Perfectly Balanced Grilled Salmon with Asparagus

Keyword: grilled salmon with asparagus

Grilled salmon with asparagus is a delightful and nutritious meal that combines the richness of poached fish with the crispness of fresh vegetables. This simple yet elegant dish provides a balance of protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a satisfying and flavorful meal without compromising on health.

The cooking time for this recipe is approximately 25 minutes, including preparation and grilling. The yield is enough for four servings, which makes it ideal for a light dinner or as part of a balanced lunch menu.

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon capers (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Preheat your grill to medium heat. While the grill is heating up, prepare the salmon fillets by lightly rubbing them with olive oil and seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Cut the lemon in half and squeeze a little of it over each side of the salmon.
In another small bowl, mix together minced garlic, Dijon mustard, capers if using, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Set this marinade aside for the asparagus.
When the grill is ready, place the prepared asparagus on one side of the grill. Grill the asparagus until it turns a vibrant green color with slightly charred edges, approximately 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Remove from the grill and set aside.
Next, add the salmon fillets directly onto the hot grill grates. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. You might want to check the doneness by inserting an instant-read thermometer into the center of one of the fillets – it should read around 145°F.
While the salmon is grilling, brush the asparagus pieces generously with the garlic mustard mixture. Grill until the asparagus is tender yet still crisp and nicely charred in spots, about 3 minutes more.
To serve, plate each portion of grilled salmon along with a side of perfectly seasoned grilled asparagus spears. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for an extra burst of freshness. Serve immediately while the fish is still warm from the grill.

Additional Tips

To enhance this dish, consider pairing it with some quinoa or steamed broccoli to complete your meal. Additionally, you could serve a side of lemon aioli for those who love a bit more zing and creaminess in their sauce.

For added flavor variation, try using different herbs like dill, chives, or thyme instead of parsley. You can also experiment with other marinades such as honey mustard, teriyaki, or even lemon butter for the salmon to bring out unique flavors.

Nutritional Information

This recipe provides a healthy balance of essential nutrients. Each serving offers approximately 350 calories, 28 grams of protein, and 17 grams of fat per person. It also contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids beneficial for heart health as well as vitamins A and C from the asparagus.

Conclusion

Grilled salmon with asparagus is a versatile dish that can be prepared easily at home, offering both taste satisfaction and nutritional benefits. Its simplicity in preparation does not mean it lacks complexity; rather, it promises to bring fresh flavors into your kitchen. Whether you're hosting friends or simply enjoying a relaxing evening meal on your own, this dish will delight all who partake.