Under the Grill 20Minute LemonHerb Broiled Salmon with Crispy Asparagus

Quick Broiled Lemon Salmon

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Preparation time:10 Mins

Cooking time:12 Mins

Servings:4 servings

Ingredients:

• 4 Salmon Fillets (about 6 oz / 170g each, skin on or off)
• 3 Tbsp (45ml) Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2 Tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
• 1 Tbsp Fresh Dill, finely chopped
• 1 tsp Dijon Mustard
• 1/2 tsp Sea Salt
• 1/4 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
• Pinch of smoked paprika
• 1 lb (450g) Asparagus, tough ends snapped off
• 1 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for asparagus)
• 1/4 tsp Sea Salt (for asparagus)
• Freshly ground Black Pepper (for asparagus)
• Lemon wedges, for garnish
• Extra fresh dill sprigs, for garnish

Instructions:

• Set your oven rack to the second-highest position (about 4-5 inches from the broiler element) and preheat the broiler to high. Line a sturdy baking sheet with parchment or foil.
• Toss the trimmed asparagus spears on one side of the prepared baking sheet with 1 Tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
• In a small bowl, combine the 3 Tbsp olive oil, lemon juice, chopped dill, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and paprika. Whisk well until slightly emulsified.
• Pat the salmon fillets thoroughly dry with kitchen paper. Place them skin-side down (if applicable) on the other side of the baking sheet, leaving space between them and the asparagus. Brush or spoon the marinade evenly over the top surface of the salmon.
• Place the baking sheet under the hot broiler. Cook for 8–12 minutes, checking carefully after 6 minutes. The salmon is done when it flakes easily and is opaque throughout (145°F/63°C).
• Carefully remove the sheet pan from the oven. Let the salmon rest for 2 minutes. Serve immediately with the roasted asparagus and a fresh squeeze of lemon.

Nutrition Facts

Calories	1602 kcal
Protein	10.5 g
Fat	26.9 g
Carbs	48.3 g
Fiber	18.3 g
Sodium	670 mg

Recipe Info

Category	Main Course
Cuisine	Modern British

The Magic of High-Heat Broiling for Weeknight Feasts

There is something truly satisfying about cooking with intense, direct heat. While many home cooks default to the gentle convection of baking when preparing fish, the method of high-heat broiling transforms even the most humble salmon fillet into a luxurious centerpiece. Broiling utilizes the top heating element in your oven, mimicking the charring power of an outdoor grill but delivering that searing capability right in your kitchen. This technique is the secret weapon for crafting a magnificent Broiled Salmon Dinner —one that delivers a wonderfully crisp exterior texture while keeping the interior moist, flaky, and utterly succulent. It’s speed married with sophistication, making it an ideal candidate for those evenings when time is short but flavour cannot be compromised.

Why This Broiled Salmon Dinner Outperforms Traditional Baking

When it comes to fish, the goal is often a quick cook time to prevent the muscle proteins from tightening up and becoming dry. Traditional baking, while consistent, requires a longer exposure to heat. Our Easy Broiled Salmon Recipe , however, leverages aggressive top-down heat to drastically shorten the cooking window. This immediacy locks in moisture and enhances surface texture in a way that baking simply cannot replicate efficiently. This approach is the cornerstone of a genuine Quick Broiled Salmon experience.

Achieving That Perfect Seared Crust Without the Fuss

The defining characteristic of this preparation is the resulting texture contrast. By placing the salmon mere inches beneath the heat source, the surface sugars and oils caramelize rapidly. This creates a thin, flavourful shell—almost a Crispy Skin Salmon effect, even if the skin is removed—that yields beautifully to the tender flesh beneath. It’s an all-encompassing textural reward achieved without the mess or smoke associated with pan-searing.

Setting the Stage: A Speedy, Bright Flavour Profile

To complement the powerful cooking method, we employ a flavour profile that is clean and vibrant. This Lemon Salmon Dinner hinges on fresh herbs and sharp citrus, cutting through the richness of the fish. We’re using a zesty combination of fresh dill, bright lemon juice, and a touch of Dijon mustard, which acts as a slight emufier and seasoning binder. This marinade is designed not just to flavour, but to stand up to the intense heat without burning away entirely.

Elevating Tuesday Night: The 20-Minute Promise

One of the most compelling arguments for this method is efficiency. With just 10 minutes of active preparation—trimming vegetables and whisking a marinade—and roughly 10 to 12 minutes under the broiler, you are looking at a complete, elegant Weeknight Salmon Dinner on the table in under half an hour. This makes it a reliable choice when you’re looking for fresh, healthy Salmon Dinner Ideas without extensive planning.

Essential Components for Your Luminous Salmon Plate

To execute this streamlined dish—"Under the Grill: 20-Minute Lemon-Herb Broiled Salmon with Crispy Asparagus"—we focus on high-quality core ingredients that cook predictably under direct heat. For four servings, we source four robust salmon fillets, approximately 6 ounces each, ensuring they are of uniform thickness for even cooking.

The accompanying vegetable must also thrive under similar, quick-cooking conditions, leading us directly to asparagus.

Gathering the Brightest Herbs and Citrus Accents

The flavour architecture of this dish relies on balancing richness with acidity. We need elements that amplify the natural flavour of the fish without overpowering it, which is why freshness in the herbs is paramount.

