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.
This recipe has become my go-to for weeknight meals when I want something flavorful yet simple to prepare.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets: 4 fillets about 6 oz each skin-on or skinless
- Fresh asparagus: 1 lb 450 g trimmed
- Lemon: 1 lemon zested and juiced
- Garlic cloves: 2 cloves 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 meal always brings my family together around the dinner table to enjoy fresh and healthy food.
Notes
Pairs well with rice quinoa or crusty bread.
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.
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Enjoy this bright and simple dish any night of the week for a wholesome satisfying meal.
Recipe Questions
- → How do you prevent salmon from sticking to the skillet?
Pat the salmon dry and ensure the skillet and oil are hot before adding the fish. Cooking skin-side down first helps create a crispy barrier, making it easier to flip.
- → Can I substitute asparagus with other vegetables?
Yes, green beans or broccolini work well as alternatives, offering similar textures and flavors when sautéed.
- → What is the best way to achieve a bright lemon flavor?
Using both lemon zest and fresh lemon juice provides a vibrant citrus aroma and tang that complements the butter and salmon.
- → How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Replace the unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative or olive oil to maintain richness without dairy.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Rice, quinoa, or crusty bread are excellent companions that soak up the lemon-butter sauce beautifully.