Save 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 for quick weeknight dinners that feel special yet are simple to prepare.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets: about 6 oz each skin-on or skinless
- 1 lb fresh asparagus: trimmed
- 1 lemon: zested and juiced
- 2 garlic cloves: minced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter:
- 2 tbsp olive oil:
- 1/2 tsp sea salt: plus more to taste
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper:
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes: optional
- Lemon slices: for serving
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley: 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.
Save This dish always brings my family together around the table for a fresh and comforting meal.
Notes
Pairs well with rice quinoa or crusty bread.
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 Always check labels for hidden allergens.
Save This lemon-butter salmon is your new weeknight favorite delivering fresh taste with minimal effort.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve crispy salmon skin?
Pat the salmon dry and cook skin-side down in hot oil without moving it for several minutes to get a crispy texture.
- → Can I substitute asparagus with other vegetables?
Yes, green beans or broccolini work well and offer similar textures when sautéed.
- → What is the best way to keep asparagus tender?
Sauté asparagus briefly until just tender, about 3-4 minutes, then keep warm before combining with salmon.
- → How can I adjust the heat level in this dish?
Omit or reduce crushed red pepper flakes to lower the spiciness, or add more for additional heat.
- → Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
Replace butter with a plant-based alternative to keep buttery flavor while avoiding dairy.