The Core Trio: Quality Salmon Fillets and Asparagus Prep

Start by selecting your salmon. Whether skin-on or off is purely preference, but ensure the fillets are thick enough to withstand the brief blast of heat without drying out. Simultaneously, prepare about one pound of fresh asparagus. The key here is snapping off the woody ends; the remaining tender stalks are perfectly suited to roast alongside the fish.

Crafting the Zesty Garlic-Herb Marinade Base

In a small bowl, we create our glaze. This involves whisking together three tablespoons of high-quality extra virgin olive oil with the juice of one fresh lemon—about two tablespoons—to provide that essential acidic backbone. We then fold in one tablespoon of finely chopped fresh dill, which contributes an aromatic, slightly anise-like freshness.

To bind the flavour and add a subtle tang, one teaspoon of Dijon mustard is incorporated, seasoned simply with sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a small pinch of smoked paprika for a hint of warm colour.

Necessary Kitchen Gear for Optimal Broiler Performance

Success in high-heat cooking demands the right setup. You will need a sturdy, rimmed baking sheet, which will hold both the fish and the vegetables. For cleanup, lining this sheet with parchment paper or aluminium foil is highly recommended, as it prevents any sticky glaze residue from adhering.

A small whisk for blending the marinade and a basting brush (though spooning the marinade works too) complete the modest list of required tools.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Mastering the Broiler

The entire cooking process revolves around precision positioning and vigilant monitoring. Understanding the mechanics of the broiler is the key to perfecting the Broiled Salmon Recipe .

Sequencing the Salmon and Vegetable Cook Times

Since we are aiming for a one-pan approach, we must account for the slight differences in how salmon and asparagus absorb heat. While both cook quickly, the salmon needs the most direct heat application.

Prepping the Tray: Lining Up for Easy Cleanup

First, position your oven rack to the second-highest setting—this generally places the food about four to five inches away from the heating element. Preheat the broiler to high. Line your baking sheet and place the trimmed asparagus spears on one half, tossed lightly with a small amount of olive oil and seasoning.

The salmon fillets are placed on the opposite half, ensuring there is sufficient breathing room between the fish and the greens.

Applying the Herb Glaze: Ensuring Maximum Flavour Absorption

Before the salmon heads into the heat, pat the surfaces completely dry with a paper towel. This seemingly minor step is critical for achieving a superior crust. Once dry, generously brush or spoon the zesty lemon-herb marinade evenly over the top surface of each fillet.

The Critical Broiling Distance: Avoiding Burnout While Cooking Through

Place the prepared sheet tray directly under the broiler. The high heat will immediately begin searing the top layer of the fish. Keep a close watch after the first five minutes. Broiling is intense; unlike convection baking, which cooks from all sides, this direct radiation cooks from the top down, meaning speed is paramount.

Checking for Doneness: Visual Cues for Flaky Perfection

The total cook time is estimated between 8 and 12 minutes, but checking at the 6-minute mark is essential. The salmon is ready when the exterior is beautifully browned and the flesh flakes easily when gently pressed with a fork. If you are using a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 145° F ( 63° C). Simultaneously, the asparagus should emerge tender-crisp with just a few charred spots.

Troubleshooting Common Broiling Pitfalls

The number one issue home cooks face with broiling is scorching the exterior before the interior is cooked. If you notice the marinade or the edges of the fish browning too quickly—say, within the first four minutes—immediately move the oven rack down one notch.

This small adjustment in distance provides the necessary buffer to allow the heat to penetrate the centre of the fish without incinerating the surface. Another common mistake is overcrowding the pan; ensure there is space around the fillets so the heat can circulate evenly around them.

Creative Twists to Personalize Your Broiled Salmon Dinner

While this classic preparation is superb on its own, adapting the profile allows you to integrate this quick method into any culinary mood.

Quick Tips for Storing Leftover Broiled Fish

If you do happen to have leftovers from your Broiled Salmon Dinner , the key is airtight storage. Cool the fish completely before sealing it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days and is excellent flaked over a salad the next day. Avoid reheating in the microwave, which can quickly dry out the cooked fish; instead, gently reheat in a pan with a teaspoon of water or broth, or enjoy cold.

Ingredient Swaps: Choosing Alternative Green Vegetables

If asparagus isn't in season or available, many other vegetables lend themselves well to this one-pan strategy. Thinly sliced broccoli florets or trimmed snap peas, tossed with the same oil and salt mixture, cook beautifully alongside the fish. For something heartier, thin slices of zucchini or bell peppers are also excellent What Sides Go With Broiled Salmon substitutes.

Nutritional Snapshot: A Light yet Satisfying Meal Profile

This entire preparation is remarkably healthy. Salmon provides essential omega-3 fatty acids, while the preparation method requires minimal added fat, relying mostly on the flavourful olive oil in the marinade.

Paired with a simple green vegetable, this yields a meal rich in protein and healthy fats, keeping you satisfied without feeling weighed down—a perfect profile for any light yet satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions to Complete Your Elegant Broiled Salmon Dinner

To fully round out this elegant plate, consider what will balance the bright, herbaceous flavour of the fish. A base of fluffy quinoa or fluffy couscous is ideal for soaking up any residual lemon-dill juices. Alternatively, for a low-carb option, a simple side of wild rice pilaf or a creamy dollop of garlic aioli drizzled lightly over the top will elevate the experience further, ensuring this Lemon Salmon Dinner feels truly restaurant-quality.