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Lemon Butter Salmon Dinner: A Quick and Delicious Recipe for Any Night

This Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon with Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes is a quick, healthy dish featuring flaky salmon fillets paired with vibrant vegetables, all coated in a zesty lemon butter sauce. Ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions!

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 cup asparagus, trimmed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  3. In a small bowl, combine lemon zest and juice. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then add minced garlic and thyme, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, simmer for another minute, then remove from heat.
  4. Wash and trim the asparagus, cutting off tough ends, and halve the cherry tomatoes.
  5. In a large bowl, toss asparagus and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the salmon fillets in the center and arrange the asparagus and cherry tomatoes around them.
  7. Generously drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the salmon and vegetables.
  8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, and the vegetables are tender yet crisp.
  9. Remove from the oven and sprinkle fresh parsley over the top.
  10. Serve the salmon with the roasted asparagus and cherry tomatoes, drizzling any remaining lemon butter sauce over the top. Enjoy with rice or quinoa if desired.

Notes

  • Opt for wild-caught salmon for better flavor and texture.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  • Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference.
  • Prepare the lemon butter sauce and season the salmon and vegetables ahead of time for a quick meal.
  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes