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Budget-Friendly Meal-Prep Grilled Salmon with Broccoli and Lemon Butter

Grilled Salmon with Broccoli and Lemon Butter

Quick and flavorful grilled salmon paired with charred broccoli and a rich lemon butter sauce, finished with fresh dill.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 4 salmon fillets about 150g each, skin on or off
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large head of broccoli about 300g, cut into florets
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lemon juiced and zested
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • Optional: pinch of chilli flakes for warmth

Method
 

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. You want it hot enough that a drop of water sizzles on contact. The surface should shimmer slightly but not smoke—if it smokes, lower the heat. I use a cast-iron grill pan for even heat distribution.
  2. Prepare the broccoli. Toss the florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a grind of black pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking tray or directly on the grill if using a grill pan. You'll hear a gentle sizzle as they hit the heat. Grill for 5-6 minutes, turning once, until the edges char and the stems turn bright green. The florets should be tender when pierced with a fork but still have a slight bite.
  3. Season the salmon. Pat each fillet dry with kitchen paper—this is crucial for a good sear. Brush both sides with the remaining olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. The surface should feel tacky, not wet.
  4. Grill the salmon. Place the fillets skin-side down (if using skin) onto the hot grill. You'll hear an immediate, satisfying hiss. Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving them—this allows a golden crust to form. When the edges turn opaque and the flesh lifts easily from the grill marks, flip carefully using tongs. The cooked side should be a deep golden-brown with defined grill lines. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the centre is just firm to the touch and flakes easily with a fork. An internal temperature of 52°C (125°F) gives a moist, medium finish.
  5. Make the lemon butter. While the salmon rests, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant—you'll smell a nutty, buttery aroma. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, then remove from heat. The sauce should be glossy, pale yellow, and slightly thickened.
  6. Combine and serve. Arrange the grilled broccoli on a platter, top with the salmon fillets, and drizzle the lemon butter over everything. Sprinkle with fresh dill and chilli flakes if using. The butter will pool around the broccoli, creating a silky coating. Serve immediately for dinner, or let it cool completely for meal prep.

Notes

For best results, pat salmon dry before seasoning and do not move the fillets while grilling to achieve a golden crust. The lemon butter can be made ahead and gently reheated.