Why You’ll Love This Baked Salmon Recipe
When you’re short on time but still want something nourishing, baked salmon with sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli hits the mark. It’s a no-fuss, healthy dinner that looks impressive on the plate but takes very little effort to pull together. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the family, this recipe keeps things simple without cutting corners on taste or nutrition.
Here’s why it’s one of my go-to weekday meals:
Quick and easy: No complex prep. You’ll have everything on the table in under 45 minutes.
Balanced and nutritious: Salmon for protein and Omega-3s, sweet potatoes for fibre and complex carbs, and broccoli for a hit of vitamins.
Naturally gluten- and dairy-free: Perfect if you’re cooking for dietary needs.
Minimal washing up: Roast everything on one tray and steam the veg in minutes.
Meal prep friendly: This recipe stores and reheats well, so it’s great for lunches or batch cooking.
Whether you’re eating clean, cutting carbs, or just trying to add more whole foods into your meals, this combination ticks all the right boxes.
What Is Baked Salmon with Sweet Potatoes and Steamed Broccoli?
Baked salmon with sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli is a simple, satisfying dish made from three core components: flaky oven-baked salmon fillets, roasted sweet potatoes, and freshly steamed broccoli florets. It’s the kind of meal that feels comforting, wholesome, and refreshingly clean—all without being bland or boring.
The dish brings together different textures and flavours in one balanced plate:
The salmon is tender, juicy, and rich in healthy fats.
The sweet potatoes offer a naturally sweet, earthy flavour and a crisp roasted edge.
The steamed broccoli provides freshness, crunch, and that vibrant pop of green.
You’ll often see variations of this dish recommended in Mediterranean, low-carb, and high-protein diets, and for good reason. It’s easy to personalise, packed with micronutrients, and doesn’t rely on processed ingredients. Whether you’re aiming to eat healthier, cut back on red meat, or just love the idea of a vibrant, filling plate of food—this recipe delivers.
And the best part? It’s a classic case of “set it and forget it.” Pop the salmon and sweet potatoes in the oven, steam the broccoli while they cook, and you’re good to go.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make baked salmon with sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli, you’ll need just a few fresh, everyday ingredients. Most of them are probably already in your kitchen.
🐟 For the Baked Salmon
2 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, around 150–180g each)
1 tablespoon olive oil (or melted butter for richness)
1 garlic clove, finely chopped or crushed
½ lemon, sliced into rounds or wedges
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh herbs – dill, parsley or thyme (optional, but adds depth)
🍠 For the Roasted Sweet Potatoes
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 2–3cm cubes
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky kick)
Sea salt, to taste
🥦 For the Steamed Broccoli
1 medium head of broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
Water (for steaming)
Optional: A squeeze of lemon juice, pinch of sea salt, or a drizzle of olive oil to finish
Quick Tip: If you're feeding more than two people, simply double the quantities. This recipe scales up effortlessly.
These ingredients come together to create a complete, colourful plate that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
Ingredient Substitutions and Add-Ons
One of the best things about baked salmon with sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli is how versatile it is. You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit what you have on hand, your dietary needs, or just your personal taste.
🐟 Salmon Substitutes
Trout or sea bass – Both have similar textures and work beautifully baked.
Cod or haddock – Milder in flavour and slightly leaner, but still satisfying.
Tofu or halloumi – Great plant-based or vegetarian alternatives. Bake or pan-fry with similar seasoning.
🍠 Sweet Potato Alternatives
Butternut squash – Slightly nuttier, with a similar sweetness and roasting time.
Baby potatoes – Cut in half or quarters. Roast a little longer for crisp edges.
Carrots or parsnips – For an earthier flavour and vibrant colour combo.
🥦 Broccoli Swaps
Tenderstem broccoli – Steams quicker and has a more delicate texture.
Green beans or asparagus – Quick to steam and pair nicely with salmon.
Spinach or kale – Sauté in a pan with garlic instead of steaming.
💡 Add-On Ideas to Level It Up
Top salmon with a garlic lemon butter sauce or herby yoghurt dressing.
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or crushed nuts over the broccoli for texture.
Serve with a side of quinoa or couscous if you need something more filling.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze or tahini sauce for a flavour twist.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment
You don’t need a fancy kitchen to make this baked salmon with sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli—just a few everyday tools will do the job.
✅ Essentials
Baking tray – For roasting the salmon and sweet potatoes. Line it with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup.
Medium saucepan or steamer – To steam the broccoli to just the right tenderness.
Sharp knife and chopping board – For prepping your veg and trimming the salmon if needed.
Mixing bowl – To toss the sweet potatoes in oil and seasoning.
Tongs or spatula – For turning vegetables or plating up the salmon without it breaking apart.
👍 Optional (but helpful)
Steamer basket or insert – If you prefer steaming over boiling.
Zester or grater – For adding a burst of lemon zest to your salmon.
Kitchen thermometer – If you want to ensure your salmon is cooked perfectly (aim for 63°C / 145°F internally)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s exactly how to make this simple and satisfying baked salmon with sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli at home. Follow these steps and you’ll have dinner sorted in under 45 minutes.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F / Gas Mark 6.
Line a baking tray with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into small cubes (around 2–3cm).
In a bowl, toss with olive oil, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt.
Spread them out on the baking tray in a single layer.
