Lemony Brown Butter Salmon and Rosemary Potatoes with Garlic Asparagus Recipe

This Lemony Brown Butter Salmon with Rosemary Potatoes and Garlic Asparagus is the kind of dinner that tastes like it took all afternoon, but it’s ready in under 45 minutes. We’re talking crispy-edged, tender rosemary potatoes, flaky salmon drenched in a golden lemony brown butter sauce, and bright, garlicky asparagus that ties it all together. It’s elegant, balanced, and shockingly easy to pull off on even the busiest weeknight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-Packed Simplicity: Brown butter with lemon is a flavor bomb, especially when it’s poured over salmon. Add rosemary and garlic, and you’ve got a dish that tastes gourmet without the hassle.
• One-Pan Wonder (Almost): The salmon and asparagus can cook together on the same sheet pan, while the potatoes roast nearby—efficient, clean, and easy.
• Healthy Meets Hearty: This dish hits all the marks—omega-3s from salmon, fiber from potatoes, and greens from asparagus. It’s balanced and satisfying.
• Perfect for All Seasons: Whether it’s a cozy winter night or a breezy spring evening, this meal fits every mood and occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of what makes this dish sing. Gather these simple ingredients and you’re halfway there:

• Salmon Fillets: Opt for skin-on fillets for that crispy, golden crust. Wild-caught if possible, for best flavor.
• Unsalted Butter: The star of the sauce. It turns nutty and golden when browned—worth the extra minute or two.
• Fresh Lemon Juice & Zest: Adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the butter.
• Garlic: Used in both the brown butter and with the asparagus—don’t hold back.
• Baby Potatoes: Small, waxy potatoes roast beautifully. Cut them in halves for quicker cooking and more surface area for crispiness.
• Fresh Rosemary: Earthy and fragrant, rosemary takes the potatoes to the next level.
• Olive Oil: Helps everything roast to golden perfection. Use a good-quality oil here.
• Asparagus Spears: Trim the woody ends and you’re good to go. Choose medium-thickness spears for even cooking.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out all the flavors—season every layer!

Variations

Want to change things up a bit? Go for it:

• Switch the Herb: Not a fan of rosemary? Thyme or dill both pair beautifully with salmon.
• Add a Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes in the brown butter adds a gentle heat that works wonders.
• Different Veggies: Swap asparagus for green beans, broccolini, or even Brussels sprouts.
• Citrus Swap: Try orange zest and juice for a sweeter spin on the sauce.

How to Make Lemony Brown Butter Salmon and Rosemary Potatoes with Garlic Asparagus

Step 1: Roast the Potatoes

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Toss halved baby potatoes with olive oil, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper on a sheet pan. Roast for about 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy on the edges and fork-tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

While the potatoes roast, pat the salmon fillets dry and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Brown Butter

In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it starts to foam, swirl the pan gently. After 2–3 minutes, the butter will turn golden and smell nutty. Immediately add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, then remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice and zest. Set aside.

Step 4: Roast the Salmon and Asparagus

On a second sheet pan, place the salmon skin-side down and scatter trimmed asparagus around it. Drizzle both with olive oil and season well. Spoon a bit of the brown butter over each salmon fillet. Roast for 10–12 minutes until the salmon is flaky and the asparagus is tender.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Remove everything from the oven. Spoon more brown butter over the salmon just before serving. Plate it with a generous helping of rosemary potatoes and a pile of garlicky asparagus.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Room Temperature Salmon: Helps it cook more evenly and prevents the dreaded white albumin.
• Don’t Burn the Butter: Watch it closely—it goes from browned to burnt fast. The moment it turns golden and smells nutty, pull it off the heat.
• Cut the Potatoes Evenly: Smaller pieces roast faster and more uniformly, giving you the best crispy results.
• Layer the Garlic: Add garlic to the butter and the asparagus—it gives a lovely cohesive flavor without overwhelming.

How to Serve

This dish shines on its own, but here are a few ideas to round it out:

Light Side Salad

A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette works beautifully to balance the richness of the salmon.

Bread on the Side

A slice of rustic sourdough or warm dinner rolls helps soak up every drop of that brown butter.

Wine Pairing

A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay makes the perfect companion to the lemony salmon.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The potatoes and asparagus reheat well, and the salmon stays surprisingly tender.

Freezing

Not ideal for asparagus, but the salmon and potatoes can be frozen separately. Wrap tightly and use within 1 month.

Reheating

Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that crispy skin and roasted texture.

FAQs

Can I make the brown butter in advance?

Absolutely. You can prepare the brown butter sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just warm it gently before drizzling it over the salmon.

Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Yes, just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to ensure crisp edges and even roasting.

What if I don’t have fresh rosemary?

Dried rosemary works in a pinch—use about a third of the amount since it’s more concentrated. Or try fresh thyme for a slightly different, but equally delicious, flavor.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

It should flake easily with a fork and be opaque throughout. Internal temperature should reach 145°F. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist.

Final Thoughts

This Lemony Brown Butter Salmon with Rosemary Potatoes and Garlic Asparagus is the kind of dish that makes you feel like a kitchen rockstar with minimal effort. It’s fresh, vibrant, and full of rich, comforting flavors. Whether you’re cooking for one or impressing a dinner guest, this recipe delivers every time. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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