Name: Build-Your-Own Protein Dinner: Lemon-Garlic Salmon or Herb-Free Chicken with Mediterranean Pasta & Veggies
Prep time: 35 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 7 servings
Ingredients: 7 x 120g salmon fillets (for pescatarian option); 7 x 120g chicken breast fillets (for non-seafood option); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 400g whole wheat penne pasta; 400g broccolini, trimmed; 250g cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 red onion, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp capers (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Build-Your-Own Protein Dinner: Lemon-Garlic Salmon or Herb-Free Chicken with Mediterranean Pasta & Veggies

miradugm

Remixed from Build-Your-Own Protein Dinner: Lemon-Garlic Salmon or Paprika Chicken with Mediterranean Pasta & Veggies by miradugm()

This customizable, high-protein dinner lets guests choose between juicy lemon-garlic salmon fillets or tender chicken breasts without the paprika and oregano, highlighting the fresh citrus and garlic flavors. Paired with whole wheat pasta tossed with broccolini, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and capers, this Mediterranean-inspired meal is vibrant and satisfying. The build-your-own plating style keeps the experience interactive and fun, all while keeping prep simple and letting the natural flavors shine through. A perfect crowd-pleaser for a relaxed dinner gathering!

Ingredients

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line two baking trays with parchment paper.
Pat salmon and chicken fillets dry. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Rub half the marinade over the salmon fillets and the other half over the chicken breasts. Arrange each protein on its own tray.
Bake salmon for 12-15 minutes and chicken for 18-20 minutes, or until each is cooked through and golden.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions. In the last 2 minutes, add broccolini to the pasta water. Drain everything together.
In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta and broccolini with cherry tomatoes, red onion, capers (if using), and a drizzle of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
To serve, let guests choose their protein and plate alongside the pasta-veggie mix. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra lemon wedges if desired.