Skillet Lemon-Butter Salmon Asparagus

Succulent salmon fillets and tender asparagus are seared in a zesty lemon-butter sauce for a bright, cozy dinner ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknights and bursting with fresh citrus flavor.

I first served this to my family on a busy weeknight and everyone loved how tender the salmon was and the vibrant lemon sauce was a perfect match.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets: about 6 oz each, skin-on or skinless
• 1 lb (450 g) fresh asparagus: trimmed
• 1 lemon: zested and juiced
• 2 garlic cloves: minced
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp sea salt: plus more to taste
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes: optional
• Lemon slices: for serving
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley: chopped

Instructions

Bake lasagna, casseroles, and roasted dishes evenly, then serve straight from oven to table.

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Step 1:

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2:

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 3:

Add asparagus and sauté for 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally, until just tender. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Remove asparagus to a plate and cover to keep warm.

Step 4:

Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Place salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on) and cook for 3–4 minutes without moving, until the skin is crispy and the bottom is golden.

Step 5:

Flip the salmon and add remaining butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 2–3 minutes, spooning the melted lemon-butter over the top as it cooks.

Step 6:

Pour in lemon juice and simmer for 1–2 minutes, until the salmon is just cooked through and the sauce is glossy.

Step 7:

Return asparagus to the skillet, nestling around the salmon. Warm through for 1 minute.

Step 8:

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices.

Bake lasagna, casseroles, and roasted dishes evenly, then serve straight from oven to table.

Check price on Amazon

Bake lasagna, casseroles, and roasted dishes evenly, then serve straight from oven to table.

Check price on Amazon

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This recipe quickly became a family favorite and is often requested for Sunday dinners and special occasions.

Substitutions

Try swapping asparagus with other green vegetables like broccolini or green beans to suit your taste and availability.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice quinoa or crusty bread to soak up the lemon-butter sauce.

Nutritional Information

Each serving contains approximately 380 calories 23 g of fat 7 g of carbohydrates and 35 g of protein.

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Slow cook soups, stews, roasts, and casseroles effortlessly for comforting meals with rich, developed flavors.

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A bright and satisfying meal that comes together quickly and always impresses.

Questions & Answers

→ What type of salmon works best?

Both skin-on and skinless salmon fillets work well; skin-on provides a crispy texture when seared.

→ Can I substitute asparagus with other vegetables?

Yes, green beans or broccolini can be used as alternatives with similar cooking times.

→ How do I prevent the salmon from sticking to the skillet?

Ensure the pan is hot with enough oil and butter before placing the salmon to help create a natural non-stick surface.

→ Is it possible to make a dairy-free version?

Yes, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative to keep the lemon-butter sauce flavorful.

→ What sides complement this dish well?

Rice, quinoa, or crusty bread pair nicely to soak up the zesty lemon-butter sauce.