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Savory Garlic Butter Baked Salmon with Tender Asparagus

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A quick and easy baked salmon recipe featuring a rich garlic butter glaze paired with tender, crisp asparagus. Perfect for a fuss-free, flavorful meal that feels special.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless, about 6 ounces each
  • 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 1 pound), trimmed
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined; set aside.
  3. Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus (about 1-2 inches) and lay the stalks evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using; toss lightly to coat and spread in a single layer.
  5. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if skin-on) on the baking sheet alongside the asparagus. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels.
  6. Generously spoon the garlic butter mixture over each salmon fillet, coating the tops and sides. Optionally, lift the fillets and spread some butter underneath.
  7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on fillet thickness, until salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  8. Optional: Broil for the last 1-2 minutes to create a golden crust, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 2 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  10. Serve salmon and asparagus hot, garnished with extra parsley or lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Pat salmon dry before applying garlic butter to help it stick and promote even cooking. Snap asparagus ends instead of cutting to keep tender parts. Check salmon doneness at 12 minutes for thinner fillets. Optional broil step adds a golden crust. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat gently in a low oven to avoid drying.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon, garlic butter, baked salmon, asparagus, easy dinner, healthy recipe, quick meal, seafood, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://realityeats.com/savory-garlic-butter-baked-salmon-with-tender-asparagus-easy-recipe/