Garlic Butter-Roasted Salmon with Potatoes is a foolproof one-pan meal that combines flaky, tender salmon with crispy roasted potatoes in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is easy to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and delivers maximum flavor. With a hint of fresh herbs and a touch of lemon, it’s a healthy, hearty meal that will satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients
For the Salmon and Potatoes:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 ½ pounds baby potatoes (halved or quartered if large)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (or 2 teaspoons fresh)
- 1 lemon (sliced into wedges)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
Preparation
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
2. Season and Roast the Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the baby potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and thyme or rosemary. Spread the potatoes evenly on the baking sheet. Roast for 15 minutes, stirring halfway through.
3. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, remaining olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
4. Add the Salmon:
Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Push the potatoes to the sides, making space for the salmon fillets in the center. Brush the salmon generously with the garlic butter mixture.
5. Roast the Salmon and Potatoes:
Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. For extra crispy edges, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon and potatoes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Include asparagus, green beans, or broccoli on the pan for a complete one-pan meal.
- Swap the Protein: Substitute salmon with cod, trout, or chicken breast for different flavors.
- Herb Choices: Try dill, basil, or oregano for a different herb profile.
Cooking Note
To prevent overcooking, use a thermometer to check the salmon’s internal temperature. It should reach 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part. If using different-sized fillets, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Garlic Butter-Roasted Salmon with a crisp green salad or steamed asparagus. A glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements the rich, buttery flavors beautifully.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: Chop the potatoes and prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
- Leftover Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or until warmed through.
- Crispier Potatoes: For even crispier potatoes, roast them an extra 5-10 minutes before adding the salmon.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 35g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fat: 30g
- Sodium: 610mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to ensure even roasting and better seasoning absorption.
What potatoes work best for this recipe?
Baby potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes work best due to their creamy texture and ability to crisp up nicely. However, red potatoes or fingerlings are great alternatives.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like vegan butter or additional olive oil.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter-Roasted Salmon with Potatoes is a perfect combination of simplicity and elegance, ideal for any night of the week. With its savory garlic butter, crispy potatoes, and fresh herbs, it’s a meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your time constraints. Give it a try, and watch it become a regular on your dinner rotation!