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Easy One-Pan Spring Salmon Recipe with Asparagus and Lemon Caper Butter

one-pan spring salmon recipe - featured image

A quick and easy one-pan salmon recipe featuring tender salmon fillets, crisp-tender asparagus, and a tangy lemon caper butter sauce. Perfect for a fresh, flavorful spring or anytime meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skin-on, boneless salmon fillets (about 6 oz / 170 g each)
  • 1 bunch asparagus (about 1 lb / 450 g), trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 large lemon, zested and juiced, plus wedges for serving
  • 2 tbsp capers, drained
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened and cut into pieces
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Rinse and trim the woody ends of the asparagus, then cut into 2-inch pieces. Pat dry.
  3. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and black pepper on both sides.
  4. Toss asparagus with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large oven-safe skillet or rimmed baking sheet.
  5. Arrange asparagus in a single layer and place salmon fillets skin-side down on top, spacing them out.
  6. Roast in the oven for 12-15 minutes, until salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, and asparagus is tender but still bright green.
  7. While salmon roasts, mix the lemon caper butter: combine softened butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, and capers in a small bowl and stir until smooth.
  8. Remove the pan from the oven and immediately spoon the lemon caper butter over the hot salmon and asparagus.
  9. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
  10. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

For extra crispy skin, sear salmon skin-side down on the stovetop for 2 minutes before roasting. If salmon fillets are thick, add 2-3 minutes to roasting time. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even roasting. Use fresh lemon zest for best flavor. Thaw frozen salmon fully before cooking. Substitute green olives for capers if desired. For dairy-free, replace butter with vegan butter or olive oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon, one-pan, asparagus, lemon caper butter, easy dinner, healthy, spring recipe, quick meal, gluten-free, low-carb