Let me tell you, one pan salmon and asparagus with lemon garlic herb butter is a total game changer! If you’re looking for a quick and healthy dish that’s bursting with flavor, then this recipe is your new best friend. Seriously, it takes just about 30 minutes from start to finish, and you only need one pan—how easy is that? You get perfectly flaky salmon paired with tender asparagus, all drizzled in that heavenly lemon garlic herb butter. Trust me, this meal tastes so gourmet, yet it’s super simple to whip up on a busy weeknight. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a delightful choice for anyone trying to eat a bit healthier. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Ingredients List
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed (about 1 pound)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare One Pan Salmon and Asparagus with Lemon Garlic Herb Butter
Preheat the Oven
First thing’s first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is super important because it ensures that your salmon cooks evenly and the asparagus gets that perfect tender-crisp texture. So, while you’re getting everything else ready, let that oven work its magic!
Arrange the Salmon and Asparagus
Now, grab a baking sheet and lay out your salmon fillets and trimmed asparagus in a single layer. Make sure the salmon is skin-side down and the asparagus is nestled around it. You want them to have enough space to breathe and cook properly, so don’t overcrowd the pan. This way, both will roast beautifully and soak up all that delicious flavor!
Prepare the Lemon Garlic Herb Butter
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s just bubbling. Then, add in the minced garlic, lemon juice, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir it all together and let it sizzle for about a minute—Wow, the aroma is going to hit you! You want the garlic to be fragrant but not browned, as that can lead to a bitter taste. Once it’s ready, you’re set to drizzle this magic over your salmon and asparagus.
Combine and Bake
Carefully pour that luscious lemon garlic herb butter over the salmon and asparagus, making sure everything is nicely coated. Now, pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it, though! The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. If you like your asparagus a bit crispier, feel free to leave it in for a couple more minutes. Once it’s all cooked to perfection, take it out and get ready to plate up this amazing dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a one-pan wonder—easy cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal!
- You can whip it up in just about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-packed with zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs that elevate the dish.
- Healthy and nutritious, with plenty of protein and veggies to keep you satisfied.
- Customizable! Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or herbs for your own twist.
- Impressive enough for guests, yet simple enough for a casual dinner at home.
- It’s gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions!
Tips for Success
Alright, friends, here are my top tips to ensure your one pan salmon and asparagus with lemon garlic herb butter turns out absolutely perfect every time!
- Check your salmon thickness: Cooking times can vary based on how thick your salmon fillets are. If they’re on the thicker side, you might need to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. Just keep an eye on it—no one likes dry salmon!
- Crispier asparagus: If you prefer your asparagus with a bit more crunch, feel free to increase the baking time by a few minutes. Just watch it closely so it doesn’t overcook!
- Fresh herbs are fabulous: While dried herbs do the trick beautifully, using fresh thyme and rosemary can really elevate the flavor. Just double the amount since fresh herbs are less potent.
- Experiment with veggies: Don’t hesitate to add other veggies like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers to the mix! Just make sure they’re cut to a similar size as the asparagus for even cooking.
- Butter alternatives: If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can substitute the butter with olive oil. It’ll still taste amazing and give a lovely richness to the dish.
- Let it rest: Once you take your salmon and asparagus out of the oven, give it a minute or two to rest. This allows the juices to settle, making every bite wonderfully moist.
Follow these tips, and you’ll be amazed at how delicious your dish turns out! Enjoy the cooking adventure!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this one pan salmon and asparagus with lemon garlic herb butter! It’s always nice to know what’s going into our meals, right? Here’s an estimate of the nutritional values per serving, which is one salmon fillet and a quarter of the asparagus:
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 30g
Keep in mind that these are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes. The great thing is that you’re enjoying a meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with protein and healthy fats, which is perfect for a balanced diet. So dig in and feel good about what you’re eating!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Frozen salmon can still be delicious, but it might need a couple of extra minutes in the oven to cook through properly.
What can I serve with one pan salmon and asparagus?
This dish is fabulous on its own, but if you want to add a little something extra, consider serving it with a side of quinoa or a fresh green salad. It pairs beautifully with a light, citrusy dressing!
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque throughout. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Trust me, you want it just right!
Can I make this dish in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the lemon garlic herb butter ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to eat for maximum flavor!
What if I don’t have asparagus?
No problem! You can substitute with other veggies like green beans, broccoli, or even zucchini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable you choose. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have any leftovers from your one pan salmon and asparagus with lemon garlic herb butter (which is rare but can happen!), here’s how to store them properly to keep all that deliciousness intact. First, let the dish cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s sealed well to prevent any unwanted odors from sneaking in!
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven to maintain that lovely texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the salmon and asparagus on a baking sheet, and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help keep the salmon moist and the asparagus crisp. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overdo it! Heat in short bursts of about 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid drying it out.
And there you have it! Enjoy your leftovers just as much as the first time around!
For more delicious recipes, check out our blog or learn about the health benefits of salmon here.
Print
One Pan Salmon and Asparagus with Lemon Garlic Bliss
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
One pan salmon and asparagus with lemon garlic herb butter is a quick and healthy dish packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the salmon fillets and asparagus on a baking sheet.
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic, lemon juice, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the butter.
- Pour the lemon garlic herb butter over the salmon and asparagus.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust cooking time based on salmon thickness.
- For a crispier asparagus, increase baking time slightly.
- Fresh herbs can replace dried herbs for more flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet and 1/4 of asparagus
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: one pan salmon and asparagus with lemon garlic herb butter