Pin it Succulent salmon fillets and tender asparagus are seared in a zesty lemon-butter sauce for a bright, cozy dinner ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknights and bursting with fresh citrus flavor.
This skillet lemon-butter salmon quickly became a family favorite for its simplicity and fresh taste.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets: 4 (about 6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
- Fresh asparagus: 1 lb (450 g), trimmed
- Lemon: 1, zested and juiced
- Garlic cloves: 2, minced
- Unsalted butter: 3 tbsp
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Sea salt: 1/2 tsp plus more to taste
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp freshly ground
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/4 tsp optional
- Lemon slices: for serving
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare salmon:
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Cook asparagus:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add asparagus and saute for 3 4 minutes turning occasionally until just tender. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Remove asparagus to a plate and cover to keep warm.
- Cook salmon skin side:
- Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Place salmon fillets skin side down if using skin on and cook for 3 4 minutes without moving until the skin is crispy and the bottom is golden.
- Flip salmon and add flavors:
- Flip the salmon and add remaining butter minced garlic lemon zest and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for another 2 3 minutes spooning the melted lemon butter over the top as it cooks.
- Simmer with lemon juice:
- Pour in lemon juice and simmer for 1 2 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through and the sauce is glossy.
- Return asparagus:
- Return asparagus to the skillet nestling around the salmon. Warm through for 1 minute.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices.
Pin it This dish always brings everyone to the table fast and satisfied.
Notes
For extra flavor add a splash of white wine to the pan with the lemon juice. Substitute green beans or broccolini for asparagus if desired.
Required Tools
Large skillet Tongs or spatula Zester or grater Measuring spoons Knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains fish and dairy (butter). For dairy free option substitute butter with plant based alternative.
Pin it 
A simple fresh recipe that delivers brightness and comfort for any night of the week.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I get crispy skin on the salmon?
Pat the salmon dry and cook skin-side down in a hot skillet without moving for several minutes to achieve a crispy, golden crust.
- → Can I substitute asparagus with other vegetables?
Yes, green beans or broccolini make excellent alternatives, providing similar texture and flavor to complement the salmon.
- → What is the best way to keep asparagus tender?
Sauté asparagus briefly until just tender, seasoning lightly, and remove from the pan to prevent overcooking before combining with salmon.
- → How does lemon enhance this dish?
Fresh lemon zest and juice brighten the buttery sauce, adding a refreshing citrus note that balances the richness of the salmon.
- → Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative to keep the lemon-butter sauce creamy while avoiding dairy.