Print

Quick Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe with Roasted Asparagus and Lemon

Quick Garlic Butter Salmon - featured image

A straightforward, quick, and healthy dinner featuring tender salmon glazed with garlic butter and roasted asparagus with lemon. Perfect for busy weeknights and clean eating.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces or 170 grams each, skin-on)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 medium lemon
  • Zest of 1 lemon, for garnish
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
  2. Trim the woody ends off the asparagus by snapping off the bottom inch. Toss asparagus in a mixing bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on the baking sheet in a single layer.
  3. Roast asparagus in the oven for 12-15 minutes until tender but slightly crisp.
  4. While asparagus roasts, pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  5. Melt butter in a large non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly.
  6. Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until the garlic butter starts to brown slightly.
  7. Carefully flip the salmon and cook for another 3-4 minutes, spooning garlic butter over the top. Salmon should be opaque and flake easily when done.
  8. Plate the salmon and asparagus. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over both, then garnish with lemon zest and chopped parsley.

Notes

Pat salmon dry before cooking to ensure a crispy sear. Avoid crowding asparagus on the baking sheet to allow proper roasting. If garlic starts to burn, reduce heat or remove skillet from heat temporarily. Cook salmon in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat gently in a skillet to preserve texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter salmon, roasted asparagus, lemon salmon, quick healthy dinner, easy salmon recipe, low carb dinner, gluten free salmon