Keto Garlic Butter Salmon & Asparagus: The Meal You’ll Make on Repeat

You want a meal that’s stupidly easy, tastes like a fancy restaurant dish, and fits your keto macros? Stop scrolling. This garlic butter salmon with asparagus is the answer.

It’s ready in 20 minutes, requires zero chef skills, and will make you question why you ever ordered takeout. The salmon is buttery and flaky, the asparagus is crisp-tender, and the garlic butter sauce? Let’s just say you’ll lick the plate.

No exaggeration.

Why This Recipe Works

First, it’s keto-friendly without tasting like “diet food.” Salmon packs healthy fats and protein, while asparagus keeps carbs low. The garlic butter sauce? Pure magic—rich, savory, and just enough to make everything irresistible.

Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, meaning fewer dishes and more time for, well, anything else.

And let’s talk flavor contrast. The salmon’s richness balances the asparagus’s slight bitterness, and the garlic butter ties it all together. Even picky eaters won’t complain.

Unless they hate delicious food—then that’s on them.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
• 1 bunch asparagus (ends trimmed)
• 3 tbsp butter (grass-fed if you’re fancy)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced, or 1 tbsp if you’re lazy and use pre-minced)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 lemon (juiced, because acidity is life)
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat lovers)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the salmon: Pat the fillets dry with a paper towel. Season with salt and pepper. This step is non-negotiable—soggy salmon is sad salmon.
2. Cook the asparagus: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high.

   Add asparagus, season with a pinch of salt, and cook for 3–4 minutes until bright green but still crisp. Remove and set aside.

3. Sear the salmon: In the same skillet, add butter. Once melted, place salmon fillets in the pan.

   Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden and flaky. Don’t poke it constantly—let it do its thing.

4. Make the sauce: Push salmon to one side, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the butter. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

   Squeeze lemon juice over everything.

5. Combine and serve: Return asparagus to the skillet, toss in the garlic butter, and cook for another minute. Plate and drizzle with any remaining sauce. Boom.

   Done.

Storage Instructions

Got leftovers? (Unlikely, but okay.) Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet—microwaving salmon is a crime. The asparagus might soften, but it’ll still taste good.

Benefits of This Recipe

Beyond being delicious, this meal is nutrient-dense.

Salmon delivers omega-3s for brain health, while asparagus is loaded with fiber and vitamins A, C, and K. The healthy fats from butter and olive oil keep you full and support ketosis. And did we mention it’s low-carb?

Yeah, you’re welcome.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the salmon: It’s done when it flakes easily with a fork. Any longer, and it’s dry. Trust the process.
• Skipping the pat-dry step: Moisture = steamed salmon, not seared.

  Texture matters.

• Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks fast. If it turns brown, it’s bitter. Stir constantly.

Alternatives

Not a salmon fan?

Swap in chicken thighs or shrimp. Vegetarian? Try cauliflower steaks or halloumi cheese.

Out of asparagus? Zucchini or green beans work too. The garlic butter sauce is the star—everything else is negotiable.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, but thaw it completely first. Cooking frozen salmon straight from the freezer ruins the texture.

Pat it dry extra well—it’ll release more water.

What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

Garlic powder works in a pinch (1/2 tsp), but fresh is better. IMO, it’s worth the extra effort.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Nope. But you can substitute butter with ghee or coconut oil if you’re avoiding dairy.

The flavor changes, but it’s still tasty.

Can I meal prep this?

Absolutely. Cook as directed, let it cool, and store in meal prep containers. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the salmon.

Final Thoughts

This keto garlic butter salmon and asparagus is the kind of meal you’ll make weekly.

It’s fast, flavorful, and foolproof. Plus, it’s healthy without tasting like cardboard. Win-win.

Now go cook it—your taste buds (and your macros) will thank you.