Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon with Asparagus: A Perfectly Balanced Meal

Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon with Asparagus is the ideal dish when you want a light, flavorful, and healthy meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste. This recipe combines the tender, flaky goodness of salmon with the fresh, savory flavors of lemon and herbs, creating a vibrant and nutritious meal. Paired with perfectly grilled asparagus, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats that promote overall well-being.

In this article, we will walk you through the process of making Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon with Asparagus, from the ingredients and instructions to advanced cooking techniques, storage tips, and dietary adaptations. Whether you’re preparing this meal for a family dinner, a special occasion, or meal prep for the week, you’ll love how easy and satisfying it is to make.

For more tips on healthy cooking or how to get the best out of your salmon, check out these resources:

• Health Benefits of Salmon: A Heart-Healthy Superfood
• Grilling Techniques for Perfect Vegetables Every Time

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon with Asparagus: A Healthy, Flavorful Meal

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• Author: Jennifer Mitchell
• Total Time: 20-30 minutes (including marination time)
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon with Asparagus is a light, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal. The salmon is marinated in a zesty lemon herb mixture and grilled to perfection, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the fish moist and tender inside. Paired with perfectly grilled asparagus, this dish is a delicious, well-balanced meal that’s quick to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors.

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Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• Salmon Fillets (skin-on or skinless): 4 pieces (about 6 ounces each)
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Lemon (Juiced and Zested): 1 lemon
• Garlic (Minced): 2 cloves
• Fresh Dill (Chopped): 1 tablespoon (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
• Fresh Parsley (Chopped): 1 tablespoon
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Honey (optional, for sweetness): 1 teaspoon

For the Asparagus:

• Asparagus Spears: 1 bunch (about 12-15 spears)
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
• Lemon Zest: 1 teaspoon (for garnish, optional)

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Instructions

• Marinate the salmon:
  In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped dill, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and honey (if using). Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour the marinade over the fish. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.

• Prepare the asparagus:
  While the salmon is marinating, prepare the asparagus. Trim the woody ends by snapping off the tough bottoms. Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

• Preheat the grill:
  Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill, ensure it’s clean and lightly oiled to prevent the fish from sticking.

• Grill the salmon:
  Remove the salmon from the marinade and place it on the grill, skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets). Grill the salmon for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

• Grill the asparagus:
  Place the seasoned asparagus on the grill alongside the salmon. Grill the asparagus for about 4-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the spears are tender and have grill marks. You can also cook the asparagus in a grill pan if you prefer.

• Serve:
  Once the salmon and asparagus are grilled, transfer them to plates. Garnish the salmon with fresh parsley or dill and additional lemon zest, if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Grill Marks: For perfect grill marks on the salmon and asparagus, make sure your grill is properly preheated and avoid moving the food too much once it’s placed on the grill.
• Side Dish Ideas: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• Cooking Method: If you don’t have a grill, you can easily cook the salmon in a grill pan or bake it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes. For the asparagus, roasting in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes also works well.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes (excluding marination time)
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes (grilling time)
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilled
• Cuisine: Mediterranean, American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with 4-5 asparagus spears
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon with Asparagus Recipe

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade for the Salmon:
   • In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
   • Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or ziplock bag and pour the marinade over the salmon. Seal the dish or bag and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes to let the flavors infuse.
2. Preheat the Grill:
   • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F).
   • While the grill is heating, prepare the asparagus.
3. Prepare the Asparagus:
   • Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
   • Place the asparagus on the grill and cook for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and lightly charred. Remove from the grill and set aside.
4. Grill the Salmon:
   • Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
   • Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F.
5. Serve:
   • Plate the grilled salmon and asparagus. Optionally, garnish with extra fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Advanced Techniques

Grilling the Salmon to Perfection

To achieve the perfect grilled salmon, it’s essential to prevent the fish from sticking to the grill. Here are a few techniques to ensure success:

• Oil the Grill Grates: Use a paper towel dipped in oil and tongs to rub the grill grates before cooking. This will help prevent the salmon from sticking.
• Use a Fish Basket: If you’re worried about the fillets falling apart, use a fish grilling basket. This ensures even cooking and makes flipping the fish easier.
• Do Not Overcook: Salmon cooks quickly, so monitor it closely. You want the salmon to reach an internal temperature of 145°F. For the best results, cook it to medium-rare or medium, as it will continue to cook after removing it from the grill.

Grilled Asparagus Tips

• Even Coating: Ensure that the asparagus is evenly coated with olive oil, as this helps prevent it from drying out or sticking to the grill.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Grill the asparagus in a single layer to ensure it cooks evenly. If necessary, cook it in batches.
• Perfect Charring: For ideal grill marks and flavor, turn the asparagus every minute or so. The goal is to have tender asparagus with a bit of char without it becoming too soft or overcooked.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

How to Store Leftover Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon with Asparagus

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salmon and asparagus should be refrigerated separately for the best texture when reheating.

How to Reheat Grilled Salmon and Asparagus

To reheat, it’s best to use the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), and place the salmon and asparagus on a baking sheet. Cover with aluminum foil and heat for 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, but this may result in a less desirable texture.

Can You Freeze Grilled Salmon and Asparagus?

Yes, you can freeze both the salmon and asparagus for up to 2 months. Wrap each item in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

Gluten-Free Option

This dish is naturally gluten-free as it contains no grains, soy sauce, or any other gluten-containing ingredients. It’s a great choice for anyone following a gluten-free diet.

Dairy-Free Option

This recipe is already dairy-free since it doesn’t use butter or cream. If you want to add extra richness, consider using a dairy-free butter substitute or adding a dollop of guacamole on the side.

Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly

Both the grilled salmon and asparagus are naturally low in carbohydrates, making this dish keto-friendly. It’s a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet. You can also serve it with a side of cauliflower rice for a more filling meal that stays within your carb limits.

Vegetarian Option

For a vegetarian version, substitute the salmon with a plant-based protein, such as grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu. Marinate the mushrooms or tofu the same way as the salmon and grill them for a similar texture and flavor profile.

FAQs About The Recipe

Can I Use Frozen Salmon?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before marinating and grilling. Quick thawing in the microwave is not recommended as it can affect the texture.

What Other Vegetables Can I Grill with the Salmon?

You can add other vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to the grill. Simply drizzle them with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill them alongside the asparagus.

Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?

Yes! If you don’t have access to a grill, you can bake the salmon in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the salmon on a lined baking sheet for 12-15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork. You can also roast the asparagus at the same time for a complete meal.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

While this dish is best served fresh off the grill, you can marinate the salmon ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The asparagus can be grilled and stored separately for a day as well.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon with Asparagus is the perfect combination of healthy, vibrant, and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something a little more special for guests, this dish fits the bill. The refreshing lemon herb marinade complements the rich, tender salmon, while the asparagus adds the perfect amount of crunch and flavor.

With its health benefits and ease of preparation, this recipe is one you’ll want to add to your regular dinner rotation. It’s quick to make, simple to clean up, and a meal everyone can enjoy!