There’s something about the vibrant spice of harissa mingling with tender salmon, crispy chickpeas, and fresh broccolini that makes this sheet pan dinner an absolute game-changer. One hectic evening, I threw everything onto a single tray and slid it into the oven—no fuss, no mess, just pure flavor. The smoky heat of the harissa coats the fish perfectly, while the chickpeas add a satisfying crunch and the broccolini brings a fresh, green bite. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or want to impress guests without standing over the stove, this dish is the kind of recipe that feels homemade yet effortlessly gourmet. Trust me, once you try this Sheet Pan Harissa Salmon with Chickpeas and Broccolini, it might just become your new go-to.
Why love Sheet Pan Harissa Salmon?
Bold flavors: The spicy harissa glaze perfectly complements the tender salmon. Effortless cooking: Toss everything on one pan for a quick, minimal-cleanup meal. Textural delight: Crispy chickpeas add crunch while broccolini balances with freshness. Time-saver: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights. Versatile and impressive: Perfect for casual dinners or entertaining guests with gourmet flair.
Sheet Pan Harissa Salmon Ingredients
For the Salmon and Marinade
- Salmon fillets – Choose fresh, skin-on pieces for the best texture and flavor.
- Harissa paste – The star spice blend that brings smoky heat and depth to the salmon.
- Olive oil – Helps to coat the salmon and keep it moist during roasting.
- Lemon juice – Adds brightness and balances the richness of the harissa.
- Garlic cloves – Minced for a fragrant punch that complements the fish.
For the Chickpeas and Broccolini
- Canned chickpeas – Rinsed and dried to ensure they crisp up nicely in the oven.
- Broccolini – Tender stalks that roast quickly and add a fresh, green bite.
- Smoked paprika – Sprinkled on chickpeas for an extra smoky flavor boost alongside the harissa.
- Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.
This sheet pan harissa salmon with chickpeas and broccolini is fueled by vibrant, simple ingredients that come together for a fuss-free, flavor-packed meal.
How to Make Sheet Pan Harissa Salmon
For the Marinade:
- Mix marinade: In a bowl, whisk together harissa paste, olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic until smooth, vivid red, and ready to elevate your salmon.
For the Chickpeas & Broccolini:
- Season chickpeas: In a bowl, toss rinsed, dried chickpeas with smoked paprika, a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper until each is coated in fiery copper hue.
- Prep broccolini: Trim tough ends, then in the same bowl toss broccolini with olive oil, salt, and pepper until glossy and vibrant green.
For the Salmon & Assembly:
- Arrange salmon: Place fillets skin-side down on sheet pan, nestling them among chickpeas and broccolini. Brush generously with your harissa marinade.
- Roast everything: Slide pan into a preheated 400°F oven. Roast 12–15 minutes until salmon flakes easily, chickpeas are golden, and broccolini is tender-crisp.
- Serve: Let ingredients rest 2 minutes, then plate salmon alongside chickpeas and broccolini. Garnish with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
Optional: Drizzle yogurt sauce for creamy contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Sheet Pan Harissa Salmon with Chickpeas and Broccolini is fantastic for those busy weeknights when time is scarce! You can prepare the harissa marinade and coat the salmon fillets up to 24 hours in advance; just keep the salmon covered in the refrigerator to ensure it stays fresh. Additionally, you can toss the chickpeas and broccolini with their respective seasonings ahead of time—these can be prepped up to 3 days prior to maintain their vibrant flavors. When you’re ready to serve, simply arrange everything in a sheet pan and roast as instructed. This approach not only saves time but guarantees a meal that’s just as delicious and satisfying!
Variations & Substitutions for Sheet Pan Harissa Salmon
Feel free to explore flavors and ingredients that excite your palate with these delightful twists!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute yogurt sauce with a drizzle of tahini for a nutty, creamy finish that’s dairy-free yet rich.
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Spice it Up: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the chickpeas for an extra kick of heat. This fiery addition can elevate your dish seamlessly.
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Vegetable Boost: Swap out broccolini for asparagus or zucchini for different textures, providing a colorful, seasonal flair to your meal.
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Chickpea Alternatives: Use white beans or lentils in place of chickpeas for a unique twist and a slightly different flavor profile.
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Harissa Variations: Try using a different spice paste, such as za’atar or curry, for a completely different flavor adventure that will excite your tastebuds.
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Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your harissa paste is certified gluten-free and use quinoa instead of chickpeas for a protein-packed alternative.
