There’s something quietly satisfying about a meal that comes together effortlessly yet tastes like it took hours. That’s exactly what this Lemon Herb Butter Salmon and Asparagus delivers. It’s the kind of dish that feels special without demanding all your time or energy.
I still remember the first time I tried it. The aroma of garlic and lemon filling the kitchen while the salmon roasted gently beside vibrant green asparagus was enough to make me pause and appreciate the moment. When I finally sat down to eat, the buttery, herb-infused sauce clung to every bite, balancing the natural richness of the fish with bright, fresh notes. The asparagus offered the perfect snap, a crisp contrast to the tender salmon. It’s meals like this that turn simple ingredients into favorite memories.
Why You’ll Love It:
– A one-pan recipe that minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor.
– Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights when time is short.
– The lemon herb butter sauce adds a fresh, zesty punch that elevates everyday salmon.
– Balanced textures: flaky salmon paired with crisp-tender asparagus.
– Versatile enough to serve for family dinners or casual entertaining.
If you’re worried about complicated steps or long prep times, this dish will surprise you. The ingredients come together quickly, and the oven does most of the work while you relax or prepare a side salad. It’s a straightforward recipe that doesn’t cut corners on taste.
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Lemon Herb Butter Salmon and Asparagus
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A simple and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender salmon fillets and crisp asparagus roasted in a zesty lemon herb butter sauce.
Ingredients
4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each), skin on
1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped dill, thyme leaves, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create the lemon herb butter sauce.
Place the trimmed asparagus on one side of the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the other side of the baking sheet.
Brush half of the lemon herb butter sauce evenly over the salmon fillets.
Drizzle the remaining lemon herb butter sauce over the asparagus and toss lightly to coat.
Roast in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the asparagus is tender-crisp.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Serve the salmon fillets with the roasted asparagus alongside, spooning any remaining lemon herb butter from the pan over the top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
FAQ
How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked? Look for flesh that flakes easily with a fork but still looks moist. Overcooking can dry it out, so keep an eye on the timing.
Can I use frozen asparagus? Fresh asparagus works best for texture and flavor, but if frozen is all you have, thaw and pat dry before roasting to avoid sogginess.
Is it okay to substitute other herbs? Absolutely. If you prefer basil or chives over dill and thyme, feel free to swap. The lemon butter sauce is quite forgiving and delicious either way.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger group? Yes, just use a larger baking sheet or two pans to avoid overcrowding.
Tiny outro CTA
Give this Lemon Herb Butter Salmon and Asparagus a try tonight. It’s a simple way to enjoy a fresh, flavorful meal that feels like a little celebration on your plate.