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Easy Healthy Salmon and Asparagus - A Simple, Fresh Weeknight Dinner

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 5–6 ounces each), skin-on or skinless
  • 1 pound asparagus, trimmed (snap off woody ends)
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (plus extra lemon wedges for serving)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill or parsley (optional but great)
  • Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment for easy cleanup.
  2. Season the asparagus: Place trimmed asparagus on the pan. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt and a pinch of pepper. Toss and spread into a single layer along the sides of the pan.
  3. Make the salmon glaze: In a small bowl, mix remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, Dijon, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and paprika. Stir until smooth.
  4. Add the salmon: Pat salmon dry with paper towels. Set fillets in the center of the pan, leaving a little space between each. Brush the glaze generously over the tops and sides.
  5. Roast: Bake for 9–12 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. Thicker pieces may need up to 14 minutes. Asparagus should be crisp-tender with lightly browned tips.
  6. Check for doneness: Salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and looks slightly translucent in the center. For precision, aim for an internal temperature of 125–130°F for moist, medium salmon, or up to 140°F if you prefer it more done.
  7. Finish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh dill or parsley and a few red pepper flakes if you like heat. Serve with lemon wedges. Add a simple side like quinoa, brown rice, or roasted potatoes if you want a more filling meal.