Thank you so much for being here! I’m thrilled to share this one because it’s one of my absolute favorite kinds of dinners—fast, fresh, and full of flavor. This 20-Minute Garlic Butter Salmon & Asparagus is exactly what weeknight dreams are made of: juicy, tender salmon fillets seared to perfection, paired with crisp-tender asparagus and a simple but heavenly garlic butter sauce.
If you’re looking for a meal that feels special but takes practically no time (and just one pan!) to make, this is it. Don’t forget—you can subscribe below to get more quick, healthy dinner recipes straight to your inbox!
What Is Garlic Butter Salmon & Asparagus?
This dish is a one-skillet wonder where salmon fillets and fresh asparagus are seared and finished in a garlic butter lemon sauce. It’s a meal that’s light yet rich, simple yet packed with flavor. The salmon is perfectly flaky with crispy edges, and the asparagus adds a fresh, bright crunch that balances out the richness.
All it takes is 20 minutes, a few basic ingredients, and you’ve got a restaurant-quality meal at home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s a lot to love about this speedy skillet meal:
- ✅ Ready in just 20 minutes
- ✅ One pan = easy cleanup
- ✅ Packed with protein, omega-3s, and fiber
- ✅ Perfect for weeknights and fancy enough for date nights
- ✅ Low-carb, gluten-free, and naturally healthy
What Does It Taste Like?
The salmon is buttery, flaky, and savory with a bright hint of lemon, while the asparagus brings a tender, fresh crunch. The garlic butter sauce ties everything together with a rich, silky finish that’s both decadent and light, making each bite irresistible.
Benefits of This Salmon and Asparagus Skillet
- High-protein and omega-3 rich – thanks to the salmon
- Low in carbs – perfect for keto, paleo, or low-carb lifestyles
- Full of vitamins – asparagus provides vitamin K, C, and fiber
- One-pan cooking – minimal cleanup, maximum flavor
- Flexible serving options – pair it with rice, quinoa, or a salad
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet (preferably non-stick or cast iron)
- Tongs or spatula
- Zester (for the lemon)
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Ingredient Substitutions & Additions
Substitutions:
- Butter → Use ghee for a paleo version
- Olive oil → Avocado oil or grapeseed oil
- Asparagus → Green beans, broccoli, or zucchini if asparagus isn’t in season
Additions:
- Chili flakes for a little heat
- Capers stirred into the sauce for a briny kick
- Sliced almonds sprinkled over the top for crunch
- Parmesan cheese grated over asparagus for extra flavor
How to Make 20-Minute Garlic Butter Salmon & Asparagus
Step 1: Preheat the Pan
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Season the Ingredients
Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
Season the asparagus with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 3: Cook the Asparagus
Add the asparagus to the hot skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are tender and slightly charred.
Remove the asparagus from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Salmon
In the same skillet, add butter. Once melted, add the salmon fillets, skin-side down.
Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, until the salmon is golden, cooked through, and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
During the last minute of cooking, add minced garlic to the pan. Stir and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add lemon juice and swirl the garlic butter sauce around the salmon.
Step 6: Plate and Serve
Return the asparagus to the pan, toss in the butter sauce briefly, and plate everything together.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Serve hot and get ready for compliments!
What to Serve With Garlic Butter Salmon & Asparagus
- Steamed rice or quinoa for a heartier meal
- Mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash
- A crisp green salad
- Garlic bread for soaking up the extra sauce
- Roasted sweet potatoes for a colorful plate
Tips for Success
- Pat the salmon dry before seasoning for a better sear.
- Don’t overcook the salmon—it should flake easily but still be moist.
- Use medium-high heat to get that delicious crispy edge on the salmon skin.
- Zest the lemon before juicing—it’s much easier!
Time & Yield
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet + asparagus
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
- Freezing not recommended—salmon can dry out once thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Just make sure it’s completely thawed and patted dry before cooking for best results.
How do I know when salmon is done?
It should flake easily with a fork and be opaque all the way through. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is ideal.
Can I bake instead of pan-searing?
Definitely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12–15 minutes, then finish with the garlic butter sauce on the stove.
What other vegetables can I use?
Broccoli, zucchini, or snap peas also work wonderfully with this garlic butter sauce!
Final Thoughts: Fast, Flavorful, and Packed with Goodness
This 20-Minute Garlic Butter Salmon & Asparagus is a perfect example of how simple ingredients and a little love in the pan can create a meal that feels special without any stress. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Looking for more one-skillet wonders? Check out my No-Bake Pistachio or Brownie Batter Overnight Oats —both are quick, easy, and loaded with flavor!
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