Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this dish, you’ll need a handful of fresh ingredients and some pantry staples. Let’s break it down:

For the Salmon:

• Salmon Fillets: 4 fillets (about 1 pound total), preferably skin-on for extra flavor.
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon, for a smoky undertone.
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon, enhancing the savory flavors.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, balancing the spices.
• Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon, to brighten and cut through the richness.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, helping the spices adhere while keeping the salmon moist.

For the Cheesy Asparagus:

• Asparagus: 1 bunch, trimmed to remove tough ends.
• Mozzarella Cheese: ½ cup, shredded for a creamy, melty topping.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, ensuring the flavors are balanced.
• Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon, for a subtle kick of flavor.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, to coat the asparagus evenly.

For the Garlic Herb Potatoes:

• Baby Potatoes: 1 pound, halved for faster cooking and crispy edges.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted for richness.
• Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped for garnish and a fresh, herbal note.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced to infuse the potatoes with bold flavor.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, enhancing the dish’s savory profile.

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Step-by-Step Directions

This recipe comes together effortlessly with a few simple steps. The key is roasting everything to perfection at the right temperature and timing.

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat fully. This ensures even cooking for the salmon, asparagus, and potatoes.

2. Season the Salmon

• Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to help the seasonings stick.
• Rub the fillets with olive oil, then sprinkle them generously with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Finish with a drizzle of lemon juice for brightness and acidity.
• Arrange the fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.

3. Prepare the Asparagus

• Trim the woody ends off the asparagus and place them in a mixing bowl.
• Toss with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
• Lay the asparagus next to the salmon on the same baking sheet.
• Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the asparagus for a luscious, creamy finish.

4. Toss the Potatoes

• In a large bowl, combine the baby potatoes, melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
• Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a separate baking sheet, ensuring they have plenty of space to crisp up.

5. Roast Everything

• Place both baking sheets in the oven. Roast the salmon and asparagus for 15-18 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the cheese on the asparagus is golden and bubbly.
• Roast the potatoes for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking to achieve even browning.

6. Serve and Garnish

• Plate the roasted salmon with the cheesy asparagus and garlic herb potatoes.
• Sprinkle the potatoes with fresh parsley for a burst of color and herby freshness.
• Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious creation!

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Expert Tips for the Best Results

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh salmon, firm asparagus, and golden baby potatoes will elevate your dish.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the spices or salt—seasoning makes all the difference.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked salmon, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
• Line Your Baking Sheets: Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Flip the Potatoes: Turning them halfway through ensures crispy edges on all sides.

Customizations and Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so feel free to get creative:

For a Mediterranean Twist

• Swap paprika for a mix of oregano, thyme, and lemon zest.
• Add sliced cherry tomatoes and olives to the asparagus for extra flavor.

Make It Keto-Friendly

• Substitute the potatoes with roasted cauliflower or steamed zucchini noodles.

Add Some Heat

• Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes over the salmon for a spicy kick.

Try Different Cheeses

• Replace mozzarella with Parmesan or Gruyère for a nuttier, more complex flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a few extras for a more elaborate spread:

• A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
• A side of buttered rice or quinoa for extra carbs.
• A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon slices for a refreshing beverage.

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Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:

• Calories: ~550
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 32g

This meal is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, making it as nourishing as it is delicious.