Herbed Butter Salmon and Asparagus 🍣🥬

This delightful recipe combines tender salmon fillets with bright, crisp asparagus, all smothered in a luscious herbed butter. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for a dinner party! The combination of flavors will transport your taste buds to a sunlit seaside restaurant. Pair it with a glass of white wine for an elevated experience! 🍷✨

Ingredients

For the salmon and asparagus

• 4 salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz each)
• 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Lemon wedges, for serving

For the herbed butter

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the herbed butter: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped dill, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until well combined and set aside.

   💡 You can make the herbed butter ahead of time! Simply store it in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage. Just soften it again before use.

3. Season the salmon and asparagus: On a large baking sheet, place the salmon fillets and the trimmed asparagus. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.

4. Add herbed butter: Dollop half of the herbed butter onto the salmon fillets, then spread the remaining butter over the asparagus. Toss the asparagus gently to coat.

   🌿 Feel free to experiment with other herbs like tarragon or chives for a different flavor profile!

5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the asparagus is tender.

6. Serve: Plate the salmon and asparagus, garnishing with extra herbs if desired. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and enjoy!

   🍋 The lemon juice adds a bright freshness that perfectly complements the richness of the salmon and butter!

Variations

• Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy without worry! Just ensure your mustard is gluten-free.
• Vegetarian: Substitute the salmon with a thick slice of hearty vegetable like eggplant or portobello mushrooms, and adjust the cooking time as necessary.
• Spicy: Add a dash of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the herbed butter for an extra kick.
• Grilling: Take it outdoors by grilling the salmon and asparagus instead of baking. Just wrap the asparagus in foil with the herbed butter and grill for about 8-10 minutes on medium heat.

Enjoy your culinary adventure with this Herbed Butter Salmon and Asparagus dish! It’s a feast for the senses that you won't soon forget! 🍴💖