If you’re looking for a dish that’s vibrant, healthy, and bursting with fresh flavors, this Lemon Baked Salmon with Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining tender, flaky salmon with bright lemon zest, tender asparagus, and juicy cherry tomatoes, it’s a delightful meal that feels like sunshine on a plate. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to wow anyone you’re sharing it with, making every bite a celebration of freshness and comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential, each playing a key role in building the bright, savory, and slightly tangy profile of this dish. The fresh produce adds vivid color and texture, while the salmon and seasonings come together to create a perfectly balanced meal.
- Salmon fillets (4 pieces, 6 oz each): Choose fresh, firm fillets with or without skin based on your preference for the best texture and flavor.
- Lemon zest (1 tsp): Adds an aromatic citrus pop that wakes up your taste buds.
- Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Infuses the fish and veggies with a bright, tangy freshness.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Provides richness and helps everything roast to perfection without drying out.
- Dijon mustard (1 tsp): Brings a subtle kick and depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with salmon.
- Garlic, grated (2 cloves): Adds a savory warmth that complements both the fish and vegetables.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the dish.
- Pepper (1/4 tsp): A gentle spice to round out the seasoning.
- Asparagus (3 bunches, trimmed): Fresh and crisp, asparagus contributes vibrant green color and a delicate crunch.
- Cherry tomatoes (200g): Bursting with sweetness, they add juiciness and a lovely contrast to the savory fish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle adds a nutty, salty finish right before serving.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Brings a herbaceous freshness and color that brightens the dish.
- Fresh lemon wedges: Optional but perfect for an extra zing on the side.
How to Make Lemon Baked Salmon with Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Salmon
Start by mixing the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, grated garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Coat each salmon fillet generously with this vibrant marinade, letting the flavors soak in. If you have the time, letting it rest for an hour amps up the lemony punch and tenderizes the fish, but even a quick 5-minute soak works wonders.
Step 2: Preheat Your Broiler
Set your broiler to 525°F and position the rack about 8 inches from the heat source. This high-heat setting ensures the salmon gets that perfect golden crust while cooking through quickly, locking in moisture and flavor. Give it about 5 minutes to reach temperature so it’s ready to cook.
Step 3: Arrange the Vegetables and Salmon on the Tray
While the broiler heats up, toss the trimmed asparagus and cherry tomatoes with a drizzle of olive oil plus a pinch of salt and pepper right on a baking tray. Nestle the marinated salmon fillets right alongside the veggies. This setup lets everything cook together harmoniously, absorbing those delicious zesty flavors.
Step 4: Broil Until Perfectly Cooked
Place the tray under the broiler and cook for about 11 minutes. Keep an eye on the salmon to make sure it flakes effortlessly and reaches an internal temperature of 122°F for that silky, tender texture. The asparagus should be tender yet still snap with freshness, and the cherry tomatoes will burst with sweetness.
Step 5: Finish with Garnishes for the Ultimate Touch
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the entire dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a generous handful of chopped parsley. A quick squirt of fresh lemon juice over the top adds that finishing citrus brightness, bringing all the flavors together in one harmonious bite.
How to Serve Lemon Baked Salmon with Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley and grated Parmesan are the stars here, but don’t be shy about adding extra lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their serving. A little extra lemon zest sprinkled over the top can also add a brilliant finishing touch of aroma and color.
Side Dishes
This Lemon Baked Salmon with Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a fluffy quinoa salad, herbed couscous, or a simple garlic butter rice will elevate the meal further. Steamed new potatoes or a crisp green salad also work wonders to complement the flavors without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, consider plating each salmon fillet atop a bed of the roasted asparagus and tomatoes, then drizzling a bit of the pan juices over everything. Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers to impress your guests with a restaurant-quality feel. Serving it family-style on a large platter encourages sharing and adds to the warm, welcoming vibe of the dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover salmon and vegetables store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the salmon moist, drizzle a little olive oil or lemon juice over it before sealing so it stays fresh and flavorful.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the cooked salmon and veggies, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and consume within one month for best quality. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to preserve texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a low oven around 275°F or warm in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to avoid drying out the salmon. Microwaving on a low setting is possible but not ideal, as it can cause the fish to become rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this Lemon Baked Salmon with Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before marinating and baking to ensure the best texture and flavor results.
What other vegetables can I add or substitute?
Green beans, zucchini, or bell peppers work wonderfully as alternatives or additions. Just adjust cooking time slightly depending on the vegetable’s tenderness.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep! The salmon and roasted veggies hold up well in the fridge and can be portioned out for nutritious lunches or dinners throughout the week.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and register about 122°F internal temperature for tender, slightly rare fish. If you prefer it more done, go up to 130°F but beware of overcooking.
Can I make this recipe without the broiler?
You certainly can bake it in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 15-18 minutes, though it won’t have quite the same crisp top as broiling offers.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Baked Salmon with Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe is one of those magical meals that feels both indulgent and nourishing at the same time. Its bright, fresh flavors and simple preparation make it a true go-to whenever you want something easy, healthy, and seriously delicious. I can’t wait for you to try it and watch it become a favorite in your kitchen too!
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Lemon Baked Salmon with Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes (plus optional 1 hour marinating)
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Lemon Baked Salmon recipe features tender salmon fillets marinated in a zesty lemon and garlic mixture, broiled to perfection alongside asparagus and cherry tomatoes for a fresh, healthy, and flavorful meal ready in just 16 minutes.
Ingredients
Salmon Marinade
- 4 pieces salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin optional
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, grated
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
Vegetables
- 3 bunches asparagus, trimmed
- 200g cherry tomatoes
Garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Fresh lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prep: In a small bowl, mix together lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, grated garlic, salt, and pepper to create the marinade. Coat the salmon fillets evenly with this mixture. If time allows, let the salmon marinate for 5 minutes up to an hour to deepen the flavors.
- Setup: Preheat your oven’s broiler to 525°F, positioning the oven rack about 8 inches from the heat source. Allow the broiler to preheat for approximately 5 minutes to reach the optimal temperature.
- Arrange: Toss the trimmed asparagus and cherry tomatoes with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper for seasoning. Place the seasoned vegetables evenly on a baking tray and nestle the marinated salmon fillets alongside them.
- Cook: Broil the salmon and vegetables for about 11 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 122°F for optimal tenderness and moisture.
- Finish: Remove the tray from the oven and immediately garnish the salmon with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh chopped parsley, and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an added citrus burst.
Notes
- For a crispier skin, broil salmon with skin side up.
- Do not overcook the salmon to keep it moist and tender.
- You can substitute asparagus and cherry tomatoes with other vegetables like green beans or bell peppers.
- Make sure to use fresh lemon zest and juice for the best flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon reaches the perfect internal temperature.
