As the sun starts to warm up the days and the evenings become slightly longer, I find myself drawn to meals that celebrate the freshness of spring. There’s something incredibly satisfying about bringing simple, wholesome ingredients together into a colorful dish that bursts with flavor. That brings me to today’s star: Honey Lemon Sheet Pan Salmon with Broccolini.
What to Pair with This Dish?
So, let’s talk about what to pair with this culinary delight. A refreshing quinoa salad or a light, citrusy rice would complement the salmon beautifully. For drinks, I often reach for a chilled glass of white wine, perhaps a Sauvignon Blanc, which goes wonderfully with fish. You could also whip up a zingy cucumber mint cooler to quench your thirst!
The beauty of this salmon dish is its versatility. It shines whether served as an elegant dinner or a cozy family meal. You can keep things simple, so why not include a crunchy side salad for that extra crunch or some roasted potatoes to soak up the glaze?
Why This Recipe is Great for You
Now, let’s take a closer look at why I absolutely love this recipe. First off, it’s breathtakingly easy! I can toss everything onto a pan, let the oven do the work, and still have enough time to enjoy a glass of wine or entertain my guests.
Second, it’s packed with nutrients. Salmon is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. These are excellent for your heart and brain health. With the addition of broccolini, you’re also getting a shot of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Lastly, the honey lemon glaze takes everything to another level. It adds a touch of sweetness and a rich depth of flavor without overwhelming the dish. Trust me; it’s like a gentle hug for your taste buds.
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How I Use the Ingredients
Let me take you through how I use these ingredients to create a dish that not only nourishes but tastes amazing too! The fish itself—salmon—is one of my favorites. The succulent, buttery texture combined with a crispy skin when cooked just right is something I can never resist. Plus, it’s super forgiving; if you accidentally overcook it, it usually still turns out just fine.
Next, let’s chat about broccolini. It’s kind of like broccoli’s cooler cousin. Its thin stalks and small florets cook up beautifully alongside the salmon, adding a pop of color and a bit of crunch. Don’t even get me started on the ginger and garlic in the glaze—they bring the flavor punch that gets everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients List
For the Salmon and Veggies:
- 4 salmon fillets, 5 oz each
- Olive oil, for brushing
- Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 12 oz tender broccolini spears
For the Honey Lemon Glaze:
- ½ teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (helps thicken the glaze)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- Juice of 1 fresh lemon
- 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup raw honey
- ¼ cup filtered water
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
For Garnish:
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
How to Make Honey Lemon Sheet Pan Salmon with Broccolini
Let’s dive into the cooking process. I promise, it’s a breeze!
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your salmon cooks evenly and quickly when it hits that hot pan.
Step 2: Prepare Salmon and Broccolini
On a sheet pan lined with parchment paper, lay out your salmon fillets. Drizzle them lightly with olive oil and season with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Arrange the broccolini around the salmon to keep it all in one tray.
Step 3: Make the Honey Lemon Glaze
In a bowl, whisk together the honey, lemon juice, soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, and cornstarch. Mix until the cornstarch dissolves completely. Next, add the filtered water and toasted sesame oil. For those who love a bit of heat, toss in the crushed red pepper flakes, and give it another good mix.
Step 4: Coat the Salmon and Broccolini
Pour the glaze over the salmon and broccolini. Use a spoon to make sure each fillet and spear gets a bit of that fantastic mixture, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
Step 5: Roast in the Oven
Slide the sheet pan into the preheated oven. Roast for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the broccolini turns a vibrant green. If you like a little extra caramelization, you can broil for the last couple of minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once everything is cooked to perfection, remove the pan and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and green onions. This adds an extra crunch and a fresh taste to your dish.
Nutrition Information
Recipe Notes
Salmon Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is a staple in many healthy diets. I recommend using wild-caught salmon for its distinct flavor and ethical sourcing.
Broccolini Broccolini is a hybrid vegetable that’s a cross between broccoli and Chinese kale. It’s tender yet has a delightful crunch, making it a fun addition to dishes.
