Lemon Herb Baked Salmon with Roasted Asparagus and Quinoa

Need healthy dinners fast? This lemon herb baked salmon with asparagus & quinoa is ready in 35 mins! It's a flavorful, Mediterranean-inspired delight. Get the recipe!

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever feel like you're stuck in a dinner rut? i get it! that's why i'm so excited to share this lemon herb baked salmon recipe – it's one of my favorite healthy dinners ever! it's like a mediterranean vacation on a plate.

Brief Overview

This vibrant dish comes together in under 40 minutes. it brings you all the flavor of a restaurant meal. while it may not have direct historical or cultural significance, it's a celebration of fresh, simple ingredients.

This recipe is incredibly easy and serves two. perfect for a weeknight meal or a fancy date night.

Main Benefits

Salmon is packed with omega-3s and this dish is bursting with nutrients! this recipe is ideal for those who want a quick, delicious, and healthy meal.

The bright lemon and fresh herbs make it something truly special. i promise, even picky eaters will love it! plus, it's pretty enough to impress guests.

Now, let's talk about ingredients.

Alright, let's dive into what you need to make this awesome meal. we're talking about a lemon herb baked salmon with roasted asparagus and quinoa.

It's simpler than it sounds, trust me. think sunshine on a plate.

Ingredients & Equipment

First, let's gather everything. This section breaks down what you need. It also covers how to choose the best stuff. We want this healthy dinners recipe to be a knockout, right?

Main Ingredients

Here's what you'll need, both US and metric.

• Salmon: Two fillets, about 6 ounces/170g each.
• Asparagus: One pound/450g.
• Quinoa: ½ cup/100g dry.
• Olive Oil: For drizzling.
• Lemon: One big juicy one.
• Fresh Parsley: A handful.
• Fresh Dill: Another handful.
• Garlic: One clove, minced.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste.
• Vegetable Broth: One cup/240ml.

For the salmon, look for bright pink flesh. It shouldn't smell too fishy. Fresh asparagus should be firm and snap easily. Honestly, fresh ingredients make all the difference.

Seasoning Notes

Spices are the magic touch. We're going for bright, fresh flavors here.

Lemon and herbs are essential. The combo of parsley and dill is amazing. A little garlic adds depth. For a little kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Don't have fresh herbs? Dried ones work in a pinch. Just use half the amount. You know? Honestly, it's almost as good.

Equipment Needed

You don't need fancy gadgets. This is all stuff you probably already have.

• Baking sheet
• Small mixing bowl
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Citrus zester and juicer (optional but helpful)

No zester? no problem. a fine grater works too. missing a juicer? just squeeze that lemon like you mean it.

You know, it can be the best easy stuffed chicken breast recipes , but it depends on you!.

Thinking about making some awesome healthy low carb dinners ? this salmon and asparagus recipe will blow your mind. it's just a great stuffed chicken breast variation.

If you're into keto quiche , this is the way to go. with this recipe, you'll find many easy stuffed chicken breast ideas and easy stuffed chicken breast recipes .

Get creative and make it your own!

This is a great alternative to the classic low carb dinners if you're bored of chicken. you can even add the herbs to some keto pancakes the next morning! it is a simple way to prepare tasty chicken breast recipes healthy .

Alright, let's dive into this amazing recipe for lemon herb baked salmon! i love a good salmon dinner. it is a key for healthy dinners .

We are pairing it with roasted asparagus and quinoa. it is easier than you think. honestly, it's one of my go-to's when i want something healthy and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Lemon Herb Baked Salmon: Your New Favorite Dinner

This dish is super versatile. it’s got that mediterranean vibe. it's packed with good stuff. we are talking protein, healthy fats, and fiber.

Plus, it only takes about 35 minutes from start to finish. you know? perfect for those busy weeknights! the flavors really pop with the lemon and herbs.

Prep Like a Pro

This is where the magic begins! We are setting ourselves up for success.

• Essential mise en place : Chop your parsley and dill. Mince that garlic. Zest and juice your lemon. Get your quinoa rinsed and ready to go. Honestly, getting everything prepped is half the battle.
• Time-saving organization tips: I like to measure out all my spices and put them in a small bowl. This saves so much time. Another tip: Buy pre-minced garlic if you're really in a rush. I won’t tell anyone.
• Safety reminders: Obviously, wash your hands before you start cooking! And be careful when you are using that knife. We don’t need any ER visits.

Step-by-Step to Deliciousness

Let's get this show on the road! This is where the cooking magic happens!

1. Cook the quinoa. Simmer it for 15 minutes .
2. Preheat your oven to 400° F ( 200° C) . This is key for that perfect bake.
3. Mix olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place on a baking sheet.
5. Place salmon on the same baking sheet. Spoon that yummy lemon-herb mix over it.
6. Bake for 12- 15 minutes . Watch closely!
7. Serve over quinoa! You can also enjoy these super Easy Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipes or Easy Stuffed Chicken Breast .

Pro Tips and Tricks!

Okay, now for the secrets. Let's get to expert advice.

