One-Pan Salmon and Asparagus Recipe

Discover the ultimate one-pan salmon recipe featuring flaky salmon fillets and tender roasted asparagus, all drizzled with a rich, flavorful lemon-garlic-herb butter. This healthy dinner recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, taking just 30 minutes to prepare and cook.

Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and fresh vegetables, this dish offers a nutritious and satisfying meal without the mess. The simple preparation—baked on a single sheet pan—makes cleanup a breeze. Ideal for those looking for an easy and healthy salmon recipe, this dish is also customizable with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.

Enjoy this crowd-pleasing dinner that’s great for the whole family or a romantic meal for two. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea, low-carb recipe, or just a way to elevate your salmon, this one-pan recipe has it all.

This One-Pan Salmon and Asparagus Recipe is a delicious and healthy dinner that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Featuring flaky salmon, tender asparagus, and a rich lemon-garlic-herb butter, it’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Plus, it’s all baked on a single sheet pan for effortless cleanup!

Ingredients

For the Salmon and Asparagus:

• 2 lbs salmon fillet, cut into six 6-oz portions
• 2 lbs asparagus (2 bunches), fibrous ends trimmed
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 small lemon, sliced into thin rings for garnish

For the Lemon-Garlic-Herb Butter:

• 6 Tbsp (85 grams) unsalted butter, softened (*see note below for quick softening)
• 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice (from 1 small lemon)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
• 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Prep:

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F, positioning the rack in the top third.
2. Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper, trimming it to fit snugly to avoid charring under the broiler.

How to Make One-Pan Salmon and Asparagus:

1. Prepare the salmon and asparagus: Place salmon fillets in a single row down the center of the baking sheet. Arrange trimmed asparagus spears on either side of the salmon. Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil, rolling them to coat evenly. Sprinkle both the asparagus and salmon with salt and black pepper.
2. Make the flavored butter: In a medium bowl, mash together the softened butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mash until fully combined (or use a food processor if preferred).
3. Assemble and bake: Spoon 3/4 of the prepared butter mixture over the salmon, spreading it evenly across the fillets. Dab the remaining butter mixture over the asparagus. Garnish each salmon fillet with a lemon slice.
4. Bake: Bake uncovered at 450°F for 10-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets (thinner fillets take less time).
5. Broil: Switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the salmon has a golden top and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy this flavorful and healthy meal!

Tips

• Softening butter quickly: Cut butter into small cubes and leave it at room temperature for 15 minutes, or microwave it for 5-10 seconds (watch closely to prevent melting).
• Check doneness: Salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F.
• Parchment paper tip: Properly trimming the parchment paper prevents it from burning under the broiler.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetables: Swap asparagus for green beans, broccoli, or zucchini for variety.
• Seasoning: Add a pinch of paprika or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Butter substitute: Use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: Yes! Thaw frozen salmon in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
A: Substitute with dried parsley or another fresh herb like dill or chives.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the flavored butter and trim the asparagus in advance, but for the best texture, bake the salmon fresh.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of wild rice, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.
• Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep and cleanup.
• Healthy and nutritious: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals.
• Flavor-packed: The lemon-garlic-herb butter elevates the dish with zesty, rich flavors.
• Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a centerpiece for a special meal.

Enjoy the simplicity and elegance of this One-Pan Salmon and Asparagus Recipe—a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is to eat!

One-Pan Salmon and Asparagus Recipe

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

5

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Ingredients

• For the Salmon and Asparagus:

• 2 lbs salmon fillet, cut into six 6-oz portions

• 2 lbs asparagus (2 bunches), fibrous ends trimmed

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 Tbsp olive oil

• 1 small lemon, sliced into thin rings for garnish

• For the Lemon-Garlic-Herb Butter:

• 6 Tbsp (85 grams) unsalted butter, softened (*see note below for quick softening)

• 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice (from 1 small lemon)

• 2 garlic cloves, minced or pressed

• 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 1 tsp sea salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Directions

• Preheat your oven to 450°F, positioning the rack in the top third.
• Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper, trimming it to fit snugly to avoid charring under the broiler.
• How to Make One-Pan Salmon and Asparagus:
• Prepare the salmon and asparagus: Place salmon fillets in a single row down the center of the baking sheet. Arrange trimmed asparagus spears on either side of the salmon. Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil, rolling them to coat evenly. Sprinkle both the asparagus and salmon with salt and black pepper.
• Make the flavored butter: In a medium bowl, mash together the softened butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mash until fully combined (or use a food processor if preferred).
• Assemble and bake: Spoon 3/4 of the prepared butter mixture over the salmon, spreading it evenly across the fillets. Dab the remaining butter mixture over the asparagus. Garnish each salmon fillet with a lemon slice.
• Bake: Bake uncovered at 450°F for 10-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets (thinner fillets take less time).
• Broil: Switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the salmon has a golden top and flakes easily with a fork.
• Serve immediately and enjoy this flavorful and healthy meal!