Pin This 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.
This recipe has become my go-to weeknight dinner because it’s quick yet feels special enough to impress family and friends.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets: 4 fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
- Asparagus: 1 lb (450 g), trimmed
- Lemon: 1, zested and juiced
- Garlic cloves: 2, minced
- Unsalted butter: 3 tbsp
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Sea salt: 1/2 tsp plus more to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): 1/4 tsp
- Lemon slices: for serving
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, 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.
Pin This My family always looks forward to this dish on busy nights because it feels indulgent without taking all evening to prepare.
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.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 380 calories, 23 g total fat, 7 g carbohydrates, 35 g protein
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A quick and flavorful meal perfect for any weeknight that never fails to impress.
Recipe FAQs
- → What is the best way to cook salmon for this dish?
Cooking salmon skin-side down in a hot skillet helps achieve a crispy texture while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
- → Can I use other vegetables besides asparagus?
Yes, green beans or broccolini make excellent substitutes if asparagus isn’t available.
- → How do I prevent the lemon butter sauce from separating?
Simmer the lemon juice gently after adding butter and garlic, stirring continuously to keep the sauce smooth and glossy.
- → Is it necessary to use both olive oil and butter?
The combination of olive oil and butter provides both flavor and higher smoke point, ensuring ideal cooking temperature and rich taste.
- → Can this dish be made gluten-free and low carb?
Yes, this preparation naturally fits gluten-free and low-carb diets, centered around fresh fish and vegetables.