If you’re looking for a light, fresh, and healthy dinner option, this Baked Lemon Salmon with Asparagus is perfect for you. This dish features flaky, tender salmon baked with vibrant asparagus, all infused with the bright flavor of fresh lemon. It’s quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or want something healthy and easy, this meal will leave you satisfied.
Ready to bake up some deliciousness? Let’s get started!
Baked Lemon Salmon with Asparagus
Ingredients
For the Salmon and Asparagus
- 4 salmon fillets about 4-6 oz each
- 1 bunch asparagus tough ends trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp dried oregano or fresh
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard for extra flavor in the marinade
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat
- 1 tbsp capers for added brininess
Substitutions
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
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 Marinade
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- This will be your marinade for the salmon and asparagus.
Season the Salmon and Asparagus
- Place the salmon fillets and asparagus spears on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle the lemon marinade evenly over both the salmon and asparagus, making sure everything is coated.
- If you like, sprinkle the salmon with extra lemon zest for added brightness.
Bake the Salmon and Asparagus
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the asparagus is tender.
- The salmon should have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Serve
- Remove the salmon and asparagus from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 350-400
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
Notes/Advice:
- Additions/Subtractions:
- You can swap the asparagus for other veggies like green beans, zucchini, or broccoli, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
- For a more intense lemon flavor, feel free to add extra lemon zest or serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before eating.
- If you prefer crispy skin on your salmon, place the salmon skin-side up for the last 5 minutes of baking, or broil for 1-2 minutes.
Variations:
- Herb-Crusted Salmon: Add a mixture of fresh chopped herbs like parsley, dill, and thyme on top of the salmon for extra flavor.
- Garlic Butter Salmon: Swap the olive oil for melted butter and drizzle over the salmon and asparagus for a richer, buttery flavor.
- Spicy Lemon Salmon: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a bit of heat.
Suggestions:
- Serving Ideas: Serve this baked salmon and asparagus with a side of quinoa, rice, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal. A light salad or steamed vegetables would also complement the dish well.
- Make It Ahead: You can marinate the salmon and asparagus up to 4 hours ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out the salmon.
Wrapping It Up:
And there you have it—Baked Lemon Salmon with Asparagus that’s fresh, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make! This dish is perfect for a light, healthy dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste. With tender, flaky salmon and perfectly roasted asparagus, all infused with the bright flavors of lemon and garlic, it’s a meal that’s sure to become a favorite. So grab your salmon, zest that lemon, and bake up a delicious, wholesome dinner!