The GARLIC HERB SALMON WITH ASPARAGUS AND POTATOES is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the rich flavors of salmon with fresh asparagus and tender potatoes, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, this dish stands out for its vibrant colors and delicious taste.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Garlic Herb Salmon:
- For the Asparagus and Potatoes:
- For the Rich Basil Pesto Cream Drizzle:
- For the Light Alfredo Sauce (Optional Base):
- How to Make GARLIC HERB SALMON WITH ASPARAGUS AND POTATOES
- Step 1: Prepare the Asparagus and Potatoes
- Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Herb Salmon
- Step 3: Prepare the Rich Basil Pesto Cream Drizzle
- Step 4: (Optional) Prepare the Light Alfredo Sauce
- Step 5: Assemble & Serve
- How to Serve GARLIC HERB SALMON WITH ASPARAGUS AND POTATOES
- On a Bed of Greens
- With Lemon Wedges
- Accompanied by Crusty Bread
- Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Alongside a Colorful Salad
- With a Creamy Dip
- How to Perfect GARLIC HERB SALMON WITH ASPARAGUS AND POTATOES
- Best Side Dishes for GARLIC HERB SALMON WITH ASPARAGUS AND POTATOES
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing GARLIC HERB SALMON WITH ASPARAGUS AND POTATOES
- Reheating GARLIC HERB SALMON WITH ASPARAGUS AND POTATOES
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen salmon?
- What can I substitute for asparagus?
- How do I know when the salmon is done?
- Can I make garlic herb salmon without oil?
- How do I customize the flavors?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids from salmon and essential vitamins from asparagus.
- Versatile Dish: Easily adaptable to various dietary preferences by adjusting sauces or side ingredients.
- Flavorful Combos: The garlic herb seasoning elevates the salmon while the pesto cream adds a gourmet touch.
- Stunning Presentation: A visually appealing plate that impresses guests without requiring advanced cooking skills.
Tools and Preparation
To create this flavorful dish, you’ll need some essential tools that make cooking easier and more efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Food processor or blender
- Small saucepan
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Ideal for roasting vegetables evenly, ensuring they cook to perfection.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly, especially for marinades and dressings.
- Food processor or blender: Makes preparing sauces quick and easy by blending ingredients to a smooth consistency.
- Small saucepan: Useful for simmering sauces without taking up too much space on the stove.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Herb Salmon:
- 2 (6-8 oz) salmon fillets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- Salt & freshly cracked black pepper to taste
For the Asparagus and Potatoes:
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional, for roasting)
- Salt & freshly cracked black pepper to taste
For the Rich Basil Pesto Cream Drizzle:
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- Salt & freshly cracked black pepper to taste
For the Light Alfredo Sauce (Optional Base):
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & freshly cracked black pepper to taste
How to Make GARLIC HERB SALMON WITH ASPARAGUS AND POTATOES
Step 1: Prepare the Asparagus and Potatoes
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Toss potato pieces with 1 tbsp olive oil, minced garlic (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes.
- Add asparagus to the baking sheet (tossed with remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper) and roast for another 10-15 minutes until potatoes are tender and asparagus is tender-crisp.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Herb Salmon
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, dill, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the mixture over the salmon fillets.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and flaky. Alternatively, cook skin-side down in a skillet for 5-7 minutes until crispy; then flip and cook for another 3-5 minutes until cooked through.
Step 3: Prepare the Rich Basil Pesto Cream Drizzle
- In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and olive oil.
- Blend until smooth.
- Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: (Optional) Prepare the Light Alfredo Sauce
- Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth; season with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Assemble & Serve
- Arrange roasted asparagus and potatoes on plates.
- Top with garlic herb salmon.
- If using, drizzle light Alfredo sauce over vegetables and salmon.
- Finish with a generous drizzle of rich basil pesto cream.
This dish serves approximately 2-3 people with around 520 calories per serving—a healthy yet indulgent option your family will love!
How to Serve GARLIC HERB SALMON WITH ASPARAGUS AND POTATOES
Serving Garlic Herb Salmon with Asparagus and Potatoes is all about presentation and pairing. This dish not only tastes delightful but also looks visually appealing on the plate. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
On a Bed of Greens
- Use fresh mixed greens or arugula as a base for the salmon. The peppery flavor complements the richness of the salmon and adds freshness.
With Lemon Wedges
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over the salmon. The acidity brightens the flavors and adds a zesty touch.
