Grilled Salmon with Steamed Broccoli and Sweet Potato

Lauren McDonagh-Pereira Photography

June 5, 2024

Grilled salmon with steamed broccoli and sweet potato is a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. This dish is packed with essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon, vitamins and fiber from the broccoli, and the complex carbohydrates from the sweet potato. Whether you’re looking to maintain a balanced diet or simply enjoy a tasty dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients:

For the Grilled Salmon:

4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon (sliced for garnish and juice)

Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)

For the Steamed Broccoli:

1 large head of broccoli (cut into florets)
Salt to taste
Lemon wedges for serving

For the Sweet Potato:

2 large sweet potatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: a sprinkle of cinnamon or paprika

Instructions:

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then cut them into 1-inch cubes.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper (and optional cinnamon or paprika).
- Spread the sweet potato cubes evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly crispy on the edges, stirring halfway through.
Prepare the Broccoli:
- While the sweet potatoes are roasting, prepare the broccoli.
- Fill a large pot with about 1 inch of water and place a steamer basket inside. Bring the water to a boil.
- Add the broccoli florets to the steamer basket, cover, and steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green.
- Season with a pinch of salt and set aside.
Prepare the Salmon:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the salmon fillets with the olive oil mixture.
- Place the salmon fillets on the grill, skin side down if applicable.
- Grill for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the fillets.
Serve:
- Arrange the grilled salmon fillets on plates.
- Add a side of steamed broccoli and roasted sweet potato cubes to each plate.
- Garnish the salmon with fresh dill or parsley and lemon slices if desired.
- Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: Approximately 450-500 calories
Protein: 35 grams
Fat: 20 grams

Carbohydrates: 35 grams
Fiber: 8 grams
Sugars: 8 grams

Benefits of This Meal

This grilled salmon meal is a nutritional powerhouse. Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Broccoli provides a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, while sweet potatoes are rich in fiber and complex carbohydrates that provide lasting energy.

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Salmon

Choose Fresh Salmon: Opt for fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the salmon while grilling to avoid overcooking, which can make the fish dry.

Use a Meat Thermometer: For precision, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C).

Variations

Herbs and Spices: Customize the seasoning for the salmon with your favorite herbs and spices, such as dill, rosemary, or smoked paprika.
Vegetable Sides: Feel free to swap the broccoli for other steamed vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts.

Sweet Potato Preparation: Try mashing the roasted sweet potatoes for a different texture and flavor experience.

This grilled salmon with steamed broccoli and sweet potato recipe is perfect for a nutritious dinner that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. Enjoy this healthy meal and feel good about the wholesome ingredients you’re nourishing your body with.