Are you looking for delicious and healthy dinner ideas that won't derail your Weight Watchers journey? Then you've come to the right place! This Lemon Herb Baked Salmon with Asparagus is a perfect example of a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that's surprisingly low in points. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal cleanup, and is ready in under 30 minutes. Get ready to enjoy a healthy and delicious dinner without sacrificing taste!
Ingredients:
- 2 (4-6 ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (dill, parsley, thyme – or a mix!), chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup – a tip every home cook appreciates!
Prep the asparagus: Toss the asparagus with 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it evenly on one side of the prepared baking sheet.
Prepare the salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the other half of the baking sheet. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Top each fillet with lemon slices and sprinkle with the chopped fresh herbs.
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.
Serve: Serve immediately. This dish is perfect on its own or with a side of quinoa or a small salad for a complete and balanced meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Salmon:
- Don't overcook! Overcooked salmon is dry and tough. Start checking for doneness around 12 minutes. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part should register 145°F (63°C).
- Fresh herbs make all the difference! Using fresh herbs adds a vibrant flavor that dried herbs simply can't replicate.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste. Feel free to add more lemon, herbs, or spices to suit your preferences. A dash of garlic powder or red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or zucchini would all be delicious additions to this dish. Simply toss them with the asparagus.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Different herbs: Experiment with different herb combinations. Rosemary and oregano would also be lovely.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
Please note that nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This Lemon Herb Baked Salmon with Asparagus recipe is a simple, healthy, and delicious option for a weeknight dinner. It's a fantastic Weight Watchers-friendly recipe that's both satisfying and good for you. Enjoy! And don't forget to share your culinary creations with us! We'd love to see your pictures. Happy cooking!