Description
Salmon with Roasted Potatoes and Cheesy Asparagus
This flavorful dish combines perfectly roasted salmon, crispy potatoes, and tender asparagus topped with melted cheese. It’s a complete, healthy meal that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients:
2 salmon fillets
1 lb baby potatoes, halved
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the potatoes: Place the halved baby potatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss to coat evenly, then roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
Prepare the asparagus: While the potatoes are roasting, arrange the asparagus on a separate baking sheet. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, until tender.
Prepare the salmon: Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Place the salmon on the baking sheet with the asparagus during the last 10 minutes of roasting.
Make the cheesy topping for the asparagus: Once the asparagus is roasted, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Return to the oven for 5 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Plate the roasted potatoes, cheesy asparagus, and salmon fillets. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Enjoy!
This salmon with roasted potatoes and cheesy asparagus is the perfect combination of flavors and textures—crispy, savory, and cheesy all in one dish!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect timing and results. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet, toss halved baby potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Spread them in a single layer and roast for 20 minutes. While they roast, trim the woody ends from your asparagus. After the potatoes have roasted for 20 minutes, push them to one side of the sheet. Add the asparagus to the other side, drizzle with oil, season, and return to the oven for 10 minutes. Now, season your salmon fillets. After the asparagus has roasted for 10 minutes, move the vegetables to create space and add the salmon to the same sheet. Roast everything together for 10-12 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily. Finally, sprinkle the cheeses over the asparagus only and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this meal family-style on a large platter for a beautiful presentation. A squeeze of fresh lemon over the salmon brightens the entire dish. For a complete dinner, pair it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. If you have guests, a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the rich salmon and cheese perfectly.
How-to Summary
This complete meal is prepared on two baking sheets for efficiency. Roast seasoned potatoes for 20 minutes first. Add asparagus to the same pan and roast for 10 more minutes. Finally, add salmon to the sheet and roast everything together for 10-12 minutes. Top the asparagus with mozzarella and Parmesan, then broil briefly until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes, firm white fish like cod or halibut work well. Adjust cooking time slightly, as thinner fillets may cook faster than salmon.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). It will be opaque throughout.
Can I prepare any components ahead of time?
You can wash and cut the potatoes and trim the asparagus up to a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
My potatoes aren’t crispy. What went wrong?
Ensure they are in a single layer with space between them. Overcrowding causes steaming. Also, preheating your baking sheet can help achieve a crispier exterior.
What can I substitute for mozzarella?
Gruyère, fontina, or a sharp cheddar are excellent melting cheeses that would create a deliciously different flavor profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: This is the top reason for soggy potatoes and steamed asparagus. Use two sheets if necessary.
- Underseasoning: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper. Season each component (potatoes, asparagus, salmon) individually for layered flavor.
- Overcooking the Salmon: Adding it in the final 10-12 minutes is crucial. Overcooked salmon becomes dry and chalky.
- Skipping the Broil: Simply melting the cheese is not enough. A quick broil adds essential color and flavor to the cheesy topping.
Conclusion
This recipe for Salmon with Roasted Potatoes and Cheesy Asparagus is a testament to how simple techniques can yield an impressive, restaurant-quality meal. By mastering the timing and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a dish that is harmoniously crispy, tender, and richly flavorful. It’s a reliable, healthy, and utterly delicious dinner that is sure to become a regular in your weekly rotation.