Are you looking for delicious and healthy dinner ideas that won't take all night to prepare? Then look no further! This Lemon Herb Roasted Salmon with Asparagus is a perfect example of a quick, easy recipe that's packed with flavor and goodness for your heart. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and is ideal for busy weeknights. It's a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for a healthy dinner or a light and satisfying lunch. Let's dive into this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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 step that makes a big difference!
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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. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, rosemary, and thyme.
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Add lemon slices: Arrange the lemon slices over and around the salmon and asparagus. The lemon adds a bright, fresh flavor and beautiful color to the dish.
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Roast: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the asparagus is tender-crisp. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets.
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Serve: Serve immediately. This dish is delightful on its own, or you can pair it with a side of quinoa or a simple salad for a complete and healthy meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Salmon:
- Don't overcook the salmon! Overcooked salmon will be dry and tough. It's better to slightly undercook it than overcook it.
- Use fresh herbs whenever possible. Fresh herbs have a brighter, more intense flavor than dried herbs.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste. Feel free to add more or less of any seasoning to suit your preferences.
- For extra flavor, marinate the salmon for 30 minutes before cooking.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini to the baking sheet.
- Different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like dill, parsley, or oregano.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35 grams
- Fat: 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 5-10 grams
This delicious and healthy Lemon Herb Roasted Salmon with Asparagus is a perfect example of a quick dinner idea that’s both good for you and tastes amazing. It's a great way to enjoy homemade cooking without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy this easy recipe and explore more delicious and heart-healthy options from our recipe book!