Picture this: the comforting aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen as you prepare a meal that’s both hearty and healthy. One night, after a long day filled with work and errands, I craved something satisfying yet uncomplicated—something I could whip up in just one skillet. That’s when the idea for this One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli was born.
With creamy garlic sauce hugging perfectly seared salmon, fresh broccoli mingling in for a nutritional boost, and a mere 10g of carbs per serving, this dish became an instant favorite! It’s vibrant, flavorful, and best of all, it clears the clutter from your kitchen. Just think of those busy weeknights when fast food loses its appeal—this recipe offers an easy solution that nourishes the soul and satisfies the palate. Let’s dive into the cooking process so you can experience the magic for yourself!
Why will you love One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli?
Simplicity at its Best: This recipe allows you to enjoy a hearty meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.
Rich, Creamy Flavor: The garlic sauce mixed with perfectly cooked salmon presents a deliciously indulgent taste without guilt.
Nutritious Boost: Fresh broccoli not only adds color but also provides essential vitamins, making this a wholesome choice.
Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish can be on your table in about 30 minutes, keeping your evening stress-free.
Low-Carb Delight: With only 10g of carbs per serving, it’s a great option for those mindful of their carb intake.
Transform your weeknight meals with this delightful recipe that is sure to impress and nourish!
One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli Ingredients
For the Salmon
• Salmon fillets – Fresh salmon brings rich flavor; feel free to use skin-on or skinless for your preference.
• Cajun seasoning – Adds a spicy kick; adjust according to your heat tolerance for the perfect kick!
• Olive oil – Used for searing; can be substituted with avocado oil for a different taste.
For the Sauce
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic provides an aromatic base; if you’re in a hurry, garlic powder works as a backup.
• Margarine – Creates a creamy texture; swap for butter or a dairy-free alternative if needed.
• Fat-free half & half – Keeps the sauce creamy without excess fat; non-dairy creamer is a great substitution here.
• Chicken stock – Enhances flavor; vegetable stock can be used for a vegetarian friendly option.
For the Vegetables
• Broccoli florets – Adds nutrition and crunch; can be replaced with asparagus or green beans for variety.
• Baby bella mushrooms – Contributes a lovely umami flavor; any mushroom type can work in this recipe.
• Salt and pepper – To taste; season according to your palate, ensuring each flavor shines through.
This One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli is not only a feast for the taste buds but also caters to healthy eating. Get ready to whip up a comforting and delicious meal in one pot!
How to Make One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli
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Heat Oil: Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This helps to get the perfect sear on your salmon, enhancing its flavor and texture.
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Season Salmon: Generously season the salmon fillets with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. This will infuse the fish with a deliciously spicy taste that complements the creamy sauce.
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Sear Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in the hot skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until cooked to your liking (don’t forget to flip!). When finished, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
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Make Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the margarine and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, then stir in the fat-free half & half and chicken stock. Let it gently simmer for a couple of minutes until slightly thickened.
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Add Vegetables: Toss in the broccoli florets and baby bella mushrooms, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Cover the skillet and cook for roughly 5-7 minutes, until the broccoli is vibrant green and tender.
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Combine and Serve: Return the seared salmon to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce generously over the fish and veggies. Serve immediately, and enjoy every scrumptious bite!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your cooking—these delicious twists will enhance your meal experience!
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Chicken Alternative: Swap salmon for chicken breast or thighs for a hearty, protein-packed option that pairs beautifully with the sauce.
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Vegetable Mix: Add vibrant red bell peppers or spinach for a color boost and an extra layer of nutrients that will keep your dish exciting.
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Creamy Twist: For a richer sauce, stir in some cream cheese with the half & half; it creates an indulgent creaminess that’s hard to resist!
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Herb Swap: Replace thyme with fresh dill or parsley to give a fresh, aromatic twist that brightens up the overall flavor profile.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for those nights when you’re craving something with a bit more heat.
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Mushroom Variety: Experiment with different mushrooms like shiitake or cremini to elevate the umami factor, giving your dish a unique flavor depth.
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Nutty Flavor: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or almonds just before serving for added crunch and a delightful nutty taste that complements the creaminess.
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Zesty Boost: A squeeze of lemon juice or zest stirred into the sauce right before serving will add brightness, enhancing the overall flavor and freshness of the dish.
Make Ahead Options
These One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli are perfect for busy weeknights! You can season and sear the salmon up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the garlic sauce and chop the broccoli and mushrooms ahead of time. For best quality, keep the sauce separate until you’re ready to cook; this prevents the broccoli from becoming too soft. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, add the mushrooms and vegetables, and cook until tender. Finally, return the salmon to the pan and warm it through—it’ll be just as delicious with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli
- Perfectly Cooked Salmon: Ensure your salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe and delicious eating.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and broccoli for vibrant flavors and textures, as they truly enhance the dish compared to frozen alternatives.
- Even Cooking: Sear the salmon in a hot skillet to achieve that lovely crust, which locks in moisture and flavor during the cooking process.
- Don’t Overcook Vegetables: Keep an eye on the broccoli; it should be tender but still bright green for the best taste and appearance in your One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli.
- Personalize Seasoning: Adjust Cajun seasoning according to your heat preference. Try adding a squeeze of lemon for a zesty twist!
What to Serve with Creamy One-Pot Garlicky Salmon & Asparagus?
The delightful combination of flavors and textures in this dish makes it easy to create a well-rounded meal.
- Fluffy Quinoa: This nutty grain soaks up the creamy garlic sauce beautifully, making every bite delightful.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, it’s perfect for wiping up the last bits of sauce—comfort food at its best!
- Simple Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens with a light vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast to the rich salmon.
- Steamed Rice: White or brown rice complements the dish’s richness while providing a neutral base that’s hearty and satisfying.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they offer a delightful crunch that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing drink that cleanses the palate, enhancing the flavors of the meal without overpowering them.
- Cheesy Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that brings creaminess and a slight hint of cheese—absolutely delicious!
- Lemon Tart: A light and zesty dessert that rounds off the meal with a refreshing and palate-cleansing finish.
Storage Tips for One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help preserve the creamy sauce and vibrant vegetables.
Freezer: If you need to freeze, pack the dish in a freezer-safe container. It can be kept for up to 2 months, but expect a slight change in texture when thawed.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, ensuring the salmon retains its moistness and the sauce remains creamy.
Airtight Packing: When storing, make sure to seal tightly to avoid freezer burn, especially if you’re freezing your One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli.
One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli Recipe FAQs
What type of salmon should I use for the recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh salmon fillets provide the best flavor, but if frozen is what you have on hand, no worries! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly—about 1-2 minutes longer for frozen salmon compared to fresh.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This method helps preserve the creamy texture of the sauce and the freshness of the broccoli, keeping your dish delicious for later meals!
Can I freeze One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli?
Yes, you can! To freeze, pack the dish in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s sealed tightly to avoid freezer burn. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it gently in a skillet over low heat.
What should I do if my salmon is overcooked?
No problem! If you find that your salmon has become dry, try serving it with a little extra sauce on top, or mix in a splash of lemon juice for added moisture. Next time, keep a close eye on the cooking time, aiming for about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
Can I substitute the broccoli with another vegetable?
Definitely! While broccoli offers a lovely crunch and nutritional boost, you can easily substitute it with asparagus, green beans, or even spinach for a different flavor and texture. The more the merrier!
Is this recipe suitable for anyone with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli is low-carb with only 10g of carbs per serving, making it a great option for those watching their carb intake. Just make sure to use dairy-free margarine and a non-dairy creamer to make it safe for those with dairy allergies. Enjoy delicious meals that fit your dietary needs!
One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli for Easy Weeknight Wins
Equipment
- - Large skillet
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 2 fillets Salmon Fresh salmon brings rich flavor; feel free to use skin-on or skinless for your preference.
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning Adjust according to your heat tolerance.
- 1 tbsp Olive oil Can be substituted with avocado oil.
For the Sauce
- 3 cloves Garlic Fresh minced for the best flavor; garlic powder can work in a pinch.
- 2 tbsp Margarine Swap for butter or a dairy-free alternative if needed.
- 1 cup Fat-free half & half Non-dairy creamer is a great substitution.
- 1 cup Chicken stock Vegetable stock can be used for a vegetarian option.
For the Vegetables
- 2 cups Broccoli florets Can be replaced with asparagus or green beans.
- 1 cup Baby bella mushrooms Any mushroom type works.
- to taste Salt Season according to your palate.
- to taste Pepper Ensure each flavor shines through.
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Generously season the salmon fillets with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Place the salmon fillets in the hot skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until cooked to your liking.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the margarine and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the fat-free half & half and chicken stock. Let it gently simmer for a couple of minutes until slightly thickened.
- Toss in the broccoli florets and baby bella mushrooms, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Cover and cook for roughly 5-7 minutes.
- Return the seared salmon to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce generously over the fish and veggies. Serve immediately.