One-Pan Lemon Herb Salmon & Asparagus is what you need when the “what’s for dinner?” question rears its head and, for the life of you, you have no energy left. I swear, most nights after work I just want something yummy… but healthy, and honestly, washing a sink full of dishes is the last thing I want. This quick little number hits all the marks. And bonus, if you’re hunting for other easy, crave-worthy meals, check out my post about lemon blueberry pancakes—such a treat, promise you’ll love them.
What You Need to Make This Quick & Easy Salmon Recipe
You don’t need a whole grocery haul for this one. That’s part of why I make it so often! First off, salmon. It doesn’t have to be fancy. The regular filets from my local store taste great once you jazz ’em up. Grab some fresh asparagus, too. I love how it gets kinda crispy on the ends but still has a snap.
Now, don’t skip the fresh lemon. Maybe that sounds obvious, but the squeeze at the end makes the whole thing pop. Little bit of olive oil, salt, cracked black pepper, and a shake of dried herbs (thyme, oregano, or even Italian seasoning if you’ve only got that sitting around). Some people throw in garlic powder–I say, do it if you’re feeling wild. The best part? It all cooks together on one pan, so clean-up is nearly painless.
How to Make The Perfect Summertime Salmon Recipe
If you know me, you know I’m not about complicated steps. Here’s how I get my salmon just right. First thing, preheat that oven to about 400°F—give or take, mine runs a little hot sometimes. While it heats, line your sheet pan with parchment (foil is fine, but parchment doesn’t stick as much). Toss those asparagus spears with a splash of olive oil and slap ‘em around till they’re coated. If they’re thick, I break them in half. Easy.
Line up your salmon filets in the center. Salt, pepper, a dusting of your dried herbs over each piece, then drizzle with a bit more olive oil. Squeeze half a lemon right over the top. Toss everything into the oven and roast it for 12-15 minutes. The asparagus gets that roasted flavor, the salmon flakes apart with a fork, and your kitchen smells like you ordered from a five-star restaurant but in, like, twenty minutes.
Sometimes (not always, I’ll admit) I’ll broil the salmon for the last minute for those crispy, golden edges. Watch it close though, because broiling can go from “yum” to “yikes” pretty fast. Give it a try. You’ll see.
« This recipe is a total weeknight hero! I love that everything’s on one pan—dinner’s ready fast and there’s barely any cleanup. The lemon makes it taste so fresh. Even my kids ask for seconds. » – Danielle P.
Wondering How to Serve This Salmon? Look no Further!
So, picture this: You’ve got your perfect salmon and asparagus on the pan, smelling amazing. Now comes the fun part—making it look like you put in way more effort than you did.
Here’s how I like to serve it up:
- Scoop the salmon right onto a plate with the roasted asparagus beside it.
- Add a wedge of fresh lemon for squeezing (it’s extra, but worth it).
- Maybe sprinkle a little fresh parsley or dill for “oooh!” factor.
- If I’m feeling hungry, I serve with a warm hunk of bread or a small scoop of rice.
Seriously, this meal works for dinner guests or just you, sweatpants, and your favorite show!
You May Also Like
If this recipe is your meal-time spirit animal, then you probably love other bright, zippy flavors too. Try pairing a cozy brunch at home with these lemon blueberry pancakes. They’re sweet, tangy, and super easy—especially if you’ve got leftover lemons (or just crave more citrusy goodness)!
Rate This Recipe
Tried this one out? Was your salmon flaky and perfect, or did you discover a new favorite herb? I love hearing how your version turns out—drop a rating and leave me a note right below! Everything helps other readers (and me!) get a little better in the kitchen.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yep, you sure can! Thaw it in the fridge first so everything cooks evenly.
Can I swap the asparagus for something else?
Oh, for sure. Try green beans or broccoli for a twist. Just keep the pieces bite-sized so they roast up nicely.
Do I need to marinate the salmon first?
Not at all. The lemon juice and herbs add plenty of flavor while it cooks.
How do I know when the salmon’s done?
When it flakes easily with a fork and isn’t see-through in the middle, you’re good!
What about leftovers?
Tuck them in a lunchbox for tomorrow—cold lemon herb salmon over a salad is awesome.
Give This Easy Salmon a Try Tonight!
Alright, that’s the gist—quick, healthy, super flavorful. You don’t need chef training or fancy gear. Just pop it on a pan, roast, and serve! Dinner solved, and your kitchen won’t look like a tornado hit.
If you’re looking to dive even deeper into sheet pan magic, the folks at Sheet Pan Lemon-Herb Salmon with Asparagus – Kalejunkie lay out all sorts of creative spins you can try. Or for those pancake cravings, don’t skip my go-to for lemon blueberry pancakes! Cooking at home should be this easy every night, don’t you think? Give it a shot and let me know how it turns out.
Print
One-Pan Lemon Herb Salmon & Asparagus
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A quick and easy one-pan dinner featuring lemon herb salmon and roasted asparagus, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon
- Salt, to taste
- Cracked black pepper, to taste
- Dried herbs (thyme, oregano, or Italian seasoning)
- Optional: Garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
- Toss asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Arrange the salmon fillets in the center of the pan.
- Season salmon with salt, pepper, dried herbs, and drizzle with olive oil.
- Squeeze half a lemon over the salmon.
- Roast in the oven for 12-15 minutes until salmon flakes easily and asparagus is tender.
- Optionally, broil for the last minute for crispy edges.
Notes
Serve with lemon wedges and optionally garnish with fresh parsley or dill for presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: salmon, asparagus, one-pan, quick dinner, healthy dinner