Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon with Asparagus

📝 Description

This dish combines flaky, oven-roasted salmon with crisp-tender asparagus, all drenched in a luscious garlic butter sauce. It’s low-carb, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and bursting with flavor. Everything roasts together on one pan for easy cleanup and minimal prep.

🧾 Ingredients For Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon with Asparagus

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

• 1 lb (450 g) fresh asparagus, ends trimmed

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Lemon wedges, for serving

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or dried thyme/oregano)

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

🍽️ Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare Asparagus:
   Place trimmed asparagus on one side of the sheet pan. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.

3. Prepare Salmon:
   Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Place them skin-side down next to the asparagus. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.

4. Make Garlic Butter Sauce:
   In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and Italian seasoning.

5. Coat & Roast:
   Spoon the garlic butter sauce generously over the salmon and a bit over the asparagus. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork and asparagus is tender-crisp.

6. Optional Broil (for crispy tops):
   Switch oven to broil mode for the last 2–3 minutes to give the salmon a golden crust. Keep an eye on it!

7. Serve:
   Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

🧠 Tips & Notes

• Salmon doneness: Salmon is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temp of 145°F (63°C).

• Customize veggies: You can swap asparagus for green beans, zucchini, or broccoli (adjust cook time accordingly).

• Butter substitute: Use ghee or olive oil if you prefer a dairy-free option.

• Extra flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a touch of honey for balance.

🍽️ Servings

• Yield: 4 servings

• Serving size: 1 salmon fillet + 1/4 of the asparagus

🔢 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

💪 Health Benefits

• Salmon: Excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health.

• Asparagus: Rich in fiber, folate, and antioxidants, promoting digestion and detoxification.

• Garlic: Contains compounds with anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting effects.

• Low-carb: Keto and paleo friendly.

❓ Q&A

Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: Yes, just make sure to fully thaw and pat dry before roasting to avoid excess moisture.

Q: How do I know salmon is done?
A: It should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque throughout. An instant-read thermometer should read 145°F (63°C).

Q: Can I meal prep this recipe?
A: Yes! Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.

Q: What can I serve it with?
A: Great with quinoa, roasted potatoes, cauliflower rice, or a side salad.

Q: Can I cook this in an air fryer?
A: Yes, cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 10–12 minutes. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.