Baked Salmon with Asparagus

 Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Baked Salmon with Asparagus — a healthy, nutrient-packed meal that’s perfect for any day of the week!

Baked Salmon with Asparagus

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh if preferred)
• 1 tsp dried rosemary (or fresh)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the Salmon:

   • Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
   • Drizzle 1 tbsp of olive oil over the salmon fillets. Season with salt, pepper, and half of the dried thyme and rosemary.
   • Place a couple of lemon slices on top of each fillet for added flavor.

3. Prepare the Asparagus:

   • Trim the tough ends off the asparagus by gently snapping them where they naturally break (or cut about 1-2 inches from the bottom).
   • Place the asparagus around the salmon on the baking sheet.
   • Drizzle the asparagus with the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, garlic, and the rest of the dried thyme and rosemary. Toss to coat the asparagus evenly.

4. Bake:

   • Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through. The asparagus should be tender yet still slightly crisp.
   • If you prefer a crispier texture, you can broil the salmon and asparagus for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

5. Serve:

   • Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional lemon wedges, if desired.

6. Enjoy:

   • Serve the baked salmon fillets with the roasted asparagus for a healthy, flavorful meal!

Nutritional Benefits:

• Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health and reducing inflammation.
• Asparagus is high in fiber, vitamins A, C, E, and K, and folate, making it an excellent vegetable for overall health.
• Olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, and the garlic adds extra antioxidants and flavor.

This meal is not only quick and easy but also packed with nutrients, making it perfect for a healthy dinner or lunch. Enjoy!