Print

Perfect Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon Recipe with Easy Asparagus Side

grilled lemon herb salmon - featured image

A quick and easy grilled salmon recipe featuring a fresh lemon herb marinade paired with perfectly grilled asparagus. This dish offers a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying meal ideal for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz / 170 g each), skin-on
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, preferably extra virgin
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 bunch asparagus (about 1 lb / 450 g), trimmed and tough ends snapped off
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Lemon zest for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
  2. Marinate the salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on a plate or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the fillets, coating each piece well. Let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Do not marinate longer than 30 minutes.
  3. Prep the asparagus: Trim the tough ends off the asparagus and toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  4. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Oil the grates lightly if using a grill.
  5. Grill the asparagus: Place asparagus spears directly on the grill grates or pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until tender and slightly charred. Remove and keep warm.
  6. Grill the salmon: Place salmon fillets skin-side down on the hot grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving. Flip carefully and grill the other side for 3-4 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily and reaches 125°F (52°C) internal temperature.
  7. Rest and serve: Remove salmon from grill and let rest for 2-3 minutes to redistribute juices.
  8. Plate your meal: Arrange grilled salmon alongside asparagus. Garnish with lemon zest or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Pat salmon dry before marinating to ensure crispy skin. Avoid flipping salmon too soon to prevent sticking and tearing. If grilling asparagus alongside salmon, it saves time and adds smoky flavor. For indoor cooking, use a cast iron grill pan. If grilling isn’t an option, bake salmon and asparagus at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes and broil for 1-2 minutes for char.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled salmon, lemon herb salmon, asparagus side, healthy salmon recipe, easy grilled fish, summer dinner, quick salmon recipe