Skillet Lemon-Butter Salmon Asparagus (Printable Version)

Salmon and asparagus seared in a bright lemon-butter sauce for a flavorful, easy dinner.

# What You'll Need:

→ Fish & Vegetables

01 - 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
02 - 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed

→ Citrus & Aromatics

03 - 1 lemon, zested and juiced
04 - 2 garlic cloves, minced

→ Sauce & Seasonings

05 - 3 tbsp unsalted butter
06 - 2 tbsp olive oil
07 - 1/2 tsp sea salt, plus more to taste
08 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
09 - 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

→ Garnish

10 - Lemon slices, for serving
11 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

# Directions:

01 - Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
02 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add asparagus and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally, until just tender. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Remove asparagus to a plate and cover to keep warm.
03 - Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet. Place salmon fillets skin-side down (if skin-on) and cook without moving for 3 to 4 minutes until the skin is crispy and the bottom is golden brown.
04 - Flip the salmon fillets and add the remaining butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes while spooning the melted lemon-butter sauce over the salmon.
05 - Pour in lemon juice and simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through and the sauce becomes glossy.
06 - Return the asparagus to the skillet, nestling it around the salmon. Warm through for 1 minute.
07 - Transfer to plates and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve immediately.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Zesty lemon-butter adds bright flavor
  • Ready in just 30 minutes
02 -
  • For extra flavor add a splash of white wine to the pan with the lemon juice
  • Substitute green beans or broccolini for asparagus if desired
03 -
  • Pat salmon dry to ensure crispy skin
  • Spoon melted lemon-butter sauce over salmon while cooking for extra flavor
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