• Don't overcook the salmon! Use a meat thermometer. Aim for 145° F ( 63° C) . Overcooked salmon is a crime!
• Common mistakes: Forgetting to rinse the quinoa. It makes it taste bitter. And don't overcrowd the baking sheet! Give those veggies some space to breathe.
• If you are looking for a similar alternative to Low Carb Dinners , try using cauliflower rice instead of Quinoa for a lighter meal. Another easy alternative for a healthy low carb dinners is to cook the same recipe by replacing salmon to Stuffed Chicken Breasts or Stuffed Chicken Breast .

I hope you love this recipe as much as i do! it's a great way to get your omega-3s and a ton of flavor.

Plus, it's just so easy to make. let me know in the comments if you give it a try! maybe next time we can look at some keto pancakes or a keto quiche .

And if you are looking for chicken breast recipes healthy with similar steps and recipe, you know where to find me.

Alright, let's dive deeper into this lemon herb baked salmon goodness! here are some extra notes to make this dish shine.

This recipe is one of the best healthy dinners , i promise!

Recipe Notes

Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro

Okay, honestly? presentation matters. think restaurant-worthy plating. i usually start with a bed of fluffy quinoa. then, i fan out the roasted asparagus next to it.

The star, that beautiful lemon herb salmon, goes right on top. a little drizzle of extra virgin olive oil? chef's kiss! maybe a lemon wedge on the side? you know, fancy but easy!

Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh

So, you've got leftovers? (lucky you!). pop that salmon and asparagus in an airtight container. it's good in the fridge for up to three days.

Freezing? i wouldn't recommend freezing the cooked salmon, honestly. it changes the texture. but you can freeze uncooked salmon. reheating is best in the oven at 350° f ( 175° c) for about 10 minutes.

That way the fish doesn't get rubbery.

Variations: Let's Get Creative!

Sometimes i'm feeling a bit extra . for a low-carb version, think keto quiche , skip the quinoa and add more veggies! for an awesome experience you can look for easy stuffed chicken breast recipes to add in the party.

This can be one of the easy stuffed chicken breast that you will ever make. to turn into stuffed chicken breasts you can use any of the ingredients.

When i need to get creative and find some chicken breast recipes healthy for my meals this can be the way to go, or you can look for other stuffed chicken breast recipes.

Seasonal ingredient swaps? Oh my gosh, YES! In the summer, use zucchini instead of asparagus. In the fall, try roasting Brussels sprouts.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite

Each serving is packed with about 550 calories. you get 45g of protein, 25g of healthy fats, and 40g of carbs.

Also, 8g of fiber! salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your heart and brain.

The asparagus is loaded with vitamins. i've found that a lot of people like to search for healthy low carb dinners and low carb dinners that can feed their bodies right.

If you want a full keto experience look for the amazing keto pancakes and make it a meal.

See? It's not just tasty; it's actually good for you.

So, there you have it! some extra notes to make this lemon herb baked salmon recipe even better. give it a try, play around with the variations.

Honestly, cooking should be fun, not stressful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this lemon herb baked salmon recipe really one of the healthy dinners I keep hearing about?

Absolutely! This dish is packed with goodness. Salmon is a fantastic source of Omega-3 fatty acids and protein, while asparagus offers fiber and vitamins. Plus, quinoa provides a complete protein source and complex carbohydrates, making this a nutritionally balanced and satisfying meal that's good for your body and soul – a proper 'win-win', if you ask me!

Can I prepare this lemon herb salmon ahead of time for a quick weeknight meal?

You bet! You can prep the lemon herb mixture and even toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. Just remember to bake the salmon fresh for the best flavor and texture. Think of it as your "Blue Peter" moment, getting everything ready so you can just 'bake it' later!

I'm not a fan of asparagus. What other veggies can I roast with the salmon?

No worries, "one man's meat is another man's poison," as they say! Green beans, broccoli florets, or even sliced bell peppers all roast beautifully alongside the salmon. Just make sure to adjust the roasting time slightly depending on the vegetable – you want them tender-crisp, not mushy. A little bit of trial and error is all part of the fun.

How do I avoid overcooking the salmon and ending up with dry, flaky fillets?

Overcooked salmon is a culinary tragedy! The key is to keep a close eye on it. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). It’s always better to slightly undercook it, as it will continue to cook slightly after you take it out of the oven. Remember, patience is a virtue, especially when baking!

Can I freeze leftover baked salmon and quinoa?

While technically you can freeze both, the texture of the salmon might change slightly upon thawing, becoming a bit more delicate. For best results, wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. Quinoa freezes well, too! Aim to use them within 1-2 months for the best quality. Think "Bake Off" leftovers, but for the freezer!

Is there a way to adapt this recipe for a dairy-free or gluten-free diet?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally dairy-free if you don't add any dairy based sauce. To make it gluten-free (if needed), ensure that the vegetable broth you use for the quinoa is certified gluten-free. You can easily enjoy these delicious healthy dinners, regardless of your dietary needs!

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