Baked Salmon with Asparagus

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Baked Salmon with Asparagus is a healthy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests. The salmon is baked to perfection, becoming tender and flaky, while the asparagus remains crisp-tender with a slight char. Lemon and garlic add brightness and depth, while olive oil and herbs bring everything together for a delightful and nutritious meal.

Ingredients:

For the Salmon:

- 4-6 salmon fillets (6 oz each)

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- Juice of 1 lemon

- Zest of 1 lemon

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme

- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Asparagus:

- 1 lb (450g) fresh asparagus, trimmed

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- 1 clove garlic, minced

- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For Garnish:

- Lemon slices

- Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven:

  - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

2. Prepare the Salmon:

   - Place the salmon fillets on one side of the prepared baking sheet.

  - In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano (or thyme), salt, and pepper.

  - Brush this mixture evenly over the salmon fillets, making sure they are well coated. Let the salmon sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors while you prepare the asparagus.

3. Prepare the Asparagus:

   - On the other side of the baking sheet, spread the trimmed asparagus spears in a single layer.

  - Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss the asparagus to coat them evenly in the seasoning.

4. Bake the Salmon and Asparagus:

   - Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the asparagus is tender with a slight crisp.

  - If desired, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes to give the salmon and asparagus a slight char.

5. Serve:

   - Transfer the baked salmon and asparagus to serving plates.

  - Garnish with fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

- Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal

- Fat: 22-26g

 - Saturated Fat: 4-6g

- Protein: 30-35g

- Carbohydrates: 5-8g

 - Sugars: 2-3g

- Fiber: 2-3g

Preparation Time:

- Total Time: 25-30 minutes

- Active Prep Time: 10-15 minutes

- Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Notes:

- Salmon: Wild-caught salmon is often preferred for its rich flavour and higher omega-3 content, but farmed salmon works well too. Ensure the fillets are of even thickness for uniform cooking.

- Asparagus: Trim the woody ends of the asparagus by snapping them off where they naturally break. This ensures you only use the tender parts.

- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like dill, rosemary, or parsley. You can also add a sprinkle of paprika or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

• Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a simple green salad. It’s also great with a glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.

• - Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, though the texture of the asparagus may soften.

Baked Salmon with Asparagus is a simple yet elegant dish that’s both healthy and satisfying. It’s a perfect example of how minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation can result in a meal full of flavour and nutrition.

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