Baked Salmon with Lemon and Asparagus Recipe

If you are looking for a delightful dish that combines freshness, ease, and loads of flavor, look no further than Baked Salmon with Lemon and Asparagus. This recipe balances the tender, flaky goodness of salmon with the crisp, vibrant bite of asparagus, all brought together by a zesty lemon and aromatic garlic butter sauce. It’s not only a colorful plate but also a nutritional powerhouse that is perfect for weeknights or a special dinner with friends. Every bite delivers that perfect harmony of tangy, buttery, and herbal notes that keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might be simple, but each one plays a crucial role in creating a deliciously balanced Baked Salmon with Lemon and Asparagus. From the freshness of lemon to the comforting richness of butter and garlic, every flavor counts!

• 6 individual salmon filets: Look for fresh, skin-on filets for extra flavor and moisture.
• 1 pound asparagus spears, trimmed: Choose firm, bright green asparagus for the best texture.
• ½ cup butter: Key for creating the luscious garlic-herb sauce that coats the fish and veggies.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a savory punch that beautifully complements the salmon.
• 1 lemon: Both juice and slices bring brightness and a lovely acidity to the dish.
• 1½ tablespoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that infuses the butter with herby goodness.
• Fresh chopped parsley (to garnish): Adds a burst of color and freshness at the end.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.

How to Make Baked Salmon with Lemon and Asparagus

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet

To start, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. This setup helps with easy cleanup and ensures your salmon doesn’t stick, which makes serving a breeze.

Step 2: Arrange the Salmon and Asparagus

Place the salmon filets on the baking sheet spaced evenly. Arrange the trimmed asparagus spears in a single layer around the fish. This gives you a one-pan wonder that’s convenient and keeps the flavors mingling beautifully during cooking.

Step 3: Add Lemon and Season

Slice half of your lemon into thin rounds and tuck these directly underneath each salmon filet. The lemon slices gently infuse the salmon with citrus flavor as it bakes. Then, season the salmon and asparagus with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, sprinkling evenly for perfect seasoning.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Herb Butter Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, add minced garlic and Italian seasoning, stirring continuously so the flavors meld and the garlic softens but does not burn. Remove from heat promptly, and generously pour the mixture over your salmon filets and asparagus, making sure every piece is coated in this mouthwatering sauce.

Step 5: Bake and Broil

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. Next, switch your oven to broil and broil the dish for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until the tops of the salmon filets develop a beautiful golden-brown color. This final step adds that irresistible caramelized finish that takes the dish to the next level.

Step 6: Final Touches and Serving

Once done, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Before plating, squeeze the juice of the remaining half lemon over the salmon and asparagus for an extra kick of brightness. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra lemon slices for a pop of color and freshness. You’ve just completed your stunning Baked Salmon with Lemon and Asparagus!

How to Serve Baked Salmon with Lemon and Asparagus

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley is a must for adding vibrant green color and a slightly peppery flavor that complements the buttery salmon. Additional lemon slices on the plate make it look beautiful and allow guests to add extra citrus if desired.

Side Dishes

Baked Salmon with Lemon and Asparagus pairs beautifully with light and simple sides. Think steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or roasted baby potatoes for a filling meal. For something green, a fresh garden salad or garlic sautéed spinach keeps the focus on the beautifully baked main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a wow factor, serve the salmon on a wooden board with the asparagus fanned out beside it, garnished with edible flowers or microgreens. Another idea is to plate the salmon atop a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or herbed couscous, letting the asparagus spears peek out for contrast. The luscious garlic butter sauce can be drizzled creatively or passed on the side for your guests to add as they please.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Baked Salmon with Lemon and Asparagus should be cooled to room temperature, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days without losing too much flavor or texture. This makes it a fantastic option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

If you want to save it longer, you can freeze the salmon filets and asparagus separately wrapped tightly in freezer-safe wrap or containers. Frozen cooked salmon generally keeps well up to 2 months, but note the asparagus may lose some texture once thawed, so it’s best eaten fresh when possible.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the salmon and asparagus in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit, covered loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Microwave is okay for quick reheats, but use shorter bursts and check often to avoid overcooking. A splash of fresh lemon juice before serving will revive those bright, fresh flavors.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon as long as it is thoroughly thawed before baking. Pat the filets dry well to ensure they cook evenly and the garlic butter sauce clings beautifully.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

No worries! You can make your own blend using dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary, or simply use a mix of dried herbs you enjoy. The seasoning adds depth, but fresh garlic and lemon will still shine through wonderfully.

Can I substitute the butter with olive oil?

Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter option, olive oil works great and adds its own fruity richness to the dish. Just warm the oil with garlic and herbs before pouring over the salmon and asparagus.

How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of about 145 degrees Fahrenheit. The broiling step helps create a golden crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Can I add other vegetables to the baking sheet?

Definitely! Cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced bell peppers, or zucchini work well alongside asparagus. Just keep them cut into similar thicknesses for even cooking and toss them in the garlic butter sauce.

Final Thoughts

Baked Salmon with Lemon and Asparagus is truly one of those recipes that feels special without any fuss. It’s fresh, flavorful, and straightforward enough to become your go-to for a healthy weeknight dinner or a lovely weekend treat. I promise once you try it, the combination of buttery garlic, tangy lemon, and roasted asparagus alongside flaky salmon will become a personal favorite you’ll want to make again and again.

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