Description
This One-Pan Baked Salmon and Asparagus recipe is a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender salmon fillets baked alongside fresh asparagus, all enhanced with garlic butter and lemon for a deliciously simple dish that requires minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon and Vegetables
- 1 large salmon fillet (4–6 single portion fillets)
- 1 pound asparagus spears, ends trimmed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs for topping
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 1/2 cup butter
- Juice of 1 medium lemon, plus additional lemon slices for garnish (optional)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange salmon and asparagus: Place the salmon fillet in the center of the baking sheet. Arrange the trimmed asparagus spears evenly around the salmon. Place lemon slices under the edges of the salmon. Season both the salmon and asparagus generously with salt and pepper.
- Make garlic butter sauce: In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Once fully melted, stir in the minced garlic and lemon juice. Remove from heat and pour this flavorful mixture evenly over the salmon and asparagus.
- Bake the dish: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes at 400°F. This initial baking starts cooking the salmon and softens the asparagus.
- Broil for finishing touch: After 10 minutes, switch the oven to broil setting. Broil the salmon and asparagus for an additional 5 to 7 minutes to achieve a slightly crisp and nicely browned finish on the salmon. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Rest and serve: For a medium to medium-well doneness, remove the salmon once its internal temperature reaches 125-130°F (52-54°C) and let it rest for 5 minutes. Top with fresh herbs if desired before serving for an added burst of flavor and color.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon slices under the salmon for extra citrus aroma and moisture.
- Adjust broiling time based on the thickness of your salmon fillets to avoid overcooking.
- Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme complement this dish beautifully.
- Letting the salmon rest improves juiciness and texture.
- This recipe is easy to double for larger gatherings.