What makes a perfect weeknight dinner? A simple yet flavorful combination of salmon, steamed broccoli and a side of homemade rice, all coming together in a quick and easy meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Save this idea for a delicious homemade dinner solution.

salmon, broccoli and rice on two white plates with red lettering that says salmon broccoli rice cummer plate

Introduction

This delectable dish of salmon, broccoli, and rice, beautifully presented on two white plates with the vibrant red lettering that reads “salmon broccoli rice cummer plate,” is not just a feast for the eyes but also a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for a dish that looks and tastes like it was crafted in a professional kitchen. By combining everyday ingredients in a creative way, you can achieve a culinary masterpiece that’s perfect for both special occasions and casual weeknight dinners.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of salmon, broccoli, and rice offers a well-rounded flavor profile that’s both savory and slightly sweet, made with ingredients that are readily available in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive presentation, this dish is surprisingly straightforward to prepare, with each component requiring minimal cooking time and effort.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The simplicity of the recipe belies the sophistication of the final product, making it an ideal choice for those looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients used in this recipe include fresh salmon fillets, broccoli florets, uncooked white or brown rice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and any desired additional seasonings such as lemon juice or garlic powder. For practical substitutions, you can use frozen broccoli if fresh is not available, and choose between white and brown rice based on your dietary preferences. Salmon can be substituted with other fish like cod or tilapia, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by prepping your ingredients. Rinse the salmon fillets and pat them dry with a paper towel. Cut the broccoli into florets and rinse them under cold water. Measure out the appropriate amount of rice and prepare it according to the package instructions, usually a 2:1 ratio of water to rice.
2. Step 2: Cook the rice and broccoli. For the rice, bring the water to a boil, add the rice, cover, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. For the broccoli, you can steam it in a steamer basket over boiling water for 3-5 minutes until it reaches your desired level of tenderness, or sauté it in a pan with a bit of olive oil for a few minutes until it’s slightly softened but still crisp.
3. Step 3: Prepare the salmon. Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you like. Heat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil, and once the oil is hot, add the salmon fillets. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Step 4: Final touches and plating. Once all the components are ready, it’s time to plate. Divide the cooked rice onto two plates, add a portion of steamed or sautéed broccoli on top of the rice, and place a cooked salmon fillet on each plate. You can drizzle with additional olive oil, squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the top, or sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra flavor and color.

Handy Tips

• For an extra crispy skin on the salmon, make sure the skin is dry before cooking and don’t flip the fillets too many times. If your salmon fillets don’t have skin, you can still achieve a nice crust by cooking them in a hot skillet with a small amount of oil.
• Don’t overcook the broccoli. It should retain some crunch to provide a nice textural contrast to the soft rice and fish.
• Consider using leftover rice or cooking it ahead of time to make the preparation process even quicker.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial, especially when cooking the salmon. The ideal temperature for cooking salmon is medium-high heat, around 400°F to 450°F (200°C to 230°C), to achieve a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside moist and flaky. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the salmon; it should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. Timing is also important: cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes primarily from the broccoli. To achieve the perfect level of crunch, don’t overcook the broccoli. If steaming, check on it after 3 minutes, and if sautéing, stir frequently to prevent burning. You’re aiming for a tender but still crisp texture that provides a satisfying contrast to the softness of the rice and salmon.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Marinate the salmon in your favorite seasonings mixed with olive oil for at least 30 minutes before cooking to enhance the flavor.
• Use a cast-iron skillet for cooking the salmon, as it retains heat well and can achieve a nice crust on the fish.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the salmon or broccoli. Cook in batches if necessary, to ensure everything has enough room to cook evenly.

Storage Tips

• Leftover storage: Cooked salmon, broccoli, and rice can be stored in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, taking care not to overheat.
• Reheating tips: For the salmon, it’s best to reheat it in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) covered in foil to prevent drying out. For the rice and broccoli, a quick reheat in the microwave or a gentle warm-up in a pan on the stovetop is sufficient.
• Shelf life: Cooked components are best consumed within 2 days, but they can be frozen for longer storage. Frozen cooked salmon and rice can be stored for up to 3 months, and frozen broccoli for up to 8 months.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While this dish is primarily intended for immediate consumption, components like cooked rice or roasted broccoli can be packaged in decorative jars or containers as part of a gift basket, especially when paired with other homemade goodies like jams, sauces, or baked goods. Consider adding a ribbon around the jar and including a recipe card for a personal touch.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding some Asian-inspired flavors with soy sauce and ginger, or go for a Mediterranean twist with lemon, garlic, and oregano.
• Creative toppings: Add some diced onions, chopped fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of grated cheese to the salmon or rice for extra flavor.
• Ingredient swaps: Substitute the salmon with another fish or even shrimp for a different protein, or try using cauliflower instead of broccoli for a low-carb option.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the salmon is too dry, it may have been overcooked. Try cooking it for less time or at a lower heat next time. If the rice is mushy, it was probably overcooked or had too much water.
• Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find fresh broccoli, frozen will work as a substitute. For the salmon, other fish like tilapia or cod can be used, though cooking times may vary.
• Over/undercooking signs: For salmon, look for flakiness with a fork and an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). For broccoli, check for tenderness but crunchiness, and for rice, ensure it’s tender and the water is fully absorbed.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, cooked components can be frozen. Salmon and rice can be stored for up to 3 months, and broccoli for up to 8 months.
• Is it gluten-free? This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
• Can I double the recipe? Absolutely, all components can be easily doubled or even tripled if you’re serving a larger crowd. Just adjust cooking times slightly for larger quantities of fish or broccoli.

Conclusion

This recipe for salmon, broccoli, and rice is a versatile and delicious meal that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Its simplicity and the use of everyday ingredients make it accessible to cooks of all levels, while its presentation and flavor profile are sophisticated enough to impress at any dinner party. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and ingredients to make the dish your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Happy cooking, and enjoy the delightful combination of salmon, broccoli, and rice on your very own “salmon broccoli rice cummer plate”!