Honeyed Lemon Salmon with Broccoli

Name: Honeyed Lemon Salmon with Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 3 tablespoons honey; Juice of 2 lemons; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 cups fresh broccoli florets

Highlighted under: Light & Fresh Meals

I absolutely love cooking this Honeyed Lemon Salmon with Broccoli! It’s a delightful dish that balances the sweetness of honey with the zesty brightness of lemon, creating a marinade that elevates the salmon to new heights. The inclusion of broccoli not only adds a vibrant color but also brings a nutritious crunch to the plate. It’s a quick meal that I often whip up on busy weeknights, and it never fails to impress my family. Let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful recipe that has become a staple in our kitchen.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-19T19:39:18.501Z

When I first tried this Honeyed Lemon Salmon with Broccoli, I immediately fell in love with how the flavors complemented each other. The subtle sweetness from the honey contrasts beautifully with the tangy lemon, making the salmon incredibly flavorful. One specific tip I learned is to let the salmon marinate for at least 15 minutes; this not only enhances the taste but also helps the fillets stay moist during cooking.

Additionally, I discovered that steaming the broccoli while the salmon cooks is a game changer. It ensures that both components are ready at the same time, and it keeps the broccoli vibrant and crisp, adding a perfect texture to the dish. Trust me, you’ll want to make this recipe again and again!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors
A quick and healthy weeknight dinner option
Beautiful presentation that impresses family and friends

Maximizing Flavor with the Marinade

The marinade for this Honeyed Lemon Salmon is what truly elevates the dish. By allowing the salmon to soak in the honey, lemon juice, and garlic mixture, the flavors penetrate the fish, enhancing its natural taste. For optimal results, I recommend letting it marinate for at least 30 minutes if time allows, as this will provide a deeper flavor profile. If you're short on time, even a 15-minute soak can work wonders but you risk missing out on that intense flavor infusion.

A great way to ensure the marinade adheres well to the salmon is to use a resealable bag. This not only helps coat the fish evenly but also minimizes cleanup. Just add the salmon and marinade to the bag, seal it, and give it a gentle shake. Make sure the fillets are completely submerged; if not, consider flipping the bag halfway through the marination process.

Perfecting the Broccoli

To achieve perfectly steamed broccoli, it's crucial to keep an eye on the cooking time. Steam it for about 5-7 minutes until it turns vibrant green and is tender yet still has a slight crunch. This not only retains nutrition but also creates a pleasing texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender salmon. If you prefer a bit more flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the steaming water, or a squeeze of lemon just before serving.

If you've got leftovers or want to meal prep, broccoli can be easily reheated. Just toss it in a pan with a touch of olive oil over low heat to bring back that crispness, or quickly microwave it for about 30 seconds to a minute, but be cautious not to overcook it, as this can lead to a mushy texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
3 tablespoons honey
Juice of 2 lemons
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cups fresh broccoli florets

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your dish:

Marinate the Salmon

In a bowl, whisk together the honey, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place the salmon fillets in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Prepare the Broccoli

While the salmon marinates, steam the broccoli in a pot until tender yet crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.

Cook the Salmon

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the marinated salmon fillets. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are cooked through and have a nice glaze.

Serve

Plate the salmon alongside the steamed broccoli and drizzle any remaining marinade over the top for extra flavor. Enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious Honeyed Lemon Salmon with Broccoli!

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds over the finished dish.

Serving Suggestions

While Honeyed Lemon Salmon shines as a star dish on its own, you can elevate the meal further by pairing it with a light grain. Quinoa or brown rice complements the flavors beautifully while also adding a nutritious element. For added flair, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or dill to enhance both appearance and flavor.

To make your meal more fulfilling, you can expand the vegetable side options. Consider roasting seasonal vegetables such as asparagus or bell peppers tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper. These additional colors and flavors will make your plate more vibrant and appealing.

Customizing Your Dish

Feel free to adjust the honey and lemon ratio in the marinade based on your taste preferences. If you enjoy a tangier profile, try adding an extra tablespoon of lemon juice. Conversely, if you prefer a sweeter glaze, a slightly more honey will round out the flavors. Additionally, swapping out salmon for other seafood such as tilapia or trout works well, just ensure you adjust the cooking time as thinner fillets will cook faster.

For those who avoid sugar, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar; just remember that these alternatives might change the overall flavor slightly. Also, if you want a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for an exciting twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, make sure to fully thaw the salmon before marinating and cooking.

→ What can I substitute for broccoli?

You can use asparagus, green beans, or snap peas as alternatives.

→ How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

→ Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the marinade a day ahead and keep it in the fridge.