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Meal Prep-Friendly: Prepare the salmon marinade and chop your vegetables ahead of time. This makes dinner a breeze during busy weeknights, keeping things stress-free.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like dill or cilantro before serving to brighten the dish and introduce an earthy, fresh aroma that complements the flavors beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Sheet Pan Harissa Salmon
Fridge: Store any leftover sheet pan harissa salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, keeping the flavors fresh.
Freezer: If you need to freeze, wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place salmon and vegetables on a sheet pan at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This preserves the dish’s delightful flavors and textures.
Leftovers: The chickpeas may lose some crunch after storage, but they’ll still be tasty and paired perfectly with the salmon. Enjoy your Sheet Pan Harissa Salmon even as a quick lunch!
What to Serve with Sheet Pan Harissa Salmon with Chickpeas and Broccolini?
Elevate your meal with delicious sides that enhance the vibrant flavors of this dish.
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Couscous Salad: A light, fluffy couscous salad mixed with fresh herbs and a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the spicy harissa beautifully, creating a balanced plate.
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Tzatziki Sauce: A cooling, creamy tzatziki made with yogurt and cucumber provides a delightful contrast to the heat of the salmon.
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Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa pilaf with nuts and dried fruits offers a satisfying chew, enhancing the meal’s wholesome flavors.
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Grilled Asparagus: Adding grilled asparagus introduces a smoky note, while its tender crunch perfectly complements the dish’s textures.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: Keep the palate refreshed with sparkling water garnished with lime for a zesty, non-alcoholic beverage option.
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Apple Crisp Dessert: Conclude your meal with a warm apple crisp; its sweetness and spice add a comforting finish.
Expert Tips for Sheet Pan Harissa Salmon
- Use skin-on salmon: The skin crisps up beautifully in the oven, adding texture and helping keep the fish moist during roasting.
- Dry chickpeas thoroughly: Pat chickpeas completely dry before seasoning to ensure they crisp up instead of steaming in the oven.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give broccolini and chickpeas enough space to roast evenly, avoiding sogginess and uneven cooking.
- Apply marinade generously: Coat salmon well with harissa paste to infuse bold flavors without overpowering the delicate fish.
- Watch oven time closely: Salmon cooks quickly; 12–15 minutes is ideal to achieve flaky, tender results without drying out.
- Rest briefly before serving: Letting everything pause 2 minutes after roasting locks in juices and lets flavors settle beautifully.
Sheet Pan Harissa Salmon with Chickpeas and Broccolini Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my salmon is fresh and ready for this recipe?
Look for firm, moist flesh with a bright pink or coral color and shiny skin. Avoid salmon with any off smells or dark spots all over. Freshness makes all the difference when marinating with harissa!
Can I store leftovers, and how long will they last?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll stay delicious for up to 3 to 4 days. Keep the salmon and veggies separate if possible to maintain texture and flavor.
Is it possible to freeze the cooked sheet pan meal?
Yes, you can freeze it! First, allow the fully cooked salmon, chickpeas, and broccolini to cool completely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then seal inside a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently at 350°F for 10 minutes.
What if my chickpeas are soggy instead of crispy after roasting?
Try these fixes: make sure to dry your chickpeas really well before seasoning—moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan; leave enough space for air to circulate. Using a high oven temperature like 400°F helps them crisp faster too. I often give them a quick toss halfway through roasting for even crunch!
Is this recipe safe for pets or anyone with dietary restrictions?
While this dish is packed with wholesome ingredients, harissa paste and garlic can be spicy or harmful to pets like dogs and cats, so keep leftovers away from them. For people with allergies, check the harissa ingredients carefully—it sometimes contains nuts or seeds. You can substitute with a milder spice blend if needed. This recipe is naturally gluten-free and packed with protein and veggies, ideal for many diets!
Easy Sheet Pan Harissa Salmon with Chickpeas and Broccolini Boosts Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together harissa paste, olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic until smooth, vivid red, and ready to elevate your salmon.
- In a bowl, toss rinsed, dried chickpeas with smoked paprika, a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper until each is coated.
- Trim tough ends of broccolini, then toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper until glossy.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down on the pan, nestling them among chickpeas and broccolini. Brush generously with harissa marinade.
- Slide pan into a preheated 400°F oven. Roast 12–15 minutes until salmon flakes easily, chickpeas are golden, and broccolini is tender-crisp.
- Let ingredients rest 2 minutes, then plate salmon alongside chickpeas and broccolini. Garnish with lemon wedges.
