Pan-Seared Salmon with Roasted Asparagus

A delicious paleo-friendly dinner combining perfectly seared salmon with tender-crisp asparagus

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Modern American
Diet: Paleo, Gluten-Free

Equipment Needed

• Large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan
• Baking sheet
• Paper towels
• Fish spatula
• Kitchen tongs
• Instant-read thermometer (optional)

Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 4 (6 oz) wild-caught salmon fillets, skin-on
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 lemons (1 for cooking, 1 for serving)

For the Asparagus

• 2 bunches fresh asparagus (about 2 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Prepare the Asparagus

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F)
2. Wash asparagus and trim woody ends
3. Place on baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil
4. Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper
5. Toss to coat evenly

Cook the Salmon

1. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels
2. Season both sides with salt and pepper
3. Heat avocado oil in skillet over medium-high heat
4. Once pan is hot (about 375°F/190°C), place salmon skin-side up
5. Sear for 4-5 minutes until golden brown
6. Flip carefully and cook for another 3-4 minutes
7. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C)

Roast the Asparagus

1. While salmon cooks, place asparagus in preheated oven
2. Roast for 12-15 minutes until tender-crisp
3. Shake pan halfway through cooking

Serving

1. Plate salmon and asparagus
2. Squeeze fresh lemon over both
3. Serve immediately

Chef’s Tips

• Let salmon come to room temperature before cooking
• Don’t move salmon while searing for perfect crust
• Choose asparagus spears of similar thickness for even cooking

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: 385
• Protein: 34g
• Fat: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 680mg

Suggested Pairings

• Cauliflower rice
• Roasted sweet potatoes
• Fresh herb salad

Variations

• Substitute salmon with another wild-caught fish
• Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley
• Include cherry tomatoes with asparagus