adding heartiness to the bright lemon bringing freshness. Here’s what you’ll need to nail this dish.

• 1 lb. small gold potatoes: Cut into bite-sized pieces for perfect roasting and a crispy outside with a fluffy inside.
• Olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper: Essential for seasoning your roast vegetables to flavorful perfection.
• 2-3 cups broccoli florets: Baby broccoli works wonderfully here for its tenderness and subtle sweetness.
• 1-2 lbs. salmon fillets: Fresh salmon is the star; aim for thick, skin-on pieces for juiciness and easy browning.
• 6-8 tablespoons butter: For the rich and creamy base of the lemon herb sauce.
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant kick that awakens all the flavors.
• 1 shallot, minced: This mild onion adds depth and sweetness to the sauce.
• 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme: A wonderfully herbaceous note that pairs beautifully with salmon.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Provides creaminess that balances the acid and keeps the sauce luscious.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and helps loosen the sauce to just the right consistency.
• Juice of 1 lemon: Fresh squeezed lemon juice is what brightens the sauce and makes it irresistible.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil: Fresh herbs finish the dish with vibrancy and color.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that bring everything together perfectly.

How to Make Baked Salmon with Lemon Herb Sauce and Roasted Vegetables Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Toss the bite-sized gold potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to coat them evenly. Spread them out on the sheet so they roast evenly, and pop them in the oven for about 25 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and get crispy on the edges. This roasting step gives the potatoes a beautiful texture that contrasts perfectly with the smoothness of the salmon and sauce.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Herb Sauce

While your potatoes roast, it’s time to prepare the sauce that truly elevates this dish. Melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat in a small saucepan. Add the minced garlic, shallot, and fresh thyme sprigs, sautéing gently for 3 to 5 minutes until fragrant and soft. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook slowly to thicken until it coats the back of a spoon. Remove the thyme sprigs, then whisk in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley or basil. Season generously with salt and pepper, and give it a taste—you’re now holding a velvety sauce that’s full of bright, amazing flavors.

Step 3: Add Salmon and Broccoli to Roast

After the potatoes have had their 25 minutes, nestle the salmon fillets and broccoli florets onto the same baking sheet. Drizzle or toss them with a little more olive oil, salt, and pepper to enhance their natural flavors. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, just until the salmon is fully cooked but still juicy and flaky. The broccoli will roast to tender-crisp perfection alongside the salmon, soaking up some of that wonderful pan aroma.

Baked Salmon with Lemon Herb Sauce and Roasted Vegetables Recipe Complete

Once your salmon flakes easily with a fork and your roasted vegetables look appetizingly tender, your dish is ready to come out of the oven. This beautiful combination of textures and flavors is ready to be plated and enjoyed.

How to Serve Baked Salmon with Lemon Herb Sauce and Roasted Vegetables Recipe

Garnishes

Serving this beautiful salmon dish with fresh lemon wedges and an extra sprinkle of fresh herbs really enhances its bright and herbal elements. Feel free to add a few additional sprigs of thyme or a scattering of chopped parsley on top to keep things fresh and colorful.

Side Dishes

This recipe shines perfectly on its own as a one-pan meal, but if you’re craving something extra, consider a crisp green salad or some crusty artisan bread to soak up every last drop of the luscious lemon herb sauce. Steamed asparagus or a light quinoa salad also pairs wonderfully and adds another layer of texture.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive presentation, try layering the salmon on a bed of roasted potatoes and broccoli on each plate, then generously spooning the lemon herb sauce over the top. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a twist of fresh lemon zest adds that beautiful finishing touch for guests who love visual appeal with their meals.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers from this Baked Salmon with Lemon Herb Sauce and Roasted Vegetables Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salmon may lose a touch of its optimum texture but will still taste fantastic, especially if reheated gently.

Freezing

While the sauce can be frozen separately, salmon generally fares better when enjoyed fresh. If you must freeze leftovers, pack the salmon and vegetables tightly in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month for the best flavor. Thaw slowly overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the salmon and veggies in a warm oven (about 300 degrees Fahrenheit) covered with foil to prevent drying out. Warm until heated through, then add a quick drizzle of fresh lemon juice or a spoonful of the previously prepared sauce to revive the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables besides broccoli?

Absolutely! While broccoli pairs wonderfully here, you can swap in green beans, asparagus, or even Brussels sprouts depending on your preference. Just be mindful of cooking times so everything roasts evenly.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream in the sauce?

The heavy cream adds richness and smoothness to the lemon herb sauce, but if you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative. Just keep in mind the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque but still moist in the center. Overcooking leads to dryness, so it’s best to check a few minutes before the suggested baking time just to be safe.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes, this entire recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free, which most are. It’s a fantastic option for gluten-sensitive eaters craving a delicious baked salmon meal.

What type of lemon herb sauce herbs work best?

Fresh thyme, parsley, and basil are all excellent choices for this sauce. You can mix and match based on what you have on hand or your flavor preference. Fresh herbs always bring the sauce to life.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say this Baked Salmon with Lemon Herb Sauce and Roasted Vegetables Recipe is a keeper that will become a regular on your table. It’s straightforward yet luxurious, comforting but fresh, and made with ingredients that feel both wholesome and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, this meal is guaranteed to bring smiles and lingering “mmm” moments. So grab your ingredients and get ready for a truly wonderful dinner experience!

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