Pan-Seared Salmon with Asparagus Recipe
This Pan-Seared Salmon with Asparagus recipe features perfectly crispy salmon skin and tender, flavorful asparagus. The salmon is seared to develop a golden crust while staying moist inside, complemented by a zesty lemon butter sauce that brings the dish together beautifully. Ready in just 15 minutes, this simple yet elegant meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
- Author: Maya
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Salmon & Seasoning
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Vegetables
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
Sauce & Cooking Fats
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 teaspoon mixed fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or dill)
- Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets very dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Sear the salmon skin-side up: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side up in the pan and cook without moving them for about 4 minutes until a golden crust forms.
- Flip the salmon: Carefully turn the fillets skin-side down and continue cooking for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through but still moist inside.
- Cook the asparagus: In the same pan, push the salmon to one side and add the trimmed asparagus. Sauté the asparagus for about 3 to 4 minutes until tender-crisp, turning occasionally.
- Make lemon butter sauce: Reduce heat to low and add butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh herbs to the pan. Spoon the melted lemon butter sauce over the salmon and asparagus, letting it warm through for about 1 minute.
- Serve: Plate the salmon with asparagus and drizzle extra lemon butter sauce over the dish. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
- Patting the salmon dry before cooking is key to achieving a crispy crust.
- Trim the asparagus ends by bending until they snap naturally to avoid tough parts.
- Use fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme to enhance flavor.
- If you prefer, you can substitute lemon zest with a few drops of lemon juice for brightness.
- Cook salmon to an internal temperature of about 125°F for medium-rare and 145°F for well done.
Keywords: Pan-Seared Salmon, Asparagus, Lemon Butter Sauce, Quick Dinner, Healthy Seafood