Lemon Garlic Salmon with Lentils & Roasted Broccoli

Bright, flavorful, and packed with nourishing ingredients, this Lemon Garlic Salmon with Lentils & Roasted Broccoli is a satisfying meal that makes iron-rich eating delicious. Tender salmon is paired with hearty lentils and roasted broccoli, then finished with fresh lemon and garlic for a simple dinner that feels both wholesome and special.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 5–6 oz each)
• 1 cup dry green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 lemons
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Cook the lentils: Add the rinsed lentils and broth to a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20–25 minutes, or until tender. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.
2. Prepare the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. Season the broccoli: Place the broccoli florets on a baking sheet. Toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, half of the minced garlic, a little salt and black pepper. Roast for about 15–20 minutes, until tender and lightly browned.
4. Season the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry. Rub them with the remaining olive oil and garlic, paprika, thyme, salt and black pepper. Squeeze the juice of 1 lemon over the salmon.
5. Cook the salmon: Place the salmon on a lined baking sheet and bake for approximately 12–15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork and reaches 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part.
6. Finish the lentils: Stir the chopped parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice into the warm lentils. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. Serve: Spoon the lentils onto each plate and top with the salmon. Add the roasted broccoli alongside and garnish with fresh parsley and wedges from the remaining lemon.

Iron Tip

Lentils are a great source of plant-based iron, while broccoli provides vitamin C, which helps your body absorb that iron more efficiently. The fresh lemon adds even more vitamin C, making this combination both delicious and smart for supporting iron intake.

Why you’ll Love This Recipe

• Iron-smart combination: Lentils provide plant-based iron, while lemon and broccoli add vitamin C to support absorption.
• Protein-packed: Salmon makes this meal hearty and satisfying.
• Fresh and flavorful: Garlic, lemon, herbs, and roasted broccoli keep every bite bright and delicious.
• Simple enough for weeknights: It looks impressive without being complicated.
• Balanced in one plate: You get protein, vegetables, fiber, and wholesome carbs all together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salmon warm over a generous spoonful of lemon-herb lentils with roasted broccoli on the side. Add a fresh lemon wedge for an extra burst of brightness. For an even more colorful plate, pair it with a simple tomato and cucumber salad or a handful of fresh greens.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover salmon, lentils, and broccoli in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the lentils and broccoli gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. For the salmon, reheat gently at a low temperature just until warmed through to help keep it moist and tender. Add a fresh squeeze of lemon before serving to brighten the flavors again.