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Easy Crispy Lemon Herb Salmon Recipe with Roasted Asparagus Tips

crispy lemon herb salmon - featured image

A quick and easy recipe featuring crispy-skinned salmon fillets seasoned with fresh lemon and herbs, paired with perfectly roasted asparagus. This dish balances bright citrus flavors with a satisfying texture contrast, ideal for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 skin-on salmon fillets, about 6 ounces (170 grams) each
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
  • Juice and zest of 1 fresh lemon
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bunch asparagus (about 1 pound or 450 grams), trimmed
  • Salt and pepper to taste (kosher salt recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
  • Optional: red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for heat and smoky flavor

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  2. Trim the woody ends off the asparagus. Toss asparagus on a baking sheet with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer.
  3. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast the asparagus for 12-15 minutes, shaking or flipping halfway through, until tips are caramelized and asparagus is tender but still crisp.
  4. In a small bowl, combine lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dill, thyme, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. Stir to make the lemon herb sauce.
  5. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place salmon fillets skin-side down. Press gently with a spatula for 10-15 seconds to prevent curling.
  6. Cook salmon undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until skin is golden and crispy.
  7. Flip salmon and cook for another 2-3 minutes until just cooked through but still moist. If desired, add butter and spoon it over salmon during the last minute for richness.
  8. Plate the roasted asparagus, top with crispy salmon, and drizzle the lemon herb mixture over everything. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pat salmon dry thoroughly to ensure crispy skin. Use medium-high heat but avoid smoking the pan. Press fillets gently when placing skin-side down to prevent curling. Do not overcrowd the pan. Roasted asparagus should remain slightly crisp, not mushy. Butter is optional and can be replaced with plant-based alternatives for dairy-free diets. Leftovers keep well for up to 2 days; reheat gently to maintain crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon recipe, crispy salmon, lemon herb salmon, roasted asparagus, quick dinner, healthy seafood, weeknight meal