They take a bit longer than the salmon, so get these in first.
Step 3: Roast the Sweet Potatoes (10 Minutes First)
Roast the sweet potatoes for 10 minutes on their own.
This gives them a head start so everything finishes cooking at the same time.
Step 4: Season and Add the Salmon
While the sweet potatoes are roasting:
Pat the salmon fillets dry with kitchen paper.
Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and rub with crushed garlic.
Add a slice of lemon on top of each fillet.
After 10 minutes, take the tray out and add the salmon fillets beside the potatoes.
Return everything to the oven and roast for 15–18 minutes, or until:
The salmon flakes easily with a fork.
The sweet potatoes are soft in the middle and lightly crisp on the outside.
Step 5: Steam the Broccoli
While the salmon and potatoes finish cooking:
Bring an inch of water to a boil in a saucepan.
Add broccoli florets to a steamer basket or directly into the pan.
Cover and steam for 4–5 minutes until bright green and just tender.
Drain and season with a pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon, if you like.
Step 6: Plate and Serve
Serve the roasted salmon with a portion of sweet potatoes and a pile of steamed broccoli.
Optional: Add a final drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or some lemon zest to finish.
🕒 Total Time:
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 30 minutes
Ready in: 40 minutes
Storage and Leftovers
One of the great things about baked salmon with sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli is that it stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or easy next-day lunches.
🥡 How to Store Leftovers
Cool completely before storing to prevent condensation (which can make food soggy).
Transfer each component (salmon, potatoes, broccoli) to an airtight container.
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
💡 Tip: Keep the broccoli separate if possible to avoid over-steaming when reheating.
🔥 How to Reheat
Microwave: Reheat on medium for 1–2 minutes, checking halfway. Add a splash of water to the broccoli to keep it moist.
Oven: Place on a tray and cover with foil. Bake at 180°C for 10–12 minutes until warmed through.
Air fryer: Ideal for reheating sweet potatoes — they crisp right back up!
❄️ Can You Freeze It?
Salmon: Yes — freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Sweet potatoes: Freeze well, though texture softens slightly.
Broccoli: Best eaten fresh, as freezing can make it mushy.
⚠️ Never reheat cooked salmon more than once to avoid food safety risks.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
This baked salmon with sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli isn’t just easy and delicious — it’s also incredibly nutritious. Below is an approximate nutrition profile for one serving (based on two servings total):
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
|
Calories |
460 kcal |
|
Protein |
35g |
|
Fat |
22g |
|
– Saturated Fat |
4g |
|
Carbohydrates |
28g |
|
– Sugars |
7g |
|
Fibre |
6g |
|
Omega-3s |
High (from salmon) |
|
Sodium |
180mg |
|
Vitamin C |
90% RDI (from broccoli) |
|
Vitamin A |
120% RDI (from sweet potatoes) |
🧠 Did You Know?
Salmon is one of the best sources of Omega-3 fatty acids — essential for brain health, heart function, and reducing inflammation.
This meal is naturally:
High-protein
Rich in healthy fats
Gluten-free
Packed with fibre and micronutrients
FAQs About Baked Salmon with Sweet Potatoes and Steamed Broccoli
Got questions? You’re not alone! Here are the most common queries people have about this easy, healthy dinner.
Yes, with a little timing tweak.
Start roasting the sweet potatoes first for about 10 minutes, then add the salmon to the same tray. This ensures both cook perfectly without over- or undercooking.
200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F is ideal.
It cooks the salmon through while keeping it moist. A kitchen thermometer should read 63°C (145°F) in the thickest part when done.
It should:
Turn opaque throughout
Flake easily with a fork
Feel slightly firm but not dry
🎯 Tip: If you’re unsure, use a thermometer. It’s the easiest way to avoid overcooking.
Yes, absolutely.
This dish is great for meal prep. Just store the components separately in airtight containers and reheat gently.
No worries — just:
Boil the broccoli for 3–4 minutes in a small amount of water, or
Microwave it in a covered bowl with a splash of water for 2–3 minutes.
Not quite.
Sweet potatoes are higher in carbs, so this isn’t ideal for strict keto diets. However, you can swap the sweet potatoes for cauliflower mash or roasted courgettes for a lower-carb version.
Absolutely!
Try these:
Soy, honey & garlic glaze for a sweet-savory twist
Chilli flakes and lime for a spicy kick
Harissa or miso paste for bold, global flavours
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked salmon with sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli recipe ticks every box — it’s quick, healthy, flavour-packed, and totally customisable. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a nutritious meal prep idea, or a dish to impress guests, this one does it all.
You’re getting:
Heart-healthy omega-3s from the salmon
Complex carbs and fibre from sweet potatoes
A vitamin-rich veggie boost from steamed broccoli
A stress-free, one-tray option you can cook in under 45 minutes
🌟 Healthy doesn’t have to mean boring. This is a satisfying, real food dinner that works for every kind of eater.
Baked Salmon with Sweet Potatoes and Steamed Broccoli
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F.
- Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Roast for 10 minutes.
- Season salmon with 1 tbsp olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon. Place on tray.
- Add salmon to tray and roast for 15–18 minutes, until opaque and flakes easily.
- Steam broccoli for 4–5 minutes until vibrant and tender.
- Serve salmon, sweet potatoes, and broccoli with a drizzle of olive oil or lemon zest.
