Are you looking for delicious and healthy dinner ideas that won't derail your Weight Watchers journey? Look no further! This Lemon Herb Baked Salmon with Asparagus is a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful recipe that's perfect for a weeknight meal. Packed with protein and nutrients, it's a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies your cravings without compromising your healthy eating goals. This recipe is a perfect example of how easy and delicious healthy eating can be. It's one of the best recipes for those following a healthy diet plan, making it a staple in my quick dinner ideas repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 2 (4-6 ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (dill, parsley, thyme – or a mix!), chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This is a simple yet crucial step for homemade cooking success.
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Prepare the asparagus: Toss the asparagus with 1 teaspoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it in a single layer on one side of the prepared baking sheet.
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Prepare the salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the other side of the baking sheet. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil. Top each fillet with lemon slices, fresh herbs, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper.
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Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The asparagus should be tender-crisp. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets.
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Serve: Serve immediately. This delicious dish is perfect on its own or with a side of quinoa or brown rice for a more complete meal.
Cooking Tips for Weight Watchers Success:
- Choose wild-caught salmon: Wild-caught salmon generally has a higher nutritional value compared to farmed salmon.
- Don't overcook the salmon: Overcooked salmon will be dry and less flavorful. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini to the baking sheet.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, oregano, or chives.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy and delicious meals. It's quick, easy, and adaptable to your preferences, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. This simple recipe showcases how easy it is to create homemade cooking that's both delicious and aligned with your healthy eating goals. Remember to always check your specific Weight Watchers points values based on your plan. Enjoy!