Baked Salmon and Asparagus
Baked salmon and asparagus is a classic, crowd-pleasing dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. This recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights or special occasions, delivering a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. The combination of tender, flaky salmon and crisp, roasted asparagus creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds thoroughly satisfied.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this baked salmon and asparagus recipe is sure to become a new favorite. With its quick prep time and straightforward instructions, you can have a healthy, satisfying dinner on the table in no time. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet sophisticated dish.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
What sets this baked salmon and asparagus recipe apart is its delightful combination of flavors and textures. The salmon is deliciously tender and flaky, while the asparagus provides a delightful crunch and fresh, vibrant flavor. The easy preparation and quick cooking time make this dish a weeknight go-to, but it’s also impressive enough to serve at a dinner party.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences, and it’s adaptable to various dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb option, a dairy-free meal, or a protein-packed dish, this baked salmon and asparagus has you covered.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Baked Salmon and Asparagus ❓
• 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried dill
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
The beauty of this baked salmon and asparagus is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of tender salmon and crisp asparagus creates the Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile that has made seafood and vegetable-based recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Baked Salmon and Asparagus Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: Place the salmon fillets and asparagus spears on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil over the salmon and asparagus, and then sprinkle with the garlic powder, dried dill, salt, and black pepper.
• Step 3: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the asparagus is tender-crisp.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
• Total time: 17-20 minutes
Compared to traditional baked salmon dishes that can take up to 30 minutes to prepare, this baked salmon and asparagus saves you 40% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 456mg
These baked salmon and asparagus provide approximately 68% of your daily protein requirements and 12% of your daily fiber needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Serve the baked salmon and asparagus over a bed of leafy greens or cauliflower rice instead of traditional grains.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Omit any butter or cheese and use a dairy-free seasoning blend.
• Added protein: Serve the baked salmon and asparagus with a side of roasted chickpeas or lentils for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Add roasted cherry tomatoes or diced bell peppers to the baking sheet for additional nutrient-dense veggies.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the baked salmon and asparagus.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair with a fresh garden salad or a light and tangy lemon-dill sauce for a complementary flavor profile.
• Complement the baked salmon and asparagus with a crisp white wine or a refreshing citrus-infused water.
• For a family-style dinner, serve the baked salmon and asparagus alongside sautéed spinach and crusty whole-grain bread.
• Create an elegant appetizer platter with the baked salmon and asparagus, accompanied by sliced cucumbers and a lemon-herb yogurt dip.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Undercooking the asparagus: Make sure to trim the tough ends of the asparagus and roast it until it’s tender-crisp. Undercooked asparagus can be stringy and difficult to chew.
• Crowding the baking sheet: Ensure that the salmon fillets and asparagus spears are arranged in a single layer on the baking sheet, with enough space between them for even cooking.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t skimp on the garlic powder, dill, salt, and pepper. These simple seasonings are essential for adding flavor to the salmon and asparagus.
• Not checking the internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for optimal doneness.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These baked salmon and asparagus retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the salmon and asparagus as directed, but do not bake. Place the raw ingredients in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• Freezing baked: Allow the baked salmon and asparagus to cool completely, then wrap individual portions in foil or place in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
• Reheating: To reheat the baked salmon and asparagus, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through and the asparagus is crisp-tender.
❓ FAQs
Can I prepare the baked salmon and asparagus ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this recipe in advance. Assemble the salmon and asparagus on the baking sheet, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or when entertaining.
Can I substitute the salmon with another type of fish?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other types of fish, such as trout, cod, or halibut. You can adjust the cooking time as needed, as different types of fish may have varying thicknesses and cooking requirements.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb or keto diet?
Yes, this baked salmon and asparagus recipe is an excellent choice for those following a low-carb or keto diet. The dish is naturally low in carbohydrates and high in protein and healthy fats. To make it even more keto-friendly, you can serve it over a bed of leafy greens or cauliflower rice instead of traditional grains.
What if I don’t like dill? Can I use a different seasoning?
Absolutely! The dill is optional, and you can experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Try using a lemon-pepper blend, Italian seasoning, or even a simple combination of garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Can I add additional vegetables to the baking sheet?
Yes, you can definitely add more vegetables to the baking sheet. Some great options include cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, as different vegetables may have varying roasting requirements.
Conclusion
These baked salmon and asparagus represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a weeknight family dinner or a special occasion meal, they’re sure to impress with their tender, flaky salmon and crisp, roasted asparagus. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these baked salmon and asparagus dishes demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the oven. So, go ahead and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious and nutritious meal that’s sure to become a new household favorite.
Print
Baked Salmon and Asparagus
- Total Time: 17-20 minutes
Ingredients
• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried dill
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
• Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
• Step 2: Place the salmon fillets and asparagus spears on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil over the salmon and asparagus, and then sprinkle with the garlic powder, dried dill, salt, and black pepper.
• Step 3: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the asparagus is tender-crisp.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Cuisine: Americans
Keywords: Baked Salmon and Asparagus
