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Easy Sheet Pan Roasted Greek Salmon and Broccoli: A Healthy & Flavorful Weeknight Dinner

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Easy Sheet Pan Roasted Greek Salmon and Broccoli: A Healthy & Flavorful Weeknight Dinner

Looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful weeknight dinner? Look no further! This **Easy Sheet Pan Roasted Greek Salmon and Broccoli** recipe is a game-changer. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, requires minimal cleanup, and is packed with nutrients and delicious Mediterranean flavors. Salmon, rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, pairs perfectly with the vibrant flavors of lemon, garlic, oregano, and salty feta cheese, while broccoli provides a healthy dose of vitamins and fiber. This is a meal you can feel good about eating and serving to your family.

## Why You’ll Love This Sheet Pan Salmon and Broccoli

* **Quick and Easy:** From prep to plate, this recipe takes less than 30 minutes.
* **Minimal Cleanup:** Everything cooks on a single sheet pan, minimizing dishes.
* **Healthy and Nutritious:** Salmon is a great source of protein and Omega-3s, while broccoli is packed with vitamins and fiber.
* **Flavorful and Delicious:** The Greek-inspired flavors are bright, fresh, and incredibly satisfying.
* **Versatile:** Easily customizable with different vegetables or seasonings.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you get started, gather these simple ingredients:

* **Salmon Fillets:** About 1.5 pounds, skin on or off (your preference). Look for sustainably sourced salmon whenever possible. Thicker fillets will take a little longer to cook.
* **Broccoli Florets:** About 4 cups, cut into bite-sized pieces. You can also use broccolini.
* **Olive Oil:** Extra virgin olive oil is best for both flavor and health benefits.
* **Lemon:** You’ll need both the zest and juice of one lemon.
* **Garlic:** 2-3 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic is key for the best flavor.
* **Dried Oregano:** A classic Greek herb that adds warmth and earthiness.
* **Dried Thyme:** Another complementary herb that enhances the savory flavors.
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** For a touch of heat (optional).
* **Feta Cheese:** Crumbled feta adds a salty and tangy finish. Use a block of feta and crumble it yourself for the best flavor.
* **Salt and Black Pepper:** To taste.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Large Sheet Pan:** A standard 13×18 inch sheet pan works perfectly.
* **Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil:** For easy cleanup. Parchment paper is preferred.
* **Mixing Bowl:** For tossing the broccoli with the marinade.
* **Zester and Juicer:** For the lemon.
* **Garlic Press or Knife:** For mincing the garlic.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious sheet pan salmon and broccoli:

**Step 1: Preheat and Prep**

* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

**Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli**

* In a large mixing bowl, toss the broccoli florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the zest of half a lemon, 1 minced garlic clove, ½ teaspoon of dried oregano, ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure the broccoli is evenly coated.

**Step 3: Arrange the Broccoli on the Sheet Pan**

* Spread the broccoli florets in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will cause the broccoli to steam instead of roast. If necessary, use two sheet pans.

**Step 4: Prepare the Salmon**

* Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the salmon to brown nicely in the oven.
* In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, the juice of half a lemon, 1-2 minced garlic cloves (depending on your preference), ½ teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of dried thyme, salt, and pepper. This is your simple Greek marinade.
* Place the salmon fillets on the sheet pan, leaving some space between them and the broccoli. Drizzle the marinade evenly over the salmon fillets. You can also brush the marinade on for more even distribution.

**Step 5: Roast the Salmon and Broccoli**

* Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the broccoli is tender-crisp. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your salmon fillets. The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C).
* To check for doneness, insert a fork into the thickest part of the salmon. The fish should flake easily.

**Step 6: Add the Feta and Serve**

* Remove the sheet pan from the oven and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salmon and broccoli.
* Serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving adds extra brightness.

## Tips for Perfect Sheet Pan Salmon and Broccoli

* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** Overcrowding will cause the vegetables to steam instead of roast, resulting in soggy broccoli. Use two sheet pans if necessary.
* **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs will make a big difference in the flavor of this dish.
* **Pat the Salmon Dry:** Patting the salmon dry before adding the marinade will help it to brown nicely in the oven.
* **Adjust Cooking Time:** The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets and the power of your oven. Keep an eye on the salmon and broccoli and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **Broil for Extra Color:** For extra color and crispness, broil the salmon and broccoli for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking time, watching carefully to prevent burning.
* **Add Other Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the sheet pan, such as bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
* **Make it Spicy:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a touch of heat.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or dill, to customize the flavor.

## Serving Suggestions

This sheet pan salmon and broccoli is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with:

* **Quinoa or Rice:** For a heartier meal.
* **Couscous:** A light and fluffy side dish.
* **Greek Salad:** A refreshing and flavorful accompaniment.
* **Tzatziki Sauce:** For dipping or drizzling.
* **Pita Bread:** For scooping up the delicious salmon and broccoli.

## Variations

* **Lemon Herb Salmon and Asparagus:** Replace the broccoli with asparagus and use a lemon-herb marinade.
* **Honey Garlic Salmon and Brussels Sprouts:** Replace the Greek marinade with a honey garlic glaze and the broccoli with Brussels sprouts.
* **Teriyaki Salmon and Green Beans:** Use a teriyaki marinade and pair the salmon with green beans.
* **Spicy Salmon and Sweet Potatoes:** Add some spice to the marinade and roast the salmon with sweet potato chunks.
* **Mediterranean Sheet Pan Dinner:** Add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini and red onion for a complete Mediterranean meal.

## Storage and Reheating

* **Storage:** Store leftover salmon and broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the salmon may become slightly dry.

## Make-Ahead Tips

* You can chop the broccoli florets and mince the garlic ahead of time. Store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator.
* You can also prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just whisk it together before using.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

* **Can I use frozen broccoli?**
While fresh broccoli is preferred, you can use frozen broccoli florets in a pinch. Thaw them completely and pat them dry before tossing them with the marinade.
* **Can I use frozen salmon?**
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry before adding the marinade.
* **How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?**
The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C). You can also check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the salmon. The fish should flake easily.
* **Can I make this recipe on the grill?**
Yes, you can grill the salmon and broccoli. Place the broccoli in a grill basket or on a sheet of aluminum foil. Grill the salmon directly on the grill grates. The cooking time will be similar to the oven method.
* **Can I add other vegetables?**
Yes, feel free to add other vegetables to the sheet pan, such as bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

## Easy Sheet Pan Roasted Greek Salmon and Broccoli Recipe

This recipe is perfect for a quick, healthy, and delicious weeknight meal. Enjoy!

**Yields:** 4 servings
**Prep time:** 10 minutes
**Cook time:** 15 minutes

### Ingredients:

* 1.5 pounds salmon fillets, skin on or off
* 4 cups broccoli florets
* 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
* 1 lemon, zested and juiced
* 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano, divided
* ½ teaspoon dried thyme
* ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste

### Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the broccoli florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the zest of half a lemon, 1 minced garlic clove, ½ teaspoon of dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the broccoli florets in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan.
4. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, the juice of half a lemon, 1-2 minced garlic cloves, ½ teaspoon of dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Place the salmon fillets on the sheet pan, leaving some space between them and the broccoli. Drizzle the marinade evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the broccoli is tender-crisp. The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C).
7. Remove the sheet pan from the oven and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salmon and broccoli.
8. Serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy sheet pan salmon and broccoli!

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