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Quick Crispy Pan-Seared Salmon with Asparagus

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A quick and easy pan-seared salmon recipe with crispy skin paired with tender asparagus, perfect for a healthy and satisfying dinner in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 skin-on salmon fillets (about 6 oz / 170 g each)
  • 1 bunch asparagus spears, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt to taste (kosher salt recommended)
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Remove salmon from the fridge about 10 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature. Pat the fillets dry thoroughly with paper towels. Trim the woody ends off the asparagus and rinse under cold water.
  2. Lightly salt and pepper both sides of the salmon, especially the skin side.
  3. Place skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  4. Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the pan gently. Press down lightly with a spatula or spoon for 15 seconds to avoid curling. Cook without moving for 4-5 minutes until skin is golden and crisp.
  5. Flip salmon carefully and add butter and minced garlic to the pan. Spoon melted butter over salmon while cooking for another 1-2 minutes until cooked through but still moist inside.
  6. While salmon cooks on the second side, toss asparagus in the pan around the fillets with remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir occasionally, letting them get tender and slightly charred without burning.
  7. Remove salmon and asparagus from the pan. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if using. Serve immediately.

Notes

Patting the salmon dry is key for crispy skin. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Use medium-high heat for a steady sizzle. Press salmon gently to avoid curling. Add butter and garlic towards the end for flavor and browning. Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet to preserve crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon, pan-seared salmon, asparagus, healthy dinner, quick dinner, crispy salmon skin, easy recipe, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://oracooks.com/quick-crispy-pan-seared-salmon-with-asparagus-easy-healthy-dinner-recipe/