Name: Keto Salmon & Asparagus
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: PT-484745H57M6S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each); 1 lb asparagus, trimmed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter, melted; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Lemon slices, for garnish; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Keto Salmon & Asparagus dish is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The rich, buttery salmon complements the crisp asparagus, and the zesty lemon adds a refreshing brightness to the dish. It’s a low-carb meal that’s both filling and nutritious, and it’s incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and fresh flavors. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 lb asparagus, trimmed
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon slices, for garnish
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet. Drizzle them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Arrange the trimmed asparagus around the salmon fillets on the baking sheet. Drizzle the asparagus with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the asparagus is tender.
While the salmon and asparagus are baking, prepare the lemon butter sauce by combining the melted butter and lemon juice in a small bowl. Stir well.
Once the salmon and asparagus are done, remove them from the oven. Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the salmon fillets and asparagus.
Garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15-18 minutes
Total time: 20-23 minutes

Variations

Add other vegetables: You can add other low-carb vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or spinach to the baking sheet for extra flavor and nutrients.
Spicy option: For a little heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper on the salmon before baking.
Herb variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, dill, or rosemary to add more depth of flavor to the dish.
Use different fish: If you don’t have salmon, this recipe can easily be adapted to other fish like trout, cod, or halibut.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat the salmon and asparagus in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, though the texture may not be as crisp.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and proper texture.

2. Can I cook the salmon and asparagus on the stovetop instead?

Yes, you can pan-sear the salmon and sauté the asparagus in a skillet. Cook the salmon fillets for 4-5 minutes per side, and sauté the asparagus in olive oil for 4-6 minutes, or until tender.

3. How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

The salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can replace the butter with olive oil or coconut oil for a dairy-free version of this dish.

5. Can I use other herbs in the lemon butter sauce?

Yes, you can use herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill for a different flavor profile in the lemon butter sauce.

6. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other low-carb vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts to the baking sheet to cook alongside the salmon and asparagus.

7. Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for a keto diet as it’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein.

8. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best fresh, you can prepare the salmon and asparagus in advance and reheat it before serving. The lemon butter sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

9. Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes, you can use avocado oil, coconut oil, or any other oil with a high smoke point in place of olive oil.

10. Can I grill the salmon and asparagus instead?

Yes, you can grill both the salmon and asparagus. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, and cook the salmon for about 4-6 minutes per side, while grilling the asparagus for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.

Conclusion

Keto Salmon & Asparagus is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful dish that combines the rich, buttery taste of salmon with the crispness of asparagus. This low-carb meal is perfect for anyone following a keto diet or anyone who simply wants a healthy and satisfying dinner. It’s easy to make, versatile, and packed with healthy fats and protein. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients.