If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy dinner idea, look no further than this Honey Garlic Salmon and Asparagus recipe. It’s packed with flavor and comes together in just under 30 minutes. This dish features tender salmon paired with crisp asparagus, all coated in a sweet and tangy honey garlic sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a meal everyone will love!
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make this Honey Garlic Salmon and Asparagus. Firstly, it’s a healthy choice, rich in omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon and plenty of vitamins from the asparagus. Secondly, it’s simple to prepare—perfect for busy evenings. Finally, the combination of honey and garlic makes for a mouthwatering sauce that enhances the natural flavors of the salmon and veggies, making every bite irresistible.
How to Make Honey Garlic Salmon and Asparagus
Making Honey Garlic Salmon and Asparagus is easy and straightforward. Just follow these simple steps to create a delicious meal that will impress your family or guests.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs Atlantic salmon side (cut into 6 oz. portions, cod, hake, or pollock also work)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- ½ tsp ground cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp ground paprika
- 2 tbsp salted butter (¼ stick)
- 4 cloves minced garlic in oil
- 4 tbsp honey
- 1½ tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 lb. fresh asparagus (trimmed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Directions
- Pat the salmon dry and cut it into 4 (6 oz.) filets. If you have extra, keep it for another meal. Season the fish with salt and pepper to taste, then sprinkle with cayenne pepper and paprika. Set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium/high heat. Add the butter and let it melt.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
- Stir in the honey, lemon juice, and water. Whisk to combine and let it cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbling and slightly reduced.
- Place the salmon in the skillet, skin side down, and baste it in the sauce.
- Add the asparagus around the salmon. Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the salmon on medium heat, covered and skin side down, for 15 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to broil. Uncover the skillet and place it in the oven to broil for 3-5 minutes or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. If your asparagus is thin, you might want to remove it from the skillet before broiling to avoid burning.
How to Serve Honey Garlic Salmon and Asparagus
Serve your Honey Garlic Salmon and Asparagus hot off the skillet. You can present it on a plate with the salmon filets arranged alongside the asparagus. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the top for added flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or quinoa for a complete meal!
How to Store Honey Garlic Salmon and Asparagus
If you have leftovers, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, just put it in the microwave for a quick meal, or gently warm everything in the skillet over low heat.
Tips to Make Honey Garlic Salmon and Asparagus
- Make sure to pat the salmon dry before seasoning; this helps to create a nice crust when cooking.
- For additional flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill before serving.
- If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper to your taste or omit it altogether.
Variations
You can easily customize this recipe by swapping out the protein or the vegetables. Try shrimp instead of salmon or add other vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers. The honey garlic sauce works well with many options!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
2. How do I know when the salmon is done?
You can check the internal temperature with a food thermometer. The salmon is done when it reaches 145°F.
3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the honey garlic sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat it before adding it to the salmon.
Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Honey Garlic Salmon and Asparagus recipe! It’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
Honey Garlic Salmon and Asparagus
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Atlantic salmon side (cut into 6 oz. portions) Cod, hake, or pollock can also work.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper To taste
- 0.5 tsp ground cayenne pepper Adjust according to spice preference.
- 0.5 tsp ground paprika
- 2 tbsp salted butter (¼ stick)
- 4 cloves minced garlic in oil
- 4 tbsp honey
- 1.5 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 lb fresh asparagus (trimmed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the salmon dry and cut it into 4 (6 oz.) filets. Season the fish with salt and pepper to taste, then sprinkle with cayenne pepper and paprika. Set aside.
- Trim the asparagus.
Cooking
- Heat a large skillet over medium/high heat. Add the butter and let it melt.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
- Stir in the honey, lemon juice, and water. Whisk to combine and let it cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbling and slightly reduced.
- Place the salmon in the skillet, skin side down, and baste it in the sauce.
- Add the asparagus around the salmon. Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the salmon on medium heat, covered and skin side down, for 15 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to broil. Uncover the skillet and place it in the oven to broil for 3-5 minutes or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- If your asparagus is thin, you might want to remove it from the skillet before broiling to avoid burning.
