Ingredients
- 2 skinless salmon fillets
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish: dill or parsley)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using a skillet, heat it over medium-high heat on the stove.
- Prepare the salmon: Butterfly each salmon fillet by cutting through the middle, creating a pocket without cutting all the way through. This helps the fish cook more evenly and gives it a tender texture.
- Season the salmon: Drizzle olive oil over the salmon fillets. Sprinkle with garlic powder, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish.
- Prepare the asparagus: Trim the tough ends of the asparagus and toss them in a little olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the salmon and asparagus:
- In the oven: Place the salmon and asparagus on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 15–18 minutes, or until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
- On the stove: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the asparagus for 4-5 minutes until tender, then remove from the pan. Add the salmon fillets to the skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and flaky.
- Serve: Plate the salmon with a generous portion of asparagus on the side. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, for added flavor and a pop of color.
Serving Suggestions
- On the side: Serve with roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Drizzle with sauce: For extra flavor, top the salmon with a light drizzle of hollandaise sauce or a fresh lemon-butter sauce.
- Add a twist: For a Mediterranean-inspired twist, top with crumbled feta cheese and black olives.
Pro Tips for Perfect Butterfly Salmon
- Don’t overcook the salmon: Salmon cooks quickly and should be tender and flaky. To check for doneness, insert a fork into the thickest part of the fish — it should easily separate into flakes.
- Even seasoning: Be sure to season both sides of the salmon and the asparagus for a balanced flavor.
- Alternative veggies: Feel free to swap asparagus for other veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach, depending on your preference.
Final Thoughts
Butterfly Salmon with Asparagus is a simple, elegant, and healthy dish that brings the best of both worlds — rich, flaky salmon and vibrant, tender asparagus. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just treating yourself to a healthy, delicious dinner, this meal is sure to impress.
The best part? It’s ready in just 20 minutes, so you can enjoy a nourishing, flavorful dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.