Are you tired of eating the same old, boring meals every week? If you're looking for something healthy and delicious, then you've come to the right place! In this post, we'll show you how to make a mouth-watering Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus recipe that's packed with protein, omega-3s, and flavor. It's the perfect dish for any occasion, whether you're hosting a dinner party or just need a quick and easy meal. So, let's get started!
Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 °F (190.56 °C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet.
- Arrange the asparagus around the salmon.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and olive oil.
- Pour the lemon garlic mixture over the salmon and asparagus.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through, and the asparagus is tender.
This recipe makes 2–4 servings, depending on the size of your salmon fillets and asparagus bunch. The calorie count will vary based on the size of your portions and the specific ingredients used. However, as a general guideline, one serving (based on 4 servings) of this Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus recipe has around 300–400 calories.
Benefits of Salmon and Asparagus
Salmon is one of the healthiest foods you can eat. It's packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for good health. Omega-3s can help reduce inflammation, lower the risk of heart disease, and improve brain function.
Asparagus is another superfood that's loaded with nutrients. It's low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Asparagus is a great source of vitamin K, which is important for bone health, and vitamin C, which supports your immune system.
Tips for Cooking Salmon
Cooking salmon can be intimidating if you're not used to it, but it's actually quite simple. Here are a few tips to help you cook the perfect salmon every time:
- Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the salmon. The internal temperature should reach 145 °F (62.78 °C) to ensure it's fully cooked.
- Don't overcook the salmon. It's better to slightly undercook it than to overcook it, as it will continue to cook once it's removed from the oven.
- If you're cooking skin-on salmon, start by cooking it skin-side down. This will help the skin get crispy and prevent the salmon from sticking to the pan.
Health Benefits of Lemon and Garlic
Lemon and garlic are two ingredients that are commonly used in this recipe. They not only add flavor but also offer some impressive health benefits.
Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which can boost your immune system and support healthy skin. Lemon juice may also help improve digestion and aid in weight loss.
Garlic is known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties, which can help fight off infections. It may also help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
This Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus recipe is delicious as is, but there are a few variations you can try:
- Add some diced tomatoes or sliced bell peppers for a pop of color and extra nutrients.
- Swap out the asparagus for another green vegetable, such as green beans or broccoli.
- Use different herbs or spices to season the salmon, such as dill or paprika.
When it comes to serving this dish, you can pair it with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Brown rice or quinoa
- Roasted sweet potatoes or butternut squash
- Mixed greens or a simple salad
The Bottom Line
This Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus recipe is a healthy and delicious meal that's easy to make. It's packed with protein, omega-3s, and flavor, making it the perfect dish for any occasion. By following our simple instructions and tips, you can cook the perfect salmon every time. So why not give it a try and impress your family and friends with this delicious dish?
Don't forget to share this recipe with others and let us know in the comments how it turned out for you!
References
- “The Health Benefits of Garlic” – https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/265853
- “6 Evidence-Based Health Benefits of Lemons” – https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/6-lemon-health-benefits