Garlic Butter Salmon with Roasted Asparagus Recipe

Salmon is a nutritious and versatile fish that pairs beautifully with bold, rich flavors. This garlic butter salmon with roasted asparagus is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create an incredible meal. The creamy, flavorful garlic butter sauce coats the tender salmon, while the roasted asparagus adds a healthy, crunchy contrast. It’s a quick and easy dish that feels elegant enough for a special dinner. Here’s how you can make it:
Ingredients:
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Asparagus: Place the trimmed asparagus on one side of the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly and set aside.
Cook the Salmon: Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the salmon fillets, skin side down, and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove from heat and set aside.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: While the salmon is cooking, melt the remaining butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden. Stir in lemon juice and cook for an additional minute.
Roast the Asparagus: While the salmon is cooking, place the baking sheet with asparagus in the preheated oven and roast for 12-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and lightly browned.
Assemble the Dish: Once the salmon is cooked and the asparagus is roasted, drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the salmon fillets. Serve the salmon with roasted asparagus on the side, garnished with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Serve and Enjoy: This dish can be served with a side of rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad.
Tips for the Perfect Garlic Butter Salmon:
- Cook the Salmon to Perfection: Be sure to avoid overcooking the salmon. Cook it until the fish is just opaque and flakes easily with a fork. It should still remain moist and tender.
- Add Herbs for Extra Flavor: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or dill can complement the garlic butter sauce and elevate the flavors.
- Adjust the Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to increase the amount of garlic in the sauce to suit your taste.
Conclusion:
This garlic butter salmon with roasted asparagus is an elegant and simple dish that combines delicious flavors with healthy ingredients. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The buttery, garlicky salmon pairs perfectly with the tender, roasted asparagus, making this meal both satisfying and nutritious. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this recipe will surely become a favorite!