Baked Salmon with Lemon and Asparagus Recipe
This Baked Salmon with Lemon and Asparagus is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Tender salmon filets are baked with fresh asparagus, infused with garlic and Italian seasoning, and brightened with fresh lemon juice. The buttery garlic drizzle adds richness while the broiling step ensures a beautifully browned top. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a nutritious meal with minimal fuss.
- Author: Isla
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and Broiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Salmon and Vegetables
- 6 individual salmon filets
- 1 pound asparagus spears, trimmed
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon (half sliced, half juiced)
Butter Sauce
- ½ cup butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1½ tablespoons Italian seasoning
Garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for topping
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange Salmon and Asparagus: Place the 6 salmon filets on the prepared baking sheet. Arrange the trimmed asparagus spears around the filets in a single even layer for even cooking.
- Add Lemon Slices and Season: Slice half of the lemon into thin slices and place them underneath each salmon filet. Season both the salmon and asparagus generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance flavors.
- Prepare Butter Garlic Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, melt ½ cup of butter. Add minced garlic and 1½ tablespoons Italian seasoning. Stir continuously until the garlic is fragrant and the seasoning is well incorporated, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat immediately to avoid burning.
- Coat Salmon and Asparagus: Pour the warm butter mixture evenly over the salmon and asparagus, ensuring the filets are well-coated for maximum flavor infusion.
- Bake the Dish: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. This will cook the salmon nearly through and soften the asparagus slightly.
- Broil for Finishing Touch: After baking, switch your oven setting to broil. Broil the salmon and asparagus for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until the tops of the filets develop a nice golden-brown crust and the asparagus tips begin to char slightly.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the baking sheet from the oven carefully. Transfer the salmon filets and asparagus onto individual plates. Squeeze the juice of the remaining half lemon over the dish to add fresh acidity. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Optionally, add grated Parmesan cheese before baking for an extra layer of savory flavor.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately, optionally with sides like steamed rice or roasted baby potatoes to make a complete meal.
Notes
- For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on the salmon before baking.
- Use fresh garlic for best taste; garlic powder may alter the flavor.
- Trim asparagus ends to avoid tough or woody texture.
- Adjust cooking time if salmon filets are particularly thick or thin; ensure fish is opaque and flakes easily.
- This recipe pairs well with simple sides like steamed rice or roasted baby potatoes for a balanced meal.
- You can substitute butter with olive oil for a lighter alternative.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon filet with asparagus (about 1/6th of recipe)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: baked salmon, lemon salmon, asparagus recipe, healthy dinner, garlic butter salmon, Italian seasoning fish, quick salmon recipe