Garlic Butter Salmon with Asparagus (Easy Skillet Dinner)

Prep Time: 10 minutes   |   Cook Time: 15 minutes   |   Total Time: 25 minutes   |   Servings: 4

Introduction

Garlic butter salmon is the ultimate quick and flavorful dinner, and this easy skillet version with asparagus makes it even better. Tender salmon fillets are seared until golden on the outside and flaky inside, then finished in a rich garlic butter sauce that coats every bite. Fresh asparagus cooks right in the same pan, soaking up the savory juices for a perfectly balanced meal. This one-skillet recipe is ideal for busy weeknights but elegant enough for guests. For best results, cook the salmon skin-side down first and avoid overcooking to keep it moist and tender.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each / 170 g each)
• 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed (450 g)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (42 g)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (15 ml)
• 1 teaspoon salt (6 g)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (2 g)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if using.
2. Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and heat until shimmering.
3. Sear the salmon: Place salmon skin-side down in the hot skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes without moving until the skin is crisp and golden. Flip carefully and cook another 2–3 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 125–130°F (52–54°C) for medium.
4. Remove and rest: Transfer salmon to a plate and set aside while you cook the asparagus.
5. Sauté the asparagus: In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Once fragrant, add asparagus and sauté for 3–4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
6. Finish the sauce: Stir in lemon juice and spoon the garlic butter over the asparagus. Return salmon to the pan briefly to coat with sauce.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately while warm, spooning extra garlic butter over the salmon.

FAQs

Q1: How do I know when salmon is done?
The flesh should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque. Avoid overcooking to maintain moisture.

Q2: Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before cooking for best searing results.

Q3: Can I make garlic butter salmon ahead of time?
Salmon is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored for up to 2 days and gently reheated in a skillet.

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