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Easy Crispy Sheet Pan Keto Salmon and Asparagus Recipe for Perfect Low-Carb Dinner

crispy sheet pan keto salmon - featured image

A quick and easy keto-friendly sheet pan recipe featuring crispy salmon with tender asparagus, perfect for a low-carb dinner in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

  • Salmon fillets (skin-on, about 6 ounces / 170 grams each)
  • Fresh asparagus spears (about 1 pound / 450 grams)
  • Extra virgin olive oil (3 tablespoons)
  • Garlic cloves (3, minced)
  • Lemon zest and juice (from 1 lemon)
  • Sea salt (to taste)
  • Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
  • Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon, optional)
  • Red pepper flakes (a pinch, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Rinse and trim the woody ends off about 1 pound (450 grams) of fresh asparagus. Pat dry thoroughly.
  3. Toss asparagus in a mixing bowl with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1 minced garlic clove, a pinch of sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Set aside.
  4. Pat dry the skin-on salmon fillets (6 ounces / 170 grams each), then rub with 1 tablespoon olive oil, remaining minced garlic, lemon zest, and smoked paprika if using. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Line your sheet pan with parchment paper. Spread the asparagus on one side in a single layer. Place salmon fillets skin-side down on the other side, leaving space for even cooking.
  6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness, until salmon skin is golden and crisp and asparagus is tender but still slightly firm.
  7. Remove from oven, squeeze fresh lemon juice over salmon and asparagus, and sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
  8. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pat salmon dry before seasoning to ensure crispy skin. Use high heat (425°F) for best results. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. If salmon skin isn’t crispy enough, broil for 1-2 minutes watching carefully. Remove asparagus earlier if it cooks faster than salmon. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheat gently in the oven to avoid drying out.

Nutrition

Keywords: keto, low-carb, salmon, asparagus, sheet pan, easy dinner, healthy, quick recipe