Save to Pinterest Succulent salmon fillets and tender asparagus are seared in a zesty lemon-butter sauce for a bright, cozy dinner ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknights and bursting with fresh citrus flavor.
An easy weeknight meal that quickly became a favorite in my home thanks to its fresh citrus flavor and minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets: 4 (about 6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
- Asparagus: 1 lb (450 g), trimmed
- Lemon: 1, zested and juiced
- Garlic cloves: 2, minced
- Unsalted butter: 3 tbsp
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Sea salt: 1/2 tsp plus more to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): 1/4 tsp
- Lemon slices: for serving
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Step 2:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Step 3:
- Add asparagus and sauté for 3 4 minutes turning occasionally until just tender. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Remove asparagus to a plate and cover to keep warm.
- Step 4:
- Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Place salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on) and cook for 3 4 minutes without moving until the skin is crispy and the bottom is golden.
- Step 5:
- Flip the salmon and add remaining butter minced garlic lemon zest and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 2 3 minutes spooning the melted lemon-butter over the top as it cooks.
- Step 6:
- Pour in lemon juice and simmer for 1 2 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through and the sauce is glossy.
- Step 7:
- Return asparagus to the skillet nestling around the salmon. Warm through for 1 minute.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices.
Save to Pinterest This recipe quickly became a beloved family dinner especially on busy weeknights when I want something flavorful and fast.
Required Tools
Large skillet Tongs or spatula Zester or grater Measuring spoons Knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains fish and dairy (butter). For dairy-free option substitute butter with plant-based alternative. Always check labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories 380 Total Fat 23 g Carbohydrates 7 g Protein 35 g per serving
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This vibrant dish is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a healthy family meal any day of the week.
Recipe Q&A
- → What is the best way to cook salmon for this dish?
Pan-searing salmon skin-side down first creates crispy skin and locks in juices, ensuring tender and flavorful fillets.
- → Can I substitute asparagus with other vegetables?
Yes, green beans or broccolini work well as alternatives, maintaining a fresh texture and complementing the lemon-butter sauce.
- → How do I ensure the lemon-butter sauce stays smooth?
Simmer gently after adding lemon juice and butter, stirring occasionally to blend flavors without breaking the sauce.
- → Is it necessary to use fresh lemon zest and juice?
Fresh lemon zest and juice provide bright, natural citrus notes that enhance the sauce's flavor best.
- → Can this dish be prepared dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative to keep the buttery richness without dairy.