Sometimes, the best meals come together when you least expect it. I remember one evening, after a long day, craving something light but satisfying. The aroma of garlic sizzling in butter filled the kitchen, mingling with the fresh zing of lemon zest. As the salmon baked alongside crisp asparagus, a comforting warmth spread through the house. The tender fish flaked perfectly, rich with herb-infused butter, while the asparagus kept its vibrant snap. Sitting down to that plate, the combination of flavors and textures felt like a little celebration of simple joys, a reminder that a beautiful meal doesn’t have to be complicated.
Why You’ll Love It:
– Ready in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
– One-pan recipe means less cleanup without sacrificing flavor.
– The lemon herb butter sauce adds brightness and richness that complements both salmon and asparagus.
– Balanced and nutritious, providing protein and veggies in a single dish.
– Elegant enough for company, yet easy enough for a quiet night in.
If you’re worried about the salmon drying out or the asparagus getting limp, this method keeps everything perfectly cooked and juicy. Plus, the finishing touch of herb butter right before serving ensures every bite bursts with freshness.
PrintLemon Herb Butter Salmon and Asparagus
A simple and delicious one-pan recipe featuring tender salmon fillets and crisp asparagus, cooked in a flavorful lemon herb butter sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4
Ingredients
4 salmon fillets, skin on, about 6 ounces each
1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the trimmed asparagus on a large baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly and spread in a single layer.
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and chopped dill. Mix well to create the lemon herb butter.
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on top of the asparagus on the baking sheet. Season the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper.
Divide half of the lemon herb butter evenly over the salmon fillets.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12 minutes.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and spread the remaining lemon herb butter over the salmon and asparagus.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 3 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
FAQ:
Q: Can I substitute the asparagus for another vegetable?
A: Absolutely! Green beans or broccolini work wonderfully and bake in a similar time frame.
Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
Q: Can I prepare the lemon herb butter ahead of time?
A: Yes, making the butter mixture a day ahead actually allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
A: Dried herbs can be used, but fresh parsley and dill really brighten the dish.
Q: Can I cook this on the stovetop?
A: While baking ensures even cooking and crisp asparagus, you can pan-sear the salmon and sauté the asparagus separately for a similar effect.
This dish makes weeknight dinners feel special without the fuss. Try it tonight and enjoy a plate that’s as comforting as it is delicious.