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Easy Crispy Sheet Pan Salmon and Asparagus Recipe for Perfect Dinner

crispy sheet pan salmon and asparagus - featured image

A quick and easy sheet pan recipe featuring crispy skin salmon and roasted asparagus, perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skin-on salmon fillets (6 oz / 170 g each), wild-caught recommended
  • 1 bunch asparagus (about 1 lb / 450 g), trimmed
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, zest and juice
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Rinse and trim the tough ends off about 1 lb (450 g) of asparagus. Pat dry with a kitchen towel.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and 3 minced garlic cloves. Toss asparagus until well coated.
  4. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the asparagus in a single layer on one side of the pan.
  5. Pat 4 skin-on salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika. Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over the salmon and rub it in gently.
  6. Place salmon fillets skin-side down on the other side of the pan, leaving space between each piece.
  7. Sprinkle the zest of 1 lemon over salmon and asparagus, then squeeze the juice evenly across everything.
  8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until asparagus is tender and slightly charred and salmon skin is crispy.
  9. Check doneness: salmon should flake easily and reach an internal temperature of 125-130°F (52-54°C). Broil for 1-2 minutes if extra crispness is desired, watching closely to avoid burning.
  10. Remove from oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh dill or parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
  11. Let the salmon rest for 2 minutes before serving to lock in juices.

Notes

Pat salmon skin dry to ensure crispiness. High heat roasting at 425°F is key. Broil briefly at the end for extra crisp skin if desired. Avoid overcrowding the pan for even cooking. Let salmon rest 2 minutes before serving. Toss asparagus halfway through roasting for even char if preferred.

Nutrition

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