Garlic Butter Salmon with Veggies – One-Pan Dinner

Garlic Butter Salmon is the star of this Tuscan-inspired, one-skillet dinner, where rich garlic butter mingles with lemon, briny capers, spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes. The result? A vibrant, flavor-packed dish that feels both comforting and elegant.

The tender, flaky salmon soaks up every drop of the luscious sauce, making each bite a true delight. And the best part? This stunning meal comes together in under 30 minutes — all in one pan. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy date night in.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Salmon

• Salmon Filets (Preferably with Skin): Salmon is the star of this dish, providing a rich, buttery flavor and flaky texture. It’s an excellent source of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein, making it a nutritious choice.
• Dry Dill, Red Pepper Flakes, and Smoked Paprika: These spices add depth and complexity to the dish. Dry dill imparts a subtle herbaceous note, while red pepper flakes provide a touch of heat. Smoked paprika lends a smoky and mildly sweet flavor, elevating the overall taste.
• High-Quality Olive Oil (Divided): Olive oil enhances the salmon’s flavor and helps achieve crispy skin when searing. It’s a source of healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, promoting heart health.
• Chopped Onion and Minced Garlic: Onions and garlic provide aromatic depth and savory undertones to the recipe. They serve as the flavorful base for the sauce.
• Roma Tomatoes: Tomatoes contribute natural sweetness and acidity to balance the dish’s flavors. They also provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a vibrant green color and a mild earthy taste. It wilts down during cooking, incorporating a dose of leafy greens.
• Fresh Basil Leaves (Chopped): Basil infuses the dish with its distinctive aroma and a hint of sweetness. It pairs wonderfully with tomatoes and elevates the overall freshness.
• Capers: Capers contribute a briny, tangy flavor, offering a delightful contrast to the rich salmon and buttery sauce.
• Dry White Wine: White wine imparts acidity and depth to the sauce, enhancing the overall complexity of flavors. It also complements the lemon and tomatoes.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Salmon

• Use wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and omega-3 boost—great for a Mediterranean-style meal.

• Keep pieces uniform in size for even cooking, and leave the skin on for added flavor and easier flipping.

• Preheat your skillet until hot before adding the salmon. A golden edge and easy release mean it’s time to flip.

• Check for doneness by pressing the thickest part with a fork—the salmon should flake easily and turn opaque.

• Skip the cream—this recipe uses white wine and broth for a light, rich base.

• Add greens like fresh spinach, or swap in kale or Swiss chard for a heartier twist.

Pairing Sides with Garlic Butter Salmon

This bold, buttery salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of fresh and vibrant side dishes.

For a Mediterranean touch, serve it alongside a Traditional Greek Salad with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy feta. Craving something with a zesty twist? A bowl of Fattoush — the beloved Middle Eastern bread salad — brings bright flavor and irresistible crunch.

Want to stay in the Italian lane? Try a Tomato Panzanella Salad, where ripe tomatoes and toasted croutons soak up every drop of olive oil and vinegar. For something warm and hearty, a comforting bowl of Warm Lentil Soup adds earthy depth and a healthy dose of protein.

And to complete the plate? Tunisian Couscous — fluffy, lightly spiced, and perfect for soaking up all that garlic butter sauce.