Mediterranean Insanely Delicious Grilled Salmon with Garlic Butter Baby Potatoes &Asparagus
This stunning Mediterranean-style meal is everything you want: perfectly grilled salmon, golden baby potatoes tossed in garlic butter, and tender asparagus — all infused with fresh herbs and lemon. It’s healthy, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful. Ideal for dinner parties or a nourishing weeknight treat.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Grilled Salmon:
4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp smoked paprika
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Lemon slices, for grilling or garnish
For the Garlic Butter Baby Potatoes:
1 lb baby potatoes, halved
2 tbsp butter
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
For the Asparagus:
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: squeeze of lemon juice or zest
Instructions
Prep the Potatoes:
Boil halved baby potatoes in salted water for 10–12 minutes until fork-tender.
Drain and toss in a skillet with butter, garlic, salt, pepper, and parsley. Sauté until golden and coated. Set aside.
Season the Salmon:
In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Brush over salmon fillets and let marinate for 10 minutes.
Grill the Salmon:
Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates.
Grill salmon skin-side down for 4–5 minutes, then flip and grill for another 3–4 minutes until cooked through.
Add lemon slices to the grill for garnish if desired.
Sauté or Grill Asparagus:
Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Grill or sauté for 4–5 minutes until tender-crisp. Finish with a squeeze of lemon if desired.
Plate and Serve:
Serve grilled salmon alongside garlic butter potatoes and asparagus. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
Tips
Use Fresh Salmon for Best Flavor:
Fresh, high-quality salmon fillets give the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before grilling.
Prevent Sticking:
Make sure your grill or grill pan is well-oiled and preheated before adding the salmon. Don’t move it too soon — let it naturally release after searing.
Boil Potatoes Before Sautéing:
Boiling ensures tenderness inside while sautéing in garlic butter creates a crispy, flavorful exterior.
Trim Asparagus Properly:
Snap or trim the woody ends off asparagus for the best texture and taste.
Use a Meat Thermometer:
Salmon is done at 145°F (63°C). Use a thermometer for perfect results, especially when grilling thicker fillets.
Add Lemon Toward the End:
A fresh squeeze of lemon right before serving brightens the dish without overpowering the other flavors.
Variations
Dairy-Free Option:
Swap the butter with olive oil or a plant-based alternative to make the dish dairy-free.
Herb Swaps:
Try rosemary, thyme, basil, or dill instead of parsley for different flavor profiles.
Add Mediterranean Toppings:
Sprinkle crumbled feta, sliced Kalamata olives, or sun-dried tomatoes over the potatoes or asparagus for a bolder Mediterranean flair.
Alternate Vegetables:
Substitute asparagus with zucchini, green beans, or bell peppers — whatever’s in season or in your fridge.
Spicy Kick:
Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the garlic butter or salmon marinade for some heat.
Baked Version:
Roast everything on a single sheet pan in the oven for an easier cleanup. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes.
Crispier Potatoes:
After boiling, let the potatoes dry completely before pan-frying. A dry surface = crispier texture!
Q&A
Q: Can I bake the salmon instead of grilling?
A: Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes or until cooked through.
Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: Thaw it completely and pat dry before seasoning and grilling.
Q: How do I know the salmon is done?
A: It should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes, but the salmon is best fresh. Potatoes and asparagus can be reheated gently.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
Calories: 520
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fat: 30g
Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 2g
Sodium: 420mg
Conclusion
Mediterranean Grilled Salmon with Garlic Butter Baby Potatoes & Asparagus is a wholesome, vibrant dish packed with good fats, lean protein, and colorful veggies. It’s easy enough for weeknights but elegant enough to serve guests. Whether you’re eating clean or just craving a hearty, delicious meal, this recipe delivers pure Mediterranean comfort with every bite.