Skillet Lemon-Butter Salmon Asparagus

Succulent salmon fillets and tender asparagus are seared in a zesty lemon-butter sauce for a bright, cozy dinner ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknights and bursting with fresh citrus flavor.

I first prepared this dish on a busy weeknight and was amazed at how quickly it came together while tasting so fresh and satisfying.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets: 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each) skin-on or skinless
• Asparagus: 1 lb (450 g) fresh asparagus trimmed
• Lemon: 1 lemon zested and juiced
• Garlic cloves: 2 cloves minced
• Unsalted butter: 3 tbsp
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Sea salt: 1/2 tsp plus more to taste
• Black pepper: 1/4 tsp freshly ground
• Red pepper flakes: 1/4 tsp crushed optional
• Lemon slices: for serving
• Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp chopped

Instructions

Step 1:

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2:

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 3:

Add asparagus and sauté for 3 4 minutes turning occasionally until just tender. Season lightly with salt and pepper Remove asparagus to a plate and cover to keep warm.

Step 4:

Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Place salmon fillets skin-side down if using skin-on and cook for 3 4 minutes without moving until the skin is crispy and the bottom is golden.

Step 5:

Flip the salmon and add remaining butter minced garlic lemon zest and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for another 2 3 minutes spooning the melted lemon-butter over the top as it cooks.

Step 6:

Pour in lemon juice and simmer for 1 2 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through and the sauce is glossy.

Step 7:

Return asparagus to the skillet nestling around the salmon. Warm through for 1 minute.

Step 8:

Serve immediately garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices.

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This recipe has become a family favorite we enjoy making together on weekend dinners.

Notes

Pairs well with rice quinoa or crusty bread.

Allergen Information

Contains fish and dairy butter For dairy-free option substitute butter with plant-based alternative Always check labels for hidden allergens.

Nutritional Information

Calories 380 Total Fat 23 g Carbohydrates 7 g Protein 35 g per serving

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This simple lemon-butter salmon with asparagus is sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

Recipe FAQ

→ How do I ensure the salmon cooks evenly?

Patting the salmon dry before seasoning and cooking skin-side down first helps achieve even cooking with a crispy exterior and moist interior.

→ Can I substitute asparagus with other vegetables?

Yes, green beans or broccolini work well as alternatives, offering similar texture and flavor balance.

→ What is the best way to infuse the lemon-butter flavor?

Sautéing minced garlic in melted butter before adding lemon zest and juice allows the flavors to meld beautifully over the salmon.

→ Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Butter can be replaced with plant-based alternatives while maintaining the richness of the lemon-butter sauce.

→ How can I tell when the salmon is perfectly cooked?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque appearance inside, usually after 2–3 minutes on the second side.