Description

This Lemon Pepper Salmon recipe offers a bright, flavorful, and healthy meal option featuring tender salmon fillets baked with a zesty lemon pepper marinade. Paired with optional garlic Parmesan roasted asparagus, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The salmon remains moist and flaky, while the asparagus adds a cheesy, garlicky complement, making it both delicious and nutritious.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
¾ teaspoon salt
1 garlic clove (minced)
Lemon slices for garnish

For the Optional Garlic Parmesan Asparagus

1 bunch asparagus (trimmed)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 garlic clove (minced)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
Prepare Lemon Pepper Mixture: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, ¾ teaspoon salt, and 1 minced garlic clove. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
Season Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the lemon pepper mixture evenly over each fillet to ensure maximum flavor infusion. Top each with lemon slices for an extra citrus aroma.
Bake the Salmon: Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork. Baking time may vary slightly based on thickness of the fillets.
Prepare Asparagus (Optional): On a separate baking sheet, toss the trimmed asparagus with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 minced garlic clove, salt, and pepper to taste. Place it in the oven alongside the salmon.
Roast Asparagus: Roast the asparagus for 10 to 12 minutes until tender but still crisp.
Add Parmesan and Serve: Immediately after roasting, sprinkle the asparagus with 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese. Serve the garlic Parmesan asparagus warm alongside the baked lemon pepper salmon for a complete meal.

Notes

You can grill the salmon instead of baking to add a smoky flavor profile.
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the asparagus before roasting.
This dish pairs excellently with rice, quinoa, or a fresh light salad for a balanced meal.