Honey Raw honey not only adds sweetness but also has natural antibacterial properties. It’s a fantastic pantry staple that can elevate many recipes.
Soy Sauce Opt for a reduced-sodium soy sauce to maintain the flavor without overwhelming your dish with salt. It’s a versatile ingredient that adds umami depth.
Sesame Oil The toasted version gives your glaze an intense flavor. A little goes a long way; it adds a nutty touch that complements the salmon beautifully.
Ginger and Garlic Both provide health benefits along with their robust flavors. Freshly minced garlic delivers a more potent flavor compared to garlic powder.
Recipe Variations
You can easily switch things up based on what’s in your kitchen!
- Switch the Protein: Hate salmon? Try chicken or shrimp for a twist.
- Add Different Veggies: Zucchini, asparagus, or green beans also work well.
- Change the Glaze: Swap out the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly option.
- Make it Spicy: Add sriracha or chili paste for some extra heat.
- Incorporate Nuts: Walnuts or almonds could be sprinkled on top for added texture.
- Substitute Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can add a burst of freshness.
Honey Lemon Sheet Pan Salmon with Broccolini
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your salmon cooks evenly and quickly when it hits that hot pan.
- On a sheet pan lined with parchment paper, lay out your salmon fillets. Drizzle them lightly with olive oil and season with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Arrange the broccolini around the salmon to keep it all in one tray.
- In a bowl, whisk together the honey, lemon juice, soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, and cornstarch. Mix until the cornstarch dissolves completely. Next, add the filtered water and toasted sesame oil. For those who love a bit of heat, toss in the crushed red pepper flakes, and give it another good mix.
- Pour the glaze over the salmon and broccolini. Use a spoon to make sure each fillet and spear gets a bit of that fantastic mixture, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
- Slide the sheet pan into the preheated oven. Roast for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the broccolini turns a vibrant green. If you like a little extra caramelization, you can broil for the last couple of minutes.
- Once everything is cooked to perfection, remove the pan and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and green onions. This adds an extra crunch and a fresh taste to your dish.
Nutrition
Notes
- Salmon Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is a staple in many healthy diets. I recommend using wild-caught salmon for its distinct flavor and ethical sourcing.
- Broccolini is a hybrid vegetable that’s a cross between broccoli and Chinese kale. It’s tender yet has a delightful crunch, making it a fun addition to dishes.
- Honey Raw honey not only adds sweetness but also has natural antibacterial properties. It’s a fantastic pantry staple that can elevate many recipes.
- Soy Sauce Opt for a reduced-sodium soy sauce to maintain the flavor without overwhelming your dish with salt. It’s a versatile ingredient that adds umami depth.
- Sesame Oil The toasted version gives your glaze an intense flavor. A little goes a long way; it adds a nutty touch that complements the salmon beautifully.
- Ginger and Garlic Both provide health benefits along with their robust flavors. Freshly minced garlic delivers a more potent flavor compared to garlic powder.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure to thaw it properly in the refrigerator before cooking. Also, check for excess moisture and pat it dry to achieve a good sear.
2. How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of about 145°F (63°C).
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can prep the salmon and glaze a few hours ahead. Keep the broccolini and salmon marinating in the glaze, and pop everything in the oven when you’re ready.
4. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying them out.
5. Is this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and check for gluten-free options for the other ingredients.
6. Can I cook this on the grill?
You can! Use a grill-proof pan or aluminum foil to keep the salmon from falling apart. The glaze will caramelize beautifully over the grill’s flames.
Conclusion
Honey Lemon Sheet Pan Salmon with Broccolini encapsulates ease, health, and deliciousness all on one sheet pan. It’s a dish that doesn’t just nourish; it tells a story of simplicity and flavor.
As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I find joy in transforming everyday ingredients into something special. You can easily impress family and friends or simply enjoy a lovely evening meal for yourself. This recipe offers balance, freshness, and a hint of indulgence thanks to that divine glaze.
I hope you feel inspired to try this dish! A world of flavors awaits you, and your taste buds may just thank you. Happy cooking!