Accompanied by Crusty Bread
- Pair this dish with slices of crusty bread or a baguette. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce or drizzles.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle additional fresh herbs, like parsley or dill, over the top before serving. This adds color and enhances the herbaceous notes of the dish.
Alongside a Colorful Salad
- A simple salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and balsamic vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm salmon and vegetables.
With a Creamy Dip
- Consider adding a small bowl of yogurt or tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping. It offers a cool, creamy element that pairs well with the warm meal.
How to Perfect GARLIC HERB SALMON WITH ASPARAGUS AND POTATOES
Achieving perfection with your Garlic Herb Salmon with Asparagus and Potatoes relies on careful preparation and attention to details. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality salmon will significantly enhance flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on your salmon while it cooks; it should be flaky but still moist.
- Season Generously: Salt and pepper are key; don’t be afraid to season your vegetables well before roasting.
- Experiment with Cooking Methods: Try grilling or pan-searing for different textures in your salmon.
- Preheat Your Oven Properly: Ensuring your oven is at the right temperature will help achieve even cooking for both the potatoes and asparagus.
- Add Variety: Mix in other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added color and nutrition.
Best Side Dishes for GARLIC HERB SALMON WITH ASPARAGUS AND POTATOES
Pairing side dishes with your Garlic Herb Salmon with Asparagus and Potatoes can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some excellent options:
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette provides a healthy grain option.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring a sweet yet earthy flavor that complements salmon well.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overwhelming flavors.
- Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs makes for a quick and flavorful side that pairs nicely.
- Ratatouille: A medley of roasted vegetables offers rustic charm alongside your main dish.
- Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: For a creamy side that’s lower in carbs, garlic mashed cauliflower is an excellent alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
- Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles add freshness without heaviness, making them an ideal accompaniment.
- Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with herbs can soak up any sauce beautifully while keeping it simple.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing garlic herb salmon with asparagus and potatoes, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Bold flavors: Using too much garlic can overpower the dish. Stick to the recipe for the right balance.
- Incorrect cooking times: Overcooking salmon can make it dry. Use a timer and check for flakiness.
- Not seasoning properly: Skipping salt and pepper can result in bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Ignoring vegetable size: Cutting asparagus or potatoes unevenly leads to inconsistent cooking. Aim for similar sizes for even roasting.
- Forgetting about sauce options: Not including a drizzle of pesto or Alfredo might leave your dish lacking richness. Experiment with sauces to enhance flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 2-3 days for best quality.
Freezing GARLIC HERB SALMON WITH ASPARAGUS AND POTATOES
- Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating GARLIC HERB SALMON WITH ASPARAGUS AND POTATOES
- Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and reheat covered for about 15 minutes, ensuring even heating.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until heated, which helps retain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making garlic herb salmon with asparagus and potatoes.
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
What can I substitute for asparagus?
If you don’t have asparagus, try green beans or broccoli as great alternatives that roast well.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
Salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F).
Can I make garlic herb salmon without oil?
You can use a non-stick cooking spray or broth if you want to avoid oil; however, this may affect the flavor slightly.
How do I customize the flavors?
Feel free to add other herbs like rosemary or oregano, or include lemon zest for a citrus twist!
Final Thoughts
Garlic herb salmon with asparagus and potatoes is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize this dish by adding different vegetables or sauces according to your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for dinner any night of the week!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Garlic Herb Salmon with Asparagus and Potatoes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 2-3 people 1x
Description
Garlic Herb Salmon with Asparagus and Potatoes is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of tender salmon, fresh asparagus, and perfectly roasted Yukon Gold potatoes. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, offering a nutritious meal that pleases both the palate and the eye. The garlic herb seasoning enhances the salmon while a drizzle of basil pesto cream adds a gourmet touch, making this dish as impressive as it is delicious. With vibrant colors and satisfying textures, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 (6-8 oz) salmon fillets
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- Salt & freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss potato pieces with 1 tbsp olive oil, minced garlic (if using), salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes.
- Add asparagus to the baking sheet with remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper; roast for another 10-15 minutes until tender.
- Mix olive oil, minced garlic, dill, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl; rub over salmon fillets. Bake for 12-15 minutes until flaky.
- Blend basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, olive oil in a food processor until smooth; stir in heavy cream and season to taste.
- Serve roasted vegetables topped with salmon and drizzled with basil pesto cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/3 of the dish (approximately 520g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg