Easy and Flavorful: Pan-Seared Salmon with Dill Butter and Roasted Asparagus

By Dr. Cindy Tanzar

Are you craving a dinner option that’s as simple as it is delicious? If so, you’re in for a treat with this Pan-Seared Salmon with Dill Butter and Roasted Asparagus. This dish embodies everything we love about home-cooked meals: minimal fuss, vibrant flavors, and a healthy touch that’ll leave you satisfied without the guilt!

Why You’ll Love This Pan-Seared Salmon Recipe

Imagine tender, flaky wild-caught salmon fillets kissed by a warm, golden sear, topped with a luxurious dill butter that mingles beautifully with fresh garlic and zesty lemon. Completed with a side of perfectly roasted asparagus, this meal is an experience for the senses. Not only is it a feast for your taste buds, but you can whip it up in about 30 minutes—making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner gatherings.

Servings: Makes 3-4 servings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Asparagus:

• 1 lb. thin to medium stalk asparagus spears
• 2 tsp. avocado oil
• Pink Himalayan salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

For the Salmon:

• 2 (6-oz) wild-caught salmon fillets
• 1/2 Tbs. avocado oil
• Pink Himalayan salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
• 2 Tbs. grass-fed butter (at room temperature)
• 1/4 tsp. dried dill or 3/4 tsp. fresh dill
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced
• Zest of half a lemon, plus lemon wedges for serving

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the Asparagus

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, prep your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or foil—cleaning will be a breeze!
2. Trim the tough ends off the asparagus and arrange the spears on the baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 teaspoons of avocado oil, then season generously with Pink Himalayan salt and freshly ground pepper.
3. Roast the asparagus in the oven for 20-30 minutes. Remember to check and turn the spears halfway through for even cooking, keeping an eye out so they reach just the right level of tenderness.

Cook the Salmon

While your asparagus is roasting, it’s time to focus on that gorgeous salmon!

1. Preheat a medium-sized skillet over medium-high heat. As the pan heats up, season the salmon fillets with Pink Himalayan salt and fresh ground pepper.
2. Make the dill butter: In a small bowl, mix together the room temperature grass-fed butter, dried dill (or fresh), minced garlic, and lemon zest. Set this lovely mixture aside.
3. Sear the salmon: Once the skillet is hot, add 1/2 tablespoon of avocado oil. Place the salmon fillets skin-side up in the pan, allowing them to cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes. This will help develop a beautiful, golden-brown crust.
4. After 4-5 minutes, carefully flip the salmon and cook for another 4-5 minutes or until the fish appears opaque and firm to the touch, reaching an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C). Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size of your fillets.

Serve It Up

Now it’s time to bring this masterpiece together!

1. Remove the salmon from the skillet and top each fillet with your delicious dill butter.
2. Squeeze fresh lemon wedges over the salmon for a burst of citrus brightness just before serving.
3. Plate it up! Serve the salmon alongside the velvety roasted asparagus, and there you have it—a stunning and flavorful dish that will surely impress.

Conclusion

This Pan-Seared Salmon with Dill Butter and Roasted Asparagus encapsulates culinary simplicity without sacrificing taste. It’s a wonderful way to bring the flavors of the sea and the freshness of vegetables right to your dinner table. So why not indulge yourself and your loved ones with this special meal? You deserve it! Happy cooking, and here’s to delightful evenings filled with great food!