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Garlic Butter Salmon with Asparagus

Garlic Butter Salmon with Asparagus
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Garlic Butter Salmon with Asparagus is an elegant yet easy dish that brings together rich, buttery flavors and fresh, crisp vegetables — all ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe highlights the delicate taste of salmon enhanced by a fragrant garlic butter sauce and tender asparagus. Packed with omega-3s, protein, and vitamins, it’s a wholesome and restaurant-quality meal that’s simple to make at home.

Ingredients

For the Salmon and Asparagus:

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on or skinless

  • 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed

  • 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • Lemon wedges, for serving

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter (preferably European-style)

  • 3–4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill

  • Optional: ½ tsp paprika or chili flakes for spice

Instructions

  • Prepare the Ingredients:
    Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika if desired. Trim asparagus and toss with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper.

  • Cook the Salmon (Pan-Searing Method):
    Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon fillets skin-side down (if skin-on) and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and nearly cooked through. Remove and set aside.

  • Cook the Asparagus:
    In the same pan, add the asparagus and sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until bright green and tender-crisp. Remove from pan and set aside with the salmon.

  • Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
    Reduce heat to medium-low. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t burn). Stir in lemon juice and herbs.

  • Combine and Serve:
    Return the salmon and asparagus to the pan. Spoon the garlic butter over them and heat for 1–2 minutes until everything is coated and warmed through.

  • Plate and Garnish:

  • Serve immediately, drizzled with remaining garlic butter. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.

Notes

  • For oven-baked salmon, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake fillets for 12–15 minutes. Add garlic butter during the last few minutes.

  • Grilling option: Brush salmon and asparagus with oil; grill over medium heat for 4–6 minutes per side.

  • Use wild-caught salmon (like Sockeye or King) for richer flavor and better nutrition.

  • Avoid overcooking; salmon should flake easily but remain moist.

  • Make-ahead tip: Prepare garlic butter up to 3 days in advance or freeze for 3 months.

  • Serve with mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a light salad for a complete meal.

Find it online: https://bon-recipe.com/garlic-butter-salmon-with-asparagus/