Mediterranean Garlic Butter Salmon with Roasted Potatoes, Glazed Carrots & Steamed Broccoli
This dish brings together the richness of garlic butter salmon with simple Mediterranean-style sides. Roasted potatoes come out crispy and seasoned, carrots are gently glazed with honey for a touch of sweetness, and broccoli adds freshness to balance the plate. It’s a wholesome, colorful meal that feels special yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Servings: 2
Ingredients
For the salmon:
1 salmon fillet
1 tbsp butter
1 garlic clove, smashed
½ tsp paprika
Salt & pepper, to taste
For the potatoes:
2 medium potatoes, peeled & diced
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper, to taste
For the carrots:
1 cup baby carrots
1 tbsp butter
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
For the broccoli:
1 cup broccoli florets
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Roast the Potatoes
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss diced potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Spread on a baking tray and roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
Glaze the Carrots
In a small pan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add carrots and cook for 5–6 minutes until they start to soften.
Drizzle in honey (or maple syrup) and stir to coat. Add chili flakes if using. Cook another 3–4 minutes until glossy and tender.
Steam the Broccoli
Bring a small pot of water to a simmer with a pinch of salt.
Place broccoli florets in a steamer basket or directly in the pot. Cover and steam 4–5 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Salmon
Pat the salmon dry and season both sides with paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the smashed garlic clove and let it infuse for 30 seconds.
Place salmon skin-side down and cook 4–5 minutes until the skin is crisp. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes, basting with the garlic butter, until cooked through and flaky.
Serve
Plate the salmon with roasted potatoes, glazed carrots, and steamed broccoli. Spoon any extra garlic butter from the pan over the fish for extra flavor.
Tips
Crispy salmon skin: Make sure the pan is hot and the salmon is patted dry before cooking. Don’t move it around while it sears.
Garlic flavor: Keep the garlic clove whole or lightly smashed so it infuses the butter without burning.
Roasting shortcut: Cut potatoes into smaller cubes to reduce cooking time.
Timing trick: Start roasting the potatoes first since they take the longest, then cook the other sides and salmon so everything finishes together.
Check salmon doneness: The fish should flake easily with a fork and be opaque in the center.
Variations
Herb boost: Add fresh parsley, dill, or thyme to the garlic butter for extra Mediterranean flavor.
Citrus twist: Squeeze lemon over the salmon right before serving, or roast the potatoes with lemon wedges for brightness.
Veggie swap: Use green beans, zucchini, or asparagus instead of broccoli.
Carrot upgrade: Toss the glazed carrots with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or slivered almonds.
Spicy kick: Swap paprika with smoked paprika or add cayenne for more heat.
Potato alternative: Try sweet potatoes for a sweeter, nutrient-rich option.
Q&A
Q: Can I bake the salmon instead of pan-searing it?
A: Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness. Brush with garlic butter before baking for flavor.
Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Absolutely. Use olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative instead of regular butter.
Q: How do I keep the salmon juicy?
A: Don’t overcook it. Remove from the pan when the salmon is just opaque in the center and flakes easily with a fork.
Q: Can I prep this ahead of time?
A: You can roast the potatoes and glaze the carrots in advance, then reheat them. Cook the salmon fresh for best taste and texture.
Q: What can I serve with this meal?
A: A side of tzatziki, a cucumber salad, or warm pita bread pairs perfectly with the Mediterranean flavors.
Nutrition Facts
(per serving, 2 servings total)
Calories: ~520–540
Protein: ~36g
Carbohydrates: ~34g
Fat: ~28g
Fiber: ~6g
Sodium: ~420mg
(Approximate values; exact numbers depend on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)
Conclusion
This Mediterranean garlic butter salmon plate is hearty, balanced, and full of fresh flavor. The salmon stays tender with a buttery garlic finish, while the roasted potatoes and honey-glazed carrots add comfort and sweetness. Steamed broccoli ties it all together with a fresh, healthy touch. It’s a complete dinner that feels restaurant-quality yet is easy enough to make at home.