Name: Build-Your-Own Protein Dinner: Lemon-Garlic Salmon or Paprika 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; 2 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp dried oregano; 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 Paprika Chicken with Mediterranean Pasta & Veggies

miradugm

This customizable, high-protein dinner is perfect for pleasing a crowd with mixed dietary preferences. Guests can choose between juicy, lemon-garlic salmon fillets or flavorful paprika chicken breast, both roasted to perfection. Pair either protein with a vibrant side of whole wheat pasta tossed with broccolini, sweet cherry tomatoes, and briny capers for a Mediterranean-inspired feast. The build-your-own plating style keeps things fun and interactive, while the simple prep ensures you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your company. It’s a dinner party win for everyone at the table!

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, smoked paprika, oregano, 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.