Name: One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli
Prep time: PT-492981H27M53S
Cook time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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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One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli is an absolute delight for those busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying yet quick to prepare. This dish features tender salmon pieces infused with aromatic garlic, perfectly paired with vibrant broccoli and sweet red bell peppers, all cooked in a single skillet. It’s a refreshing meal that not only tastes great but also comes together in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal solution for anyone juggling work, family, or other commitments.

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

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You have the rich, buttery flavor of salmon complemented by the crunch of broccoli and the sweetness of bell peppers. The addition of garlic provides a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen and makes your taste buds sing. Plus, this recipe is versatile, so you can enjoy it for dinner or even repurpose leftovers for lunch the next day. I can assure you that once you try this One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli, it will become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Irresistible Flavor: Garlicky salmon with a touch of sweetness from fresh veggies creates a tantalizing taste.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors of broccoli and red peppers make this dish as lovely to look at as it is to eat.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a fancy gathering; it’s sure to impress.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: A healthier fat that enhances the flavors and helps with cooking.
1¼ pounds skinless center-cut salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch pieces: Fresh salmon is ideal for tenderness. Feel free to substitute with another fish like trout or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
8 cloves garlic, thinly sliced, divided: Garlic adds a robust flavor that complements salmon beautifully. Fresh garlic is best for strong taste.
¾ teaspoon salt, divided: Balances flavors; kosher salt works well here. Adjust to taste if you’re watching sodium.
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper: For a mild kick; you can omit or reduce depending on your spice preference.
5 cups broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli provides nutrients and crunch; frozen broccoli can work in a pinch but may become mushy.
2 red bell peppers, seeded and chopped (2 cups): Adds sweetness and color; substitute with yellow or orange peppers for variety.
1 tablespoon water: Creates steam for cooking the vegetables without compromising their color and crunch.
1 teaspoon grated orange zest: Brightens the dish with citrus notes; make sure it’s fresh for the best flavor.
1½ tablespoons orange juice: Adds a bit of acidity; fresh juice is preferred over bottled for taste.
1 tablespoon reduced-sodium tamari: For a savory depth; can be replaced with soy sauce if you’re not avoiding gluten.
1 tablespoon thinly sliced scallions: A fresh garnish that brings a pop of color and mild onion flavor.

How to Make One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli

Heat the Oil: Start by heating 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large nonstick skillet with a lid over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle when the salmon goes in, which adds that beautiful sear.

Cook the Salmon: Once the oil is shimmering, add 1¼ pounds of salmon pieces along with 4 cloves of the sliced garlic in an even layer. Sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt and the crushed red pepper. Cook this uncovered, stirring occasionally until the salmon becomes opaque on all sides, roughly 4 to 5 minutes. Using a fish spatula or tongs, carefully transfer the salmon to a plate for now.

Add Vegetables: Without cleaning the skillet — we want all those yummy flavors left behind — toss in 5 cups of broccoli florets and the chopped 2 red bell peppers. Add 1 tablespoon of water and the remaining 4 cloves of sliced garlic along with ¼ teaspoon salt. Cover the skillet and let it cook, stirring occasionally until the veggies are tender-crisp, about 4 to 5 minutes.

Combine the Flavors: Once the vegetables are just right, stir in 1½ tablespoons of orange juice and 1 tablespoon of reduced-sodium tamari. Gently fold the cooked salmon back into the skillet. You’ll want to incorporate everything without breaking up the salmon too much, keeping those lovely pieces intact.

Serve it Up: Divide the mix among 4 shallow bowls, drizzling any remaining liquid from the pan over the top. Finish with 1 teaspoon of grated orange zest and 1 tablespoon of sliced scallions for that extra touch of flavor and color.

Storing & Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is an option; simply make sure everything is cool before transferring to a freezer-safe container, where it can last up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave at medium power for 1-2 minutes, until heated through, but be aware that broccoli may lose its crunch, so I recommend enjoying it fresh if possible.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the salmon by keeping an eye on it; once it turns opaque, it’s ready to come out.
Use high-quality fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
If you prefer more sauce, double the orange juice and tamari mixture for added zest.
Consider adding chopped carrots or snap peas for an even more colorful and nutritious mix.
Pre-cut your veggies for quicker preparation on busy nights.

One-Skillet Garlicky Salmon & Broccoli is not just a dinner recipe; it’s a go-to, healthful dish that brings together good company, delicious flavors, and a beautiful presentation. Enjoy experimenting with the ingredients and flavors, making it your own. Plus, sharing such a vibrant dish with loved ones makes every gathering feel a little extra special.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen salmon works well; just make sure it’s thawed completely before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.

What if I don’t have tamari?

No worries! If you don’t have tamari on hand, you can easily substitute it with regular soy sauce, or for a gluten-free option, look for coconut aminos as a great alternative.

How can I add more veggies?

You can definitely get creative! Carrots, zucchini, snap peas, or even green beans would add a nice touch. Just adjust cooking times slightly to ensure they remain crisp.

Can I make this ahead of time?

While the flavors are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the salmon and chop the veggies ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This makes for a quick assembly on busy nights!