Healthy Lemon Herb Salmon With Roasted Asparagus

Name: Healthy Lemon Herb Salmon With Roasted Asparagus
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

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I love whipping up this Healthy Lemon Herb Salmon with Roasted Asparagus when I want a nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The fresh herbs combined with the brightness of lemon elevate the salmon beautifully, while the asparagus provides a perfect crunch. This dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. With vibrant colors and bold tastes, it’s become a go-to in my household for any occasion.

Created by

Seraphina Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-27T20:01:35.288Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was amazed at how the lemon juice infused the salmon with a fresh zest, while the combination of herbs brought everything to life. By allowing the salmon to marinate for just a few minutes, I enhanced the flavors beautifully. The roasted asparagus, seasoned simply with olive oil, pairs perfectly and adds lovely texture to the meal.

One of my favorite aspects of this dish is how quickly it comes together. In just 30 minutes from start to finish, I can serve a nutritious meal that feels both gourmet and satisfying. I also love how you can customize the herbs based on what you have on hand, making this a versatile recipe that I can enjoy year-round.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh herbs that amplify the salmon's natural flavor
Quick preparation for a healthy weeknight dinner
A delightful side of perfectly roasted asparagus

Perfecting the Salmon

When preparing the salmon, the key is to let it marinate long enough for the flavors to penetrate deeply into the flesh. The combination of olive oil and lemon juice creates a beautiful marinade that not only enhances the taste but also helps keep the salmon moist during cooking. Ensure that the fillets are fully coated, and if you're short on time, even 10 minutes of marinating will make a significant difference in flavor. For best results, choose skin-on salmon fillets, as the skin adds texture and helps keep the fish together while cooking.

Cooking the salmon can be tricky without overcooking it. Aim for an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare or 145°F (63°C) if you prefer it well-done. Keep an eye on the salmon around the 10-minute mark, as cooking times might vary depending on the thickness of the fillets. A visual cue to look for is the flesh changing from translucent to a more opaque pink; this indicates that it's nearly done. To avoid dryness, you can tent the salmon with foil for the last few minutes of roasting.

Asparagus: A Flavorful Side

The asparagus is not just a simple side dish; it offers a delightful crunch that complements the tender salmon. When selecting asparagus, look for firm stalks with tightly closed tips, which are indicators of freshness. If the asparagus seems limp, you can revive it by soaking the ends in water for a few hours before cooking. When preparing the asparagus, a light coating of olive oil ensures even roasting and allows the natural sugars to caramelize, enhancing the flavor.

Keep in mind that roasting times can vary based on the thickness of the asparagus. For thinner stalks, 12-15 minutes will suffice, while thicker ones may need closer to 18-20 minutes for optimal tenderness. To add an extra layer of flavor, consider sprinkling a dash of lemon zest or red pepper flakes over the asparagus before serving. This simple addition can elevate the dish and tie in the lemony notes from the salmon.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

2 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Asparagus

1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Marinate the Salmon

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add the salmon fillets and coat well. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Prepare Asparagus

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the trimmed asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Roast

Place the asparagus in the oven and roast for 15 minutes. Add the marinated salmon fillets to the baking sheet for the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Serve

Once cooked, remove from the oven and let rest for a couple of minutes. Serve the salmon with the roasted asparagus alongside.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving if you enjoy a bit of heat.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Healthy Lemon Herb Salmon dish can be partially prepared in advance, making it perfect for meal prep. You can marinate the salmon fillets up to 24 hours ahead, which will infuse deeper flavors. Just make sure to cover them well in the refrigerator. The asparagus can also be prepped by trimming the ends and storing them in a water-filled container, similar to fresh flowers. This will keep them crisp until you're ready to roast them.

If you have leftovers, the salmon can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the refrigerator, while the asparagus is best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated quickly in a hot oven or sauté pan for a few minutes. For a fun twist, try flaking leftover salmon into salads or grain bowls for lunch the next day.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider serving this salmon and asparagus with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or a fresh green salad. The lightness of these sides complements the flavors without overpowering the dish. If you're looking to enhance the presentation, drizzle a bit of balsamic reduction over the asparagus when plating; it adds a beautiful color contrast and a hint of sweetness that matches wonderfully with the salmon.

Additionally, feel free to swap out the asparagus for seasonal vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or green beans. They all roast well and can be seasoned similarly, giving you flexibility with your meal while retaining that delicious herby lemon flavor profile that makes this dish so appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but be sure to thaw it completely before marinating.

→ What can I substitute for asparagus?

You can replace asparagus with green beans or broccoli, following similar roasting guidelines.

→ How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

While it's best served fresh, you can marinate the salmon ahead of time and roast the asparagus right before serving.