One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli is a vibrant and nutritious dish that’s bound to become a staple in your dinner rotation. This recipe features tender salmon fillets seared to perfection, infused with the rich flavor of garlic, and accompanied by beautifully crisp-tender broccoli and sweet red bell peppers. The colors pop, the aroma tantalizes, and the ease of preparation ensures this meal fits effortlessly into any busy schedule. With just one skillet involved, the cooking and cleanup is a breeze, making it the perfect choice for weeknight dinners or a special occasion.

I first discovered this gem during a week when I was determined to eat healthier. The blend of flavors and the beautiful presentation caught my eye, and I knew I had to try it. As I plated the dish, the vibrant greens and the glistening salmon were just so inviting! Each bite felt like a hug from the inside, and the best part? It took less than thirty minutes from start to finish, giving me more time to unwind after a long day. So if you’re in the mood for a simple, delectable meal that’s sure to impress, you have to make this One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: The rich garlic flavor paired with the zesty orange accents makes every bite delightful.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The gorgeous colors of the salmon and vegetables make for a visually inviting plate.
Flexible Serving: Ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or a casual gathering with friends.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets, making it suitable for many dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: This healthy fat adds richness and helps prevent sticking. You can substitute it with avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
1¼ pounds skinless center-cut salmon fillet: Fresh, high-quality salmon is key here. If salmon isn’t available, try trout or another flaky fish.
8 cloves garlic, thinly sliced, divided: Garlic adds a punch of flavor in this dish. Use fresh cloves for the best taste, but jarred minced garlic can work in a pinch.
¾ teaspoon salt, divided: This enhances the flavors of the dish. Sea salt or kosher salt works well here.
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper: Adds a hint of heat. Feel free to adjust to your spice preference or omit if you prefer a milder taste.
5 cups broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen broccoli can be used. Fresh will give a nicer crunch but frozen is a great time-saver.
2 red bell peppers, seeded and chopped (2 cups): They bring sweetness and vibrant color. Yellow or orange bell peppers can be substituted as well.
1 tablespoon water: Helps create steam when cooking the vegetables, ensuring they stay tender-crisp.
1 teaspoon grated orange zest: This brightens the dish with its fresh, citrus aroma. Be sure to use organic oranges to avoid pesticides.
1½ tablespoons orange juice: Adds acidity and sweetness. Freshly squeezed juice is ideal, but bottled juice will work in a pinch.
1 tablespoon reduced-sodium tamari: A gluten-free soy sauce alternative that deepens the savory flavor of the dish. Regular soy sauce can also be used if gluten isn’t a concern.
1 tablespoon thinly sliced scallions: Garnish with scallions to add a fresh crunch and vibrant green color.

How to Make One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli

Heat the Oil: In a large nonstick skillet with a lid, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.

Sear the Salmon: Add 1¼ pounds of skinless center-cut salmon fillet cut into 1-inch pieces and half of the 8 sliced garlic cloves in an even layer. Sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper. Cook uncovered for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the salmon is opaque throughout. Carefully transfer the salmon to a plate, using a fish spatula or tongs.

Cook the Vegetables: Without wiping the skillet clean, toss in 5 cups of broccoli florets, 2 chopped red bell peppers, 1 tablespoon of water, and the remaining 4 sliced garlic cloves, along with ¼ teaspoon salt. Cover the skillet and let it cook, stirring occasionally, for about 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Add Flavor Components: Stir in 1½ tablespoons of orange juice and 1 tablespoon of reduced-sodium tamari, letting the mixture bubble for a moment.

Combine and Garnish: Gently fold in the seared salmon. Really take care not to break it up too much. Once everything is combined, divide the mixture among 4 shallow bowls. Spoon any remaining liquid from the skillet over the servings, then finish with 1 teaspoon of grated orange zest and 1 tablespoon of thinly sliced scallions for a fresh finish.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you prefer to freeze it, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container and it can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. The texture of the broccoli may soften a bit after freezing, but it will still be delicious!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the salmon; it should flake easily but still be moist. Aim for just opaque throughout.
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, particularly the garlic and orange zest.
If you’re short on time, consider prepped or frozen vegetables to cut down on prep work.
Feel free to switch up the vegetables— zucchini or snap peas can be great alternatives.
For a bit more crunch, top with toasted nuts or seeds, such as sesame seeds or slivered almonds.

With its delightful balance of flavors and easy cooking method, this dish is poised to be a crowd-pleaser at your table. Experiment with different vegetables or seasonings, and don’t hesitate to make it your own. The inviting aroma alone will have everyone feeling at home.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still work wonderfully in this recipe.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, if you use reduced-sodium tamari as a soy sauce alternative. Always check labels to ensure your ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like asparagus, snap peas, or carrots, adjusting cooking times for the best results.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon should turn opaque and flake easily with a fork. If you have a food thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for perfectly cooked salmon.

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Recipe Card

One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli

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Author: Danae
Prep Time: N/A
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 0 hours
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dishes
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American

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Description

Savor the delightful flavors of One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli. This easy recipe brings together succulent salmon, fresh broccoli, and vibrant bell peppers in a flavorful garlic sauce, perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1¼ pounds skinless center-cut salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch pieces
8 cloves garlic, thinly sliced, divided
¾ teaspoon salt, divided
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
5 cups broccoli florets
2 red bell peppers, seeded and chopped (2 cups)
1 tablespoon water
1 teaspoon grated orange zest
1½ tablespoons orange juice
1 tablespoon reduced-sodium tamari
1 tablespoon thinly sliced scallions

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Instructions

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the salmon pieces and half of the sliced garlic in an even layer.
Sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt and crushed red pepper.
Cook uncovered for 4 to 5 minutes until the salmon is opaque on all sides and cooked through, then transfer to a plate.
In the same skillet, add broccoli, chopped bell peppers, 1 tablespoon water, the remaining garlic, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
Cover and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp, stirring occasionally.
Stir in 1½ tablespoons orange juice and 1 tablespoon tamari, and gently fold in the cooked salmon.
Serve in shallow bowls and spoon any remaining pan liquid over the top.
Top with orange zest and sliced scallions for garnish.