Home / Recipes / Healthy / Grilled Salmon with Asparagus

Grilled Salmon with Asparagus

This is my favorite quick, healthy dinner when I want something light but satisfying. The salmon comes out perfectly flaky with a nice char, and the asparagus gets slightly crispy at the tips. A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens everything up. It feels fancy but takes less time than ordering takeout.

Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
15 min
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4

By David Thompson

Published: February 2, 2026 | Last Updated: February 7, 2026

Grilled salmon fillet with roasted asparagus

Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on
  • 1 pound asparagus, woody ends trimmed
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Fresh dill for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If using oven, preheat to 425°F.
  2. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
  3. Toss asparagus with remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
  4. Place salmon skin-side down on the grill. Add asparagus to the grill alongside the salmon.
  5. Cook salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, flipping once. The fish should flake easily with a fork when done (internal temp 145°F).
  6. Turn asparagus occasionally, cooking for about 8-10 minutes total until tender and slightly charred.
  7. Remove from grill and squeeze fresh lemon juice over both salmon and asparagus.
  8. Garnish with fresh dill if desired and serve immediately with extra lemon wedges.

Tips & Variations

Oven method: Bake salmon and asparagus on a sheet pan at 425°F for 12-15 minutes.

Crispy skin: Start salmon skin-side down and don't flip until it releases easily from the grill.

Flavor boost: Try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary, or a drizzle of honey and Dijon mustard.

Sides: Serve with quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.

Nutrition Information

Per serving

NutrientAmount
Calories320
Total Fat18g
Carbohydrates6g
Protein34g
Omega-32.5g

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when salmon is cooked?

The salmon should be opaque throughout and flake easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F. It's okay if the center is slightly translucent pink - that means it's perfectly moist.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes! Just thaw it completely in the fridge overnight first. Pat it very dry before cooking to get a good sear.

What if I don't have a grill?

No problem! Use the oven method or cook the salmon in a hot skillet. You'll still get great results.

How do I trim asparagus?

Hold each spear and bend it gently - it will naturally snap at the point where the woody part ends. You can also just cut off the bottom 1-2 inches.