Sheet Pan Salmon With Broccoli Rabe Recipe!

Introducing a healthy and delicious dish: sheet pan salmon with a delightful garlic ginger sesame marinade and nutritious broccoli rabe. The best part? It’s ready in just 20 minutes! The marinade infuses the salmon with a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess. Broccoli rabe, a turnip family member, is a favorite due to its abundant nutrients, even though it has a slight bitterness. Together, these ingredients create a flavorful and wholesome meal that is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients for Sheet Pan Salmon

• (6 ounces) Skin-on Salmon Fillets: The star of this dish, skin-on salmon, promises a rich, succulent flavor and crispy skin when roasted to perfection.
• Garlic and Minced Ginger: Infusing aromatic and savory notes, garlic and ginger elevate the overall taste profile, adding depth and warmth.
• Rice Vinegar: To a delicate tanginess, rice vinegar brings a hint of sweetness to balance the savory elements.
• Sesame Oil: Bestowing a nutty aroma and distinctive flavor, sesame oil enhances the overall richness of the dish.
• Coriander: Aromatic and citrusy, coriander adds a refreshing touch, complementing the richness of the salmon.
• Soy Sauce: The umami powerhouse, soy sauce, ties all the flavors together, providing depth, saltiness, and a touch of sweetness.
• Bunch of Broccoli Rabe: Providing a slightly bitter and earthy flavor, broccoli rabe adds a unique element to the dish, balancing the richness of the salmon.
• Chili Flakes: Introducing a gentle heat, chili flakes elevate the dish with a subtle spiciness.
• Salt and Pepper: Seasoning the broccoli rabe to perfection, salt and pepper add the final touches to this vibrant and flavorful side.

How do you remove the bitterness from Broccoli Rabe?

To remove the bitterness from broccoli rabe, traditionally known as rapini, it is often chopped into smaller pieces and boiled in salted water with a touch of olive oil. Lemon juice is added to bring some acidity to balance the flavors and is commonly enjoyed with pita bread. However, if you prefer to retain the nutrients, an alternative method is to roast the broccoli rabe. In this sheet pan dinner recipe, the baked salmon and roasted broccoli rabe create a harmonious and healthy combination, resulting in a flavorful dish. The baking process keeps the salmon tender and flaky, eliminating any dryness or oiliness. It’s an elegant recipe that showcases the best of both ingredients.

Wild vs. Farm-Raised and Fresh vs. Frozen

When selecting salmon for this sheet pan dish, the difference between wild-caught and farm-raised salmon is worth considering. Wild salmon is known to have a more robust flavor, firmer texture, and vibrant color due to its natural diet and active lifestyle in the wild. It is also typically higher in omega-3 fatty acids, which benefit heart health. On the other hand, farm-raised salmon is raised in controlled environments and fed a formulated diet. While it may be more readily available and often less expensive, it may have a milder flavor and softer texture.

When purchasing salmon, you can choose between fresh and frozen varieties. Fresh salmon is ideal if you plan to cook it immediately, as it offers the advantage of being readily available and showcasing the best texture and flavor. However, if fresh salmon is not easily accessible, don’t hesitate to opt for frozen salmon. High-quality frozen salmon is often flash-frozen shortly after being caught, preserving its freshness and nutritional value. Just make sure to properly thaw frozen salmon before marinating and cooking it to ensure even cooking and optimal taste.

Serving Suggestion Sheet Pan Salmon Broccoli

Enhance your sheet pan salmon and broccoli rabe dish with flavorful Lemon Greek Rice or Farmer’s Rice. The citrusy notes of the lemon complement the flavors of the salmon and broccoli rabe perfectly. Alternatively, you can opt for Farmers Rice, a delicious and hearty rice dish that pairs well with the flavors of the salmon. The choice between Lemon Greek Rice and Farmers Rice depends on your preference for a zesty or more earthy side dish.

For a refreshing salad option, consider serving the dish with a Greek Salad. The crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese tossed in a tangy dressing will add flavor to complement the sheet pan salmon and roasted broccoli rabe. Alternatively, a Kale Apple Salad can provide a lighter side with nutrient-packed kale, crunchy apples, and a zesty vinaigrette.