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.
I first served this to my family on a busy weeknight and it quickly became a favorite for its simplicity and fresh flavors.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets: 4 fillets about 6 oz each skin-on or skinless
- Asparagus: 1 lb 450 g fresh trimmed
- Lemon: 1 lemon zested and juiced
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced
- Butter: 3 tbsp unsalted
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Sea salt: 1/2 tsp plus more to taste
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp freshly ground
- Red pepper flakes: 1/4 tsp optional
- Lemon slices: for serving
- Parsley: 2 tbsp fresh 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 recipe is a family favorite enjoyed especially during busy weeknights bringing everyone together quickly.
Notes
Pairs well with rice quinoa or crusty bread for a complete meal.
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.
Save to Pinterest This dish offers a fresh and easy way to enjoy salmon any night of the week.
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I tell when the salmon is cooked?
Look for opaque, flaky flesh that easily separates with a fork. Cooking until just done keeps salmon moist.
- → Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this dish?
Yes, thaw completely before cooking to ensure even searing and proper texture.
- → What is the best way to cook asparagus for tender-crisp results?
Sauté asparagus for 3-4 minutes until bright green and just tender, avoiding overcooking.
- → How can I adjust the sauce for more heat?
Increase crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne to your taste.
- → What are good side pairings for this salmon and asparagus dish?
Serve with quinoa, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the lemon-butter sauce.