Light, elegant, and packed with nutrients, Salmon Fillet with Asparagus is a simple yet sophisticated dish that combines tender, flaky salmon with crisp, vibrant asparagus spears. Pan-seared or oven-baked with olive oil, lemon, and fresh herbs, this recipe delivers clean, fresh flavors that celebrate Mediterranean-style cooking. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or a healthy dinner for guests, this dish offers a perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and seasonal vegetables.
Ingredient
For the Salmon:
Salmon Fillets | 2 (about 6 oz / 170g each) |
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Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon |
Salt | ½ teaspoon |
Black Pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
Garlic Powder (optional) | ¼ teaspoon |
Lemon Wedges | 1 (for serving) |
Fresh Asparagus Spears | 1 bunch (about 1 lb / 450g) |
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Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon |
Salt | ¼ teaspoon |
Black Pepper | ⅛ teaspoon |
Garlic Powder (optional) | ⅛ teaspoon |
Cooking Steps
Step 1: Prepare Asparagus
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Wash the asparagus spears and pat them dry. To trim, simply snap off the woody ends (they'll naturally break where the tender part begins).
- On a large baking sheet, toss the asparagus with 1 tablespoon olive oil, ¼ teaspoon salt, ⅛ teaspoon black pepper, and optional ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder.
- Spread the asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Step 2: Prepare Salmon
- Pat the salmon fillets very dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear, especially on the skin.
- Season both sides of the salmon generously with ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and optional ¼ teaspoon garlic powder.
Step 3: Roast Asparagus
- Place the baking sheet with the asparagus into the preheated oven.
- Roast for 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your asparagus spears, until they are tender-crisp and slightly browned.
Step 4: Pan-Sear Salmon
- While the asparagus is roasting, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering hot.
- Carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if applicable) in the hot skillet. If skinless, place presentation-side down.
- Sear for 4-6 minutes on the first side, until the skin is crispy and golden brown (if skin-on), and the bottom half of the fillet turns opaque.
Step 5: Finish Cooking Salmon
- Flip the salmon fillets.
- You can now either:
- Finish on Stovetop: Reduce heat to medium and continue cooking for another 3-6 minutes, or until the salmon reaches your desired doneness.
- Finish in Oven: If your skillet is oven-safe, transfer the skillet directly to the oven alongside the asparagus for the last 5-8 minutes of roasting.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove the salmon and asparagus from the oven/stove.
- Plate the salmon fillet alongside the roasted asparagus.
- Squeeze a fresh lemon wedge over the salmon before serving.
Extra Tips for Perfect Salmon
- Patting Dry is Key: For the best sear and crispy skin, ensure your salmon fillets are as dry as possible before seasoning and placing them in the pan.
- Don't Overcook: Salmon can dry out quickly. Use a meat thermometer or check for flakiness with a fork to ensure it's cooked just right.
- Hot Skillet: A well-heated pan creates that beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Save Leftovers: Cooked salmon is great for salads or quick sandwiches the next day.
Nutritional Value
(per serving, based on 2 servings)
Calories | 400-550 kcal |
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Protein | 35-45 grams |
Fat | 25-35 grams |
Carbohydrates | 5-10 grams |
Fiber | 2-4 grams |
Benefits
- ✅ Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon supports heart and brain health.
- ✅ High in Protein: Keeps you full and promotes muscle maintenance.
- ✅ Loaded with Vitamins: Asparagus adds fiber, folate, and antioxidants.
- ✅ Low-Carb & Gluten-Free: Ideal for keto, paleo, or balanced eating.
- ✅ Quick & Versatile: Cooks in under 30 minutes with easy prep.
With its flaky salmon, crisp asparagus, and zesty lemon-herb finish, Salmon Fillet with Asparagus delivers freshness, flavor, and nutrition in every bite. It’s a go-to dish for healthy home cooking that doesn’t compromise on elegance or taste.
Explore more seafood recipes, Mediterranean-style meals, and quick healthy dinners on our site. Try this Salmon with Asparagus tonight for a clean, vibrant dish you’ll want to make again and again.