Super Simple Creamy Garlic Herb Baked Salmon With Asparagus
I know how hard it can be to get a good meal on the table when you are tired after work. You want something that tastes fancy but actually takes almost no effort to make. That is exactly why I love this baked salmon dish. It gives you a huge amount of protein without keeping you stuck in the kitchen for hours.
Salmon is one of my favorite foods because it is full of healthy fats and clean protein. When you pair it with fresh asparagus, you get a complete meal that feels very light but keeps you full for a long time. If you like this recipe, you might also want to try this Super Simple Lean Turkey And Black Bean Chili on a colder night when you need something extra hearty.
Ingredients Needed
You do not need to go to a special store to find these things. Most of these items are probably already in your fridge or pantry at pezni.
- Two large salmon fillets about six ounces each.
- One bunch of fresh thin asparagus with the woody ends trimmed off.
- Two tablespoons of melted butter or olive oil.
- Three cloves of garlic minced very finely.
- One tablespoon of fresh lemon juice.
- One teaspoon of dried parsley or fresh chopped dill.
- Salt and black pepper to your own taste.
- Thin slices of fresh lemon for the top.
Step By Step Making
1. First, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While that is heating up, get a large baking sheet and cover it with a piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil so the cleanup is easy later.
2. Lay your salmon fillets in the center of the tray. Place your trimmed asparagus stalks all around the salmon in a single layer. Make sure the asparagus is not piled up too much so it cooks evenly.
3. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter or olive oil with the minced garlic, lemon juice, and herbs. Stir this well so everything is combined. This sauce is going to give the fish and the greens a ton of flavor.
4. Pour the garlic herb mixture evenly over the salmon fillets and the asparagus. Use a brush or a spoon to spread it around so everything is coated nicely. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper over everything as well.
5. Place a couple of lemon slices right on top of each salmon piece. This helps keep the fish moist while it bakes in the dry heat of the oven.
6. Put the baking sheet in the oven and let it cook for about 12 to 15 minutes. You will know it is done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the asparagus is tender enough to poke with a knife.
7. Take it out carefully and serve it warm right away. I like to squeeze a little extra fresh lemon juice over everything just before I take the first bite.
Nutritional Value
This meal is excellent if you are trying to reach specific fitness goals. It is very lean but also very satisfying. Here is what you get in one serving.
- Protein: 42 grams
- Calories: 410 calories
- Carbs: 6 grams
Health Benefits
The protein in this salmon is high quality which helps your body repair muscle tissue after you work out. Getting enough protein is essential if you want to keep your metabolism moving fast during the day. Since this dish has almost no sugar and very few carbs, it will not cause your energy to crash later on.
The asparagus adds a good amount of fiber to your diet which helps with digestion. Healthy fats found in salmon are also great for your brain and your heart health. When you eat meals like this regularly, you are giving your body exactly what it needs to perform well without adding a bunch of empty ingredients that do not help you reach your goals. It is a win for your health and a win for your taste buds.
Disclaimer: This recipe information is provided by pezni for general informational